The focus of physical therapy is to evaluate, manage, and prevent disorders of human motion.
Physical therapists (PTs) are important members of the rehab (rehabilitation) team. They evaluate and provide treatment for people with health problems and disabilities. This can be from injury, disease, overuse, pain, or loss of a body part.
PTs focus on restoring a person's movement (mobility) and function. They also help prevent further disability. And they can help reduce the risk for injury and activity limitations. In many instances, a course of physical therapy can help you avoid surgery.
PTs may provide treatment and education for many things. This includes:
- Mobility.
- Balance and gait retraining.
- Heat and cold therapy and massage.
- Activities of daily living.
- Burn care.
- Casting and splinting.
- Wheelchairs, walkers, canes, and crutches.
- Muscle retraining.
- Resuming sports after injuries.
- Pain management.
- Cardiovascular strengthening.
- Using braces and splints (orthotics) and artificial limbs (prosthetics).
- Exercise programs.
- Addressing specific physical issues. This includes bladder and gastrointestinal function.
PTs work in many settings. This includes:
- Hospitals.
- Nursing homes.
- Inpatient rehab centers.
- Outpatient rehab centers.
- Community and home health settings.
- Schools.
- Industrial health centers.
- Sports facilities.
- Private practice.
PTs must earn a doctorate from a school that is accredited by the American Physical Therapy Association. PTs must be licensed in their state by passing a national certification exam.