Abstract
In this article, I discuss the common ground of physical therapy and motor learning by reviewing findings and ideas in psychology, physiology and/or dynamics that overlap the practice of physical therapy. The concept of "KR" in the methodology of skill acquisition is derived from behaviorism in psychology. On the other hand, the schema theory has arrived at its own concept by utilizing the theory of information processing in cognitive psychology, and has revised the methodology of skill acquisition. Furthermore, the dynamical systems approach has its own theory, which denies the reflex theory and the hierarchical theory in the field of physiology, and incorporates the ecological approach from the field of psychology, as well as applying some findings from the field of dynamics. It seems that the motor learning theories are readily available in the clinical setting; however, their uptake in physical therapy has so far been limited. The conceivable reasons why the motor learning theories have not been widely used in clinical settings in physical therapy is discussed and proposals are made as to what is required for physical therapists to incorporate motor learning into their clinical practice.
