What is physical therapy?

Physical therapy restores optimal function by minimizing physical impairments, functional limitations, and disabilities related to congenital and acquired conditions. Physical therapists help people maintain their health (preventing future deterioration or illness) and make environmental adaptations that enable people to function independently.

Everyone of all ages, from newborn to the very old, has the need to move and function. Physical therapists can work with anyone, anytime during their life span. They are experts in how the body moves and works. Sometimes, it is often thought that physical therapists only treat people who are ill or cannot move. They also promote healthy lifestyles and wellness and teach people how to prevent injuries and loss of movement.

All physical therapists must graduate from college. They must pass a state licensing exam. Many physical therapists have a master's or even a clinical doctorate degree. Some physical therapists may be certified in a special area such as orthopedic or geriatric physical therapy. Once licensed, they may work anywhere including schools, sports centers, hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, private offices, and patients' homes.

A physical therapist has different ways of treating people. The most well known is exercise to help a person who has had surgery or an injury. They may also manipulate or move a joint, massage a muscle, or apply additional therapies, such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, hot packs, and ice.

A person needs physical therapy anytime they have a problem while moving that keeps them from doing their daily living activities. Some of the most common reasons for a person to see a physical therapist include:

• back and neck pain
• problems with the arms, hands, feet, or legs
• arthritis
• heart and stroke rehabilitation
• long term breathing problems
• balance problems
• infant disabilities
• before and after pregnancy
• incontinence
• fitness and wellness education

Health insurance covers most forms of physical therapy. Most states do not require a referral before seeing a physical therapist.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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