Medical Subject Headings (MeSH): Physical Therapists

Physical therapists (PTs) are healthcare professionals who specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of movement disorders. They work with patients of all ages who have medical conditions, illnesses, or injuries that limit their ability to move and perform daily activities.

Physical therapists use a variety of techniques and interventions to help patients improve their mobility, reduce pain, and prevent or limit permanent physical disabilities. These may include exercises, stretches, manual therapy, and the use of equipment such as treadmills, weights, and resistance bands. They may also provide patients with education and training on how to prevent further injury or disability, and how to manage their condition independently.

Physical therapists can work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, schools, sports teams, and private practices. They work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians, nurses, and occupational therapists, to develop and implement treatment plans that are tailored to the individual needs of each patient.

Physical therapists are licensed healthcare professionals who typically have a master’s or doctorate degree in physical therapy, and have passed a national examination. They must also maintain their license by continuing education and staying current with the latest developments in the field.

Physical therapy can be beneficial for a wide range of conditions, including orthopedic conditions, such as sports injuries, back pain, and arthritis, neurologic conditions, such as stroke and traumatic brain injury, and cardiopulmonary conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and heart failure.