Features of clinical reasoning in physical rehabilitation

Abstract

The article is devoted to the analysis of the clinical reasoning of specialists in the field of physical rehabilitation, in particular, specialists in physical therapy and occupational therapy. Despite numerous studies, the topic of "formation of clinical thinking" remains insufficiently studied and has its own peculiarities in the field of physical therapy. The key features influencing clinical reasoning in physical rehabilitation are revealed. They include the use of movement as one of the main means of diagnosis, rehabilitation, evaluation of effectiveness, as well as the goals of rehabilitation interventions; focus on patient activity and participation (according to the International Classification of Functioning, ICF); patient mobility; interactivity and multidisciplinarity. The autonomy extend in professional activity has a significant impact on the formation of clinical reasoning of specialists. Conceptually, clinical reasoning in physical rehabilitation may be defined as the combination and interaction of cognitive, affective and psychomotor skills. At the same time, effective clinical reasoning is narrative, adaptive and collaborative, contextual and it utilizes a biopsychosocial approach to the patient.