Physical therapists are healthcare professionals who help people improve their movement and manage pain. They diagnose and treat patients who have medical problems or injuries that limit their abilities to move or function in their daily lives. Physical therapists work with people who have experienced an injury or disease that has affected their movement and range of motion. They often focus on treatments that reduce the need for surgery and prescription drugs. Physical therapists use a combination of exercise, stretches, hands-on techniques, and equipment to restore function or relieve pain. They work with physical therapy assistants, educators, social workers, nurses, doctors, and surgeons to treat patients of all ages, from infants to the elderly.

Physical therapists typically receive referrals from doctors and other professionals. They usually start by performing a physical examination to gain a better understanding of the patients issue. From there, they may use a combination of exercises, stretches, equipment, and other hands-on techniques as part of the treatment plan. The goal is to restore functionality by improving movement and increasing motion range in specific body areas. Continuous physical therapy treatment can reduce the current or future need for prescription drugs or surgery.

Physical therapists work in various settings, including hospitals, private practices, home health agencies, outpatient rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, schools, and medical clinics[[5]](https://my.cleve...