Welcome to Module 10

This module focuses on the clinical application of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) to support functional goals within the physical therapist’s plan of care. Students will gain competence in patient assessment, electrode placement, and selection of appropriate stimulation parameters while recognizing key indications, contraindications, and precautions. Emphasis is placed on safe administration, obtaining informed consent, and adapting treatment based on patient response and clinical presentation.

Module Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

Lecture Outcomes

Identify the indications, contraindications, precautions and parameters for common electrotherapeutic agents (CLO 8)
Determine when a physical agent should not be performed due to clinical indications within a case scenario (CLO 11)

Lab Outcomes

Describe the role of physical agents in achieving short- and long-term goals within the physical therapist's plan of care (CLO 3)
Display competence in assessing sensation, pain and skin integrity prior to administering a physical agent (CLO 7)
Identify the indications, contraindications, precautions and parameters for common electrotherapeutic agents (CLO 8)
Demonstrate competence in administering the following electrotherapeutic agents (CLO 9)
- NMES
Determine when a physical agent should not be performed due to clinical indications within a case scenario (CLO 11)
Display the ability to obtain informed consent during simulated patient experiences prior to applying physical agents (CLO 20)

(CLO = Course Learning Outcome)

To Do

Please read/watch all of the module learning materials (readings, presentations, videos, etc.) and complete all assignments/assessments listed below. If you have questions, please contact the course instructor or ask in the Questions About This Course forum.

Readings and Presentations:

Before Lab

Physical Agents Theory and Practice, Chapter 13
Chapter 13 Slides: Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation
- Behrens, B, Beinert H. Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation [PowerPoint presentation]. 2021.

Videos:

PhysioU: Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation

Assignments/Assessments:

Complete the following assignments by the date and time indicated on each assignment page.

Independently

Chapter 13 Review Questions

In Lab

Skills Check: NMES
NMES Case Studies

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