Who are physical therapists?
Physical therapists are professionals, practicing in concert with members of related health professions. Three terms define the practice of physical therapy: 1) health promotion, 2) prevention, and 3) rehabilitation. Physical therapists examine and treat patients using a variety of physical therapeutic measures (such as thermal agents and exercise) and education versus medicine or surgery. Patient treatment is goal-oriented, focused on enhancing awareness of good health habits and a proactive approach to a healthy lifestyle, preventing physical disabilities, and rehabilitating persons disabled by pain, disease, or injury. Physical therapists are recognized as specialists in movement dysfunction.
