A physical therapist (PT) specializes in improving and restoring mobility, movement, strength, flexibility, balance and coordination in people of all ages. A PT evaluates and treats injuries and movement problems with exercises and other physical methods. PTs can often help people avoid surgery, as well as prevent and minimize pain, loss of function, and disability.
A PT typically:
Reviews and evaluates a patient’s medical history and his or her mobility and physical functioning
Tests and measures balance, coordination, strength, range of motion, posture muscle performance, respiration, and motor function
Diagnoses movement dysfunctions
Works with patients to develop an individualized treatment plan based on their medical history, lifestyle, personal needs, and fitness and mobility goals
Prescribes exercises and other physical treatment techniques
Evaluates treatment progress and makes adjustments to the plan as needed
Educates patients about home techniques to optimize mobility, strength, and overall fitness
Consults and collaborates with a patient’s entire medical and rehabilitation team
There are 206387 specialists practicing Physical Therapy in the United States with an overall average rating of 4.6 stars. There are 1109 hospitals in the United States with affiliated Physical Therapy specialists, including UW Health University Hospital, Essentia Health St. Mary's Medical Center and University Of Utah Hospitals And Clinics.
