The Scale of Function is a workable treatment philosophy that directs the physical therapist to the correct entry point and then provides a systematic approach to advance the patient from a state of relative dysfunction to optimal function.

The Scale of Function was developed by Robert Collewijn and has been refined by Rob through more than 18 years of clinical testing. The Scale of Function was originally Rob’s answer to training therapists in his approach to manual physical therapy but, quickly expanded to a tested and workable philosophy of treatment.  As a result of the rigorous clinical testing the Scale of Function generates predictable,  immediate and invariable results when properly applied.  Which by definition, has elevated the Scale of Function to an exact Science.

The Scale of function breaks the physical function of the body down into 4 phases covering a total of 10 steps. These phases and steps form a gradient scale of function, meaning that each higher level of function depends upon the functions below it.

For example have you ever had your back go out of alignment or known someone who’s back has gone out?  When your back is out no amount of stretching will resolve it until the affected joints in the spine are put back into alignment and mobility of the spine is restored.  So mobility of the joints comes before flexibility of the muscles.   This is but one example of two of the functions of the body, Mobility and Flexibility.

So what are all the basic functions of the body?  What is the exact order of dependency amongst the various functions and what is the correct order of address that results in a systematic improvement, function by function, until the higher functions of the body such as agility and power can be attained and maintained indefinitely?  These are just a few of the questions the Scale of Function resolves.

The Scale of Function provides a workable gradient scale of function, which directs the therapist to an entry point and establishes the order functions are to be addressed in treatment so as to achieve optimal results and optimal function for the patient.

While the Scale of Function guides the order of treatment and defines the exact product needed at each phase and step of treatment, exactly what treatment techniques are used to attain the product of each step are selected by the therapist based on experience, training and  the patient’s presentation.  Thus the Scale of Function is supported by Health Motion’s commitment to training and enhancing the knowledge of our Physical Therapists both in the Scale of Function and workable manual physical therapy techniques that provide the most effective results for the patient.