What is physical therapy?

Physical therapy or physiotherapy (PT) is a unique science and art that is concerned with identifying and maximizing quality of life and movement potential within by acknowledging physical, psychological, emotional, and social well being. PT is a health care specialty involved with evaluating, diagnosing, and treating disorders of the musculoskeletal system and it's interaction with physical movement.

The ultimate goal of physical therapy is to restore maximal functional independence to each individual patient. To achieve this goal, physical medicines such as exercise, heat, cold, electricity, massage and other complimentary modalities are utilized. Functional independence is central to what it means to be healthy.