La fisioterapia en los sistemas de salud: Marco teórico y fundamentos para una práctica integral

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to present a conceptual framework for expanding the role of physiotherapists in health systems. The first section discusses conceptual aspects of the profession, its object of study, and field of practice; emphasis is placed on adopting broader conceptual approaches centered on health, rather than disability alone. Second, four theories of physiotherapy are considered: the pathokinesiology model; Movement Continuum Theory; the Movement Ability Measure model; and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health. A theoretical framework for the role of physiotherapists in health systems is then proposed, outlining functions in primary, secondary, and tertiary care, as well as surveillance and health management. This constitutes an attempt to articulate the contribution of physiotherapists to health promotion, disability and disease prevention, cure and rehabilitation.