Fundamentals Assessment Principles in Therapeutic Movements

Therapeutic exercises may be defined as body movements performed using medical methods to correct a disorder, improve musculoskeletal function, or maintain an optimal functional state. These exercises range from carefully selected, specific exercises targeting particular body regions or muscle groups to general exercises designed to maintain the patient at the highest possible level of physical conditioning. Due to the local and systemic effects of therapeutic exercises on body physiology, a comprehensive medical examination and assessment must be conducted before prescribing any exercise program. Exercises applied without an adequate and thorough evaluation may result in harm rather than benefit. This book has been prepared based on relevant literature, our lecture notes, and practical applications related to assessment in therapeutic exercises. Its primary aim is to teach fundamental assessment principles to students of the Departments of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation within Faculties of Health Sciences. At Hacettepe University School of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, the course Principles of Therapeutic Exercises constitutes the foundation of this field. We respectfully acknowledge our esteemed faculty member, whose work has made significant contributions to our school and who played a key role in establishing the foundational knowledge of this course. We would like to express our gratitude to Assoc. Prof. Cenan Çağlar, and to Prof. Dr. Mehmet G. Karakaya and Prof. Dr. Sevil Çuvalcı Bilgin for their contributions to the photographs prepared for the third edition of this book. - Prof. Dr. A. Saadet OTMAN Ankara, 2026