Physical Therapy

What is Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy is a dynamic profession with an established theoretical and scientific base, and has widespread clinical applications in the restoration, maintenance, and promotion of optimal physical function. For more than 750,000 people every day in the United States, physical therapists: Diagnose and manage movement dysfunction and enhance physical and functional abilities; Restore, maintain, and promote not only optimal physical function but optimal wellness and fitness and optimal quality of life as it relates to movement and health; Prevent the onset, symptoms, and progression of impairments, functional limitations, and disabilities that may result from disease, disorders, conditions, or injuries.

What is a Physical Therapist role in Health Care?

As essential participants in the health care delivery system, physical therapists assume leadership roles in rehabilitation; in prevention, health maintenance, and programs that promote health, wellness and fitness; and in professional and community organizations. Physical Therapists also play important roles both in developing standards for the physical therapy practice and in developing health care policy to ensure availability, accessibility, and optimal delivery of physical therapy services. Physical therapy is covered by federal, state, and private insurance plans. The positive impact of physical therapy services on health related quality of life is well accepted.