Pathology for the Physical Therapist Assistant, Ch 12 Physical
Therapy Clinical Handbook for PTAs
Slide 3
Discuss anatomic structures and physiologic processes related
to the digestive system. Discuss physical effects of aging on the
body.
Slide 4
Define digestive pathological conditions including signs and
symptoms of each: Carcinomas TMJ Dysfunction from Periodontal
disease Hemorrhoids Cirrhosis of the Liver
Slide 5
Discuss how digestive pathologies can adversely affect function
requiring the modification of treatment intervention to protect the
patient from worsening the condition and optimize treatment
outcomes.
Slide 6
Discuss the modifications and precaution that may be required
for the treatment of patients with digestive disorders. Demonstrate
understanding of the PTAs role in the disease process
Slide 7
Mouth Pharynx Esophagus Stomach Small intestine Large intestine
Anus
Slide 8
Ingestion Propulsion Mechanical digestion Chemical digestion
Absorption Metabolism
Slide 9
Physiologic ChangeFunctional Effect Decreased muscular
elasticityEsophagus and stomach empty more slowly Slowed muscular
contractionsConstipation Bacterial overgrowth more commonDecreased
nutrient and mineral absorption 2010-2011 Merck Sharp & Dohme
Corp., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Whitehouse Station,
N.J., U.S.A.
Slide 10
Description Can occur in the mouth, esophagus, stomach, liver,
pancreas, colon Etiology Various factors including diet, alcohol
use, smoking, increasing age, infection, heredity
Slide 11
Signs and Symptoms Often not seen until disease is in the later
stages Dysphagia, weight loss, pain, nausea, vomiting, indigestion,
change in bowel habits, bleeding Treatment Surgery Chemotherapy
Radiation
Slide 12
Physical therapy may be indicated for strengthening, mobility,
and transfer training for patients both in the hospital after
surgical resections or at home in later disease stages. Speech and
occupational therapy may be involved as well for any speech,
eating, or swallowing difficulties.
Slide 13
Description Impaired functioning of the temporomandibular
articulation of the jaw. Etiology Tooth extractions due to
gingivitis, periodontitis, cavities all lead to jaw imbalances
Arthritis, muscle spasms, clenching of teeth
Slide 14
Signs and Symptoms Pain in face, neck, and jaw, and with
movement of the TMJ (clicking and grinding); headaches Stiff neck
and jaw muscles Treatment Occasionally none indicated Realignment
of bite by dentist, mouth inserts to prevent grinding Heat, NSAIDs,
soft food
Slide 15
For Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Treatment may include
exercises for strengthening and muscle re-education, modalities for
pain relief, relaxation training, and manual therapies for
correction of alignment. The PT or PTA will usually work in
conjunction with a dentist while treating TMJ dysfunction.
Slide 16
Description Veins in the anal or rectal regions that are
dilated and inflamed Etiology Any condition that causes pressure on
veins in the lower rectal area Prolonged sitting, pregnancy and
childbirth, constipation or diarrhea, straining to defecate
Slide 17
Signs and Symptoms Rectal bleeding Tumor-like lesions, itch or
bleed Treatment Stool softeners, avoidance of straining during
defecation, diet high in fiber Warm sitz baths, topical anesthetics
for pain Medical procedures to remove
Slide 18
From Lewis SM, Heitkemper MM, Dirksen SR: Medical-surgical
nursing: assessment and management of clinical problems, ed 7, St.
Louis, 2007, Mosby.
Slide 19
Physical therapy may be indicated for patients with hemorrhoids
to provide exercise programs and pelvic floor strengthening.
Slide 20
Description Progressive liver disease that destroys liver cells
Fibrous scar tissue replaces cells Liver functions deteriorate,
damage is irreversible Death can occur 5-15 years after diagnosis
without transplant Etiology Chronic alcohol abuse Viral hepatitis B
and C Autoimmune or metabolic diseases
Slide 21
Signs and Symptoms Initial Loss of appetite, weight loss,
nausea, anemia, fatigue, diarrhea; dull, aching pain in the upper
right quadrant of the abdomen as liver enlarges Disease progresses
Edema of the legs, jaundice, bruise easily; small, red, spidery
marks on the skin (may itch) Testicular atrophy, reduced chest
hair, abnormal breast enlargement Enlarged spleen, abdominal
distension, bleeding from the GI tract Memory and mental
confusion
Slide 22
Treatment Prescribed medications Liver transplant From Fazier
MS< Drzymkowski JW: Essentials of human diseases and conditions,
ed 2, Philadelphia, 2000, WB Saunders.
Slide 23
Physical therapy may be indicated for associated decreases in
strength, endurance, mobility, and function.
Surgery moving one end of the large intestine through the
abdomen Stool drains into colostomy bag Done after bowel
obstruction or bowel resection
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