What is a physical therapist?

Physical therapy focuses on the evaluation, management, and prevention of 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 caused by 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, reduce risk for injury, and reduce activity limitations.

PTs may provide treatment and education for:

Mobility

Balance and gait retraining

Heat and cold therapy and massage

Activities of daily living

Burn care

Casting and splinting

Wheelchair, walkers, canes, and crutches

Muscle retraining

Pain management

Cardiovascular strengthening

Use of braces and splints (orthotics) and prosthetics artificial limbs (prosthetics)

Exercise programs

PTs work in many settings, including:

Today, PTs who enter the profession must earn a doctorate from a school accredited by the American Physical Therapy Association. To practice, all graduates must be licensed in their state by passing a national certification exam.