Scope of Pharmacology in Physiotherapy

Scope of Pharmacology in Physiotherapy

 

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Introduction

• Pharmacology is the branch of science that deals with the study of drugs – their origin, composition, pharmacokinetics (how they move through the body), pharmacodynamics (how they act on the body), and therapeutic uses.
• In physiotherapy, understanding pharmacology helps physiotherapists work safely and effectively with patients who are taking medications.

Importance of Pharmacology for Physiotherapists

1. Safe Practice
• Helps avoid drug-related complications during physical treatment (e.g., exercise, electrotherapy).
• Ensures physiotherapists are aware of adverse effects that can impact therapy outcomes.
2. Improved Patient Assessment
• Helps identify whether certain symptoms are side effects of drugs or signs of a new condition.
3. Better Communication with Healthcare Team
• Pharmacological knowledge supports interprofessional collaboration with doctors, nurses, and pharmacists.
4. Holistic Patient Care
• Integrates drug effects with physical therapy goals for better rehabilitation outcomes.

Areas Where Pharmacology is Applied in Physiotherapy

1. Pain Management
• Understanding of analgesics (e.g., paracetamol, NSAIDs) and opioids (e.g., morphine).
• Helps time physical therapy sessions when pain relief is optimal.
• Minimizes aggravation of pain during mobilization or exercises.
2. Inflammation Control
• Use of anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, corticosteroids) in musculoskeletal conditions like arthritis or injury.
• Physiotherapists must know how inflammation-reducing medications affect mobility and recovery timelines.
3. Neurological Conditions
• Awareness of drugs used in Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, stroke, and multiple sclerosis.
• Medications can affect balance, coordination, muscle tone — critical for planning therapy.
4. Cardiovascular and Respiratory Disorders
• Understanding of antihypertensives, anticoagulants, bronchodilators, and diuretics.
• Some drugs may cause dizziness, fatigue, or orthostatic hypotension — all important for exercise tolerance and safety.
5. Post-surgical Rehabilitation
• Patients may be on antibiotics, anticoagulants, and painkillers post-surgery.
• Drug interactions and side effects must be considered while initiating physical therapy.
6. Orthopedic and Sports Rehabilitation
• Use of muscle relaxants, painkillers, and anti-inflammatory drugs in fracture recovery or soft tissue injuries.
• Helps time interventions like ultrasound, TENS, or mobilization.
7. Geriatric Physiotherapy
• Elderly patients are often on multiple drugs (polypharmacy).
• Understanding side effects like drowsiness, weakness, or risk of falls is essential.

Common Drug Classes a Physiotherapist Should Know

Drug Class	Use
NSAIDs	Pain, inflammation
Muscle Relaxants	Spasticity, muscle tension
Opioids	Severe pain
Anticoagulants	Prevent clots, especially post-surgery
Bronchodilators	Asthma, COPD
Corticosteroids	Severe inflammation
Antidepressants	Neuropathic pain, depression
Anticonvulsants	Epilepsy, neural pain

Precautions for Physiotherapists

• Know side effects: e.g., dizziness, sedation, hypotension.
• Adjust therapy: Exercise and intensity may need modification.
• Monitor vital signs: Especially in patients on cardiovascular or respiratory medications.
• Recognize emergencies: Allergic reactions, signs of overdose, drug withdrawal symptoms.
• Documentation: Note drug history and communicate changes in patient response.

Video Description

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