Physical therapy (PT) is care that aims to ease pain and help you function, move, and live better. You may need it to: Relieve pain. Improve movement or ability. Prevent or recover from a sports injury.
Physical therapy (PT), also known as physiotherapy, is one of the allied health professions. It is provided by physical therapists who promote, maintain, or restore health through physical examination, diagnosis, management, prognosis, patient education, physical intervention, rehabilitation, disease prevention, and health promotion.
Physical therapists aim to improve a person’s range of movement and quality of life and prevent further injury or disability.
• Cardiopulmonary conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis, and post-myocardial infarction heart failure
• Conditions that affect the hand, such as carpal tunnel syndrome and trigger finger
• Musculoskeletal dysfunction, including back pain, rotator cuff tears, and temporomandibular joint disorders
• Neurological conditions, such as stroke, spinal cord injuries, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, vestibular dysfunction, and traumatic brain injuries
• Pediatric conditions, including cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy
• Sports-related injuries, such as concussion and tennis elbow
• Female health and pelvic floor dysfunction, including urinary incontinence and lymphedema
• Skin conditions or injuries, such as burns, wound care, and diabetic ulcers
*If your illness or its treatment produces one or more of the following: severe or chronic pain; nausea or severe vomiting; or cachexia or severe wasting.
Depending on the reason for treatment, the benefits of physical therapy may include:
A sports therapist can help an athlete maximize their performance by strengthening specific parts of the body and using muscles in new ways.
A physical therapist or other healthcare professional can advise individuals about the benefits specific to their personal medical history and their need for treatment.
Physical therapists evaluate your condition and develop a care plan that guides your therapy. They may perform hands-on treatments for your symptoms. They also teach you special exercises to help you move and function better.
Physical therapy can be really helpful for people with particular injuries, specials needs, or other health conditions.
To find out more on the benefits of physical therapy, an individual should talk to a physical therapist or another health care specialist.