Theoretical framework of clinical reasoning in neurological physiotherapy: NeuroQR

Abstract

Neurological physiotherapy (NF) assists individuals who suffer from nervous system diseases that cause motor disorders to manage complex changes in movement and regain functionality. NF is a scientific area that has grown in recent decades. The knowledge acquired over the years requires solid clinical reasoning and well-structured management for its proper incorporation into clinical practice. Although the literature provides much information about clinical reasoning and decision-making in physiotherapy, few articles discuss the specific clinical reasoning of NF. The aim of this article is to present a theoretical framework for the clinical reasoning of the physiotherapist who works with individuals who have motor disorders and loss of functionality resulting from neurological disorders. The framework described is divided into 4 dimensions: concepts, approaches, methods and techniques. It was built by the Physiotherapy Department of Alcoitão Health School and is based on previously published frameworks.