EMG AND MSKUS LAWS FOR UTAH

The Physical Therapy Practice Act of the State of Utah defines Physical Therapy as:

“Physical therapy” or “physiotherapy” means: (i) examining, evaluating, and testing an individual who has a physical impairment or injury; (ii) identifying or labeling a physical impairment or injury; (iii) formulating a therapeutic intervention plan for the treatment of a physical impairment, injury, or pain; Utah Code Page 2 (iv) assessing the ongoing effects of therapeutic intervention for the treatment of a physical impairment or injury; (v) treating or alleviating a physical impairment by designing, modifying, or implementing a therapeutic intervention; (vi) reducing the risk of an injury or physical impairment; (vii) providing instruction on the use of physical measures, activities, or devices for preventative and therapeutic purposes; (viii) promoting and maintaining health and fitness; (ix) the administration of a prescription drug pursuant to Section 58-24b-403; (x) subject to Subsection 58-28-307(12)(b), engaging in the functions described in Subsections (10)(a)(i) through (ix) in relation to an animal, in accordance with the requirements of Section 58-24b-405; and (xi) engaging in administration, consultation, education, and research relating to the practices described in this Subsection (10)(a).

(a) “Testing” means a standard method or technique used to gather data regarding a patient that is generally and nationally accepted by physical therapists for the practice of physical therapy. (b) “Testing” includes measurement or evaluation of: (i) muscle strength, force, endurance, or tone; (ii) cardiovascular fitness; (iii) physical work capacity; (iv) joint motion, mobility, or stability; (v) reflexes or autonomic reactions; (vi) movement skill or accuracy; (vii) sensation; (viii) perception; (ix) peripheral nerve integrity; (x) locomotor skills, stability, and endurance; (xi) the fit, function, and comfort of prosthetic, orthotic, or other assistive devices; (xii) posture; (xiii) body mechanics; (xiv) limb length, circumference, and volume; (xv) thoracic excursion and breathing patterns; (xvi) activities of daily living related to physical movement and mobility; (xvii) functioning in the physical environment at home or work, as it relates to physical movement and mobility; and (xviii) neural muscular responses.

EMG/NCS Testing uses electricity and Musculoskeletal Ultrasound uses sound waves for the evaluation (testing and measurement) of the neuro-musculoskeletal system.

APTA fully supports PTs practicing EMG/NCS Testing as it is within the scope of Physical Therapy Practice. The Orthopedic Section of the APTA in a white paper not only advocates the use of Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Imaging within the scope of practice for Physical Therapy but also endorses its application both for diagnostic as well as procedural purposes to aid neuromuscular re-education, dry needling, and electroneuromyography.

Find here information about Direct Access to Physical Therapy in your state.