Movement is both the goal and the means of recovery. Physical therapy is treatment that uses exercise, manual techniques, education, and physical modalities to restore strength, mobility, balance, and function after injury, surgery, or illness.

Physical therapists assess movement impairments and design progressive programs. Practice settings include hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, and homes. Conditions range from joint replacement and stroke to sports injuries and chronic pain. Education in body mechanics and self-management prevents recurrence.

Early mobilization after surgery and critical illness reduces complications. Measurable goals and functional outcomes guide progression. Collaboration with physicians and occupational therapists ensures comprehensive rehabilitation plans.

• Treatment using movement to restore physical function
• Includes exercise, manual therapy, and education
• Applied after injury, surgery, and neurological illness
• Focuses on measurable functional improvement