Physical therapy, also known as physiotherapy, focuses on helping people recover from injuries, illnesses, or disabilities that affect their ability to move and function normally. A physical therapist is a licensed healthcare professional who uses a variety of techniques and exercises to help their patients improve their mobility, strength, balance, flexibility, and overall physical function.
During a physical therapy session, the therapist will typically perform a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's condition, including their medical history, current symptoms, and functional limitations. Based on this assessment, the therapist will develop a personalized treatment plan that may include exercises, manual therapy, modalities (such as heat or ice), and education to help the patient manage their condition and prevent further injury.
The goal of physical therapy is to improve the patient's physical function and quality of life, with a focus on restoring or enhancing their ability to perform activities of daily living, work, or sports-related activities. Physical therapy can benefit people of all ages and abilities, from young athletes recovering from an injury to older adults with chronic conditions that affect their mobility.