Physical Therapy Resources
Professional resources, clinical tools, and evidence-based practice guidelines for physical therapists
Professional Organizations
Professional organizations provide guidance, continuing education, advocacy, and resources for physical therapists.
American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
The national professional organization representing physical therapists in the United States.
- Practice guidelines and resources
- Continuing education opportunities
- Professional networking
- Advocacy for the profession
Website: www.apta.org
World Confederation for Physical Therapy (WCPT)
International organization representing physical therapists and physical therapy associations worldwide.
- Global standards for physical therapy practice
- International resources and collaboration
- Educational guidelines
Website: world.physio
Academy of Orthopedic Physical Therapy
APTA academy focused on orthopedic physical therapy practice, research, and education.
- Specialized orthopedic resources
- Clinical practice guidelines
- Orthopedic-specific continuing education
Website: www.orthopt.org
Evidence-Based Resources
Evidence-based practice resources provide access to current research, clinical guidelines, and outcome measures.
PEDro (Physiotherapy Evidence Database)
Free database of randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and clinical practice guidelines in physical therapy.
- Over 49,000 randomized trials, reviews, and guidelines
- Quality ratings for research studies
- Simple and advanced search functions
Website: pedro.org.au
Rehabilitation Measures Database
Database of assessment instruments and outcome measures for rehabilitation professionals.
- Detailed information on administration and scoring
- Psychometric properties of measures
- Clinical utility information
Cochrane Library
Collection of databases containing high-quality, independent evidence to inform healthcare decision-making.
- Systematic reviews and meta-analyses
- Focus on intervention effectiveness
- Regularly updated content
Website: www.cochranelibrary.com
Clinical Tools
Practical tools and calculators to assist physical therapists in clinical decision-making and patient management.
Clinical Prediction Rules
Tools that help clinicians determine diagnosis, prognosis, or appropriate interventions based on clinical findings.
Common CPRs in Physical Therapy:
- Ottawa Ankle Rules
- Spinal Manipulation CPR for Low Back Pain
- CPR for Identifying Patients Who Benefit from Cervical Traction
- Wells Criteria for DVT Risk
Outcome Measure Calculators
Tools for calculating and interpreting standardized outcome measures.
Common Calculators:
- Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) Calculator
- Neck Disability Index (NDI) Calculator
- Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) Calculator
- Berg Balance Scale Calculator
Exercise Prescription Resources
Tools and resources for developing evidence-based exercise prescriptions.
Useful Resources:
- ACSM Exercise Prescription Guidelines
- Exercise Prescription Software
- Therapeutic Exercise Databases
- Patient Education Materials
Downloadable Assessment Tools
We've added a dedicated Downloads section to our website with printable assessment forms and clinical tools.
Available Assessment Forms
Visit our Downloads page to access printable assessment tools including:
- Berg Balance Scale (BBS)
- Tinetti Balance Test (POMA)
- And more to come