Physiotherapy: Definition, Scope, Rights & Duties

Understanding Physiotherapy: Definition & Scope

Physiotherapy is the art and science of physical therapy. It encompasses a set of methods, activities, and techniques that, through the application of physical healing, aim to prevent disease, promote health, recover, and readjust individuals affected by somatic dysfunctions or those who wish to maintain an adequate level of health.

Furthermore, physiotherapy includes performing electrical and manual tests necessary to determine the extent of nerve involvement, muscle strength tests to determine functional abilities, measurements of range of joint movement and vital capacity, and diagnostic aids for monitoring progress.

Article 335: Expert Opinion in Legal Context

Article 335. Aim and purpose of expert opinion. Oath or promise to act with objectivity.

When scientific, artistic, technical, or practical knowledge is necessary to assess facts or circumstances relevant to an issue or to gain certainty about them, the parties may introduce the opinion of experts who possess relevant knowledge into the process or request, as provided in this Act, an opinion from an expert appointed by the Court.

In issuing the opinion, every expert must demonstrate, under oath or affirmation to tell the truth, that they have acted and, where appropriate, will act as objectively as possible, taking into consideration both what may favor and what is capable of causing injury to any party. The expert must also be aware of the criminal sanctions that may be incurred if their duty as an expert is breached.

Physiotherapy Professional Rights

• Exercise physiotherapy according to ethical standards and professionalism.
• Participate in collegiate activities, especially assemblies, where they can join and vote.
• Stand as candidates and vote for positions.
• Use the college premises, as regulated, and benefit from the advice, services, programs, and other benefits the college makes available to its members.
• Access college documentation and records, obtain official certification, and receive information on matters of interest related to physiotherapy.
• Refer to their status as a college member and possess the card to prove it.
• Exercise any other rights granted by applicable laws.

Physiotherapy Professional Duties

• Respect and comply with college standards.
• Contribute effectively by fulfilling duly approved responsibilities assigned to them by the Association.
• While practicing the profession, respect ethical principles.
• Inform the College of changes in their personal and professional circumstances.
• Inform the College of facts and circumstances that may affect college life or the exercise of physiotherapy.
• Faithfully exercise the offices to which they were elected, upholding trust, unless prevented by unavoidable causes.
• Participate in assemblies to the extent possible given their circumstances.
• Respect the professional dedication and personal circumstances of other colleagues, especially those in positions of responsibility.