Which vital sign is commonly monitored during physical therapy?

Heart rate is commonly monitored during physical therapy because it provides critical information regarding a patient's cardiovascular response to exercise and physical activity. As patients engage in therapeutic movements or exercises, tracking heart rate helps therapists assess how well the heart is functioning, how the body is responding to exertion, and whether adjustments need to be made to the patient's treatment plan.

Monitoring heart rate can also indicate the effectiveness of cardiovascular conditioning, reveal potential complications, and ensure that the patient remains within a safe training zone during rehabilitation. This allows therapists to ensure patients are not experiencing undue stress on their hearts, particularly in those recovering from heart conditions or surgeries.

While blood pressure, respiratory rate, and body temperature are also important vital signs, heart rate is particularly emphasized in the context of physical activity and rehabilitation, making it a key focus in many physical therapy settings.