How is physical therapy defined in New Hampshire?

Testing, examining and evaluating impairments, movement dysfunctions, and disabilities or other health and movement-related conditions in order to determine a diagnosis, prognosis, and plan of intervention, and to assess the outcomes of intervention.

What is included in the practice of physical therapy?

Alleviating impairments, movement dysfunctions, and disabilities by designing and implementing, and modifying interventions that include, but are not limited to:

• Therapeutic exercise;
• Training related to movement dysfunctions in self-care and in home, community or work integration or reintegration;
• Manual therapy including soft tissue and joint mobilization;
• Therapeutic massage;
• Assistive and adaptive orthotic, prosthetic, protective and supportive devices and equipment related to movement dysfunctions;
• Airway clearance techniques;
• Integumentary protection and repair techniques;
• Debridement and wound care;
• Physical agents or modalities;
• Mechanical and electrotherapeutic modalities; and
• Patient-related instruction.

Reducing the risk of injury, impairment, movement dysfunctions and disability, including the promotion and maintenance of health, wellness, and fitness in populations of all ages.

Engaging in administration, consultation, education and research.

What is specifically excluded from the practice?

A licensed PT is not authorized to practice medicine, osteopathy, chiropractic, naturopathy, or any other form or method of healing, except physical therapy.  The use of roentgen rays and radium for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, and the use of electricity for surgical purposes including cauterization, are not within the scope of practice.

Are there any special trainings or requirements?

New Hampshire PT Topical Medications

Reference

N.H. Code Admin. R. Phy 302.12

N.H. RSA § 328-A:2

N.H. RSA § 328-A:9

N.H. Code Admin. R. Phy 410