Clinical Reasoning

Question 1

Definition of Reasoning skills

Answer 1

“Reasoning skills encompass the ability to think critically, analyze information, and make sound
judgments based on evidence and logic.”
In physiotherapy:
• Critical thinking
• Decision making

Question 2

What are the 3 différents clinical reasoning approach?

Answer 2

• Backward Reasoning
• Hypothetical-deductive process
• Iterative process

Question 3

Explain Backward reasoning in clinical reasoning

Answer 3

1. Backward reasoning
   - Clinician starts w/ patient’s reported symptoms or clinical findings -> make an hypothesis
2. Hypothetical-deductive process
   - Test the hypothesis ( H based on history taking, PE, Functional T, Imaging..)
3. Iterative process
   - Revisits and adjusts Hypothesis
   => Reasoning backward : from observed clinical presentation to determine origine of the issue

Question 4

What are the advantages of Backward reasoning?

Answer 4

• Systematic approach (all potential causes are considered)
• Adaptable (H can be updated)
• Efficient problem solving (prioritize testing most probable H)
• Evidence-based

Answer 5

A set of Hypothesis is generated