Trauma Survivors Network - provided by ATS

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A Program of the ATS

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a rehabilitation specialty that is provided by licensed health care professionals. Physical therapists are involved in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of musculoskeletal, cardiopulmonary, integumentary, and neurological conditions. A Physical therapist provides guidance, support, and education to promote mobility, improve safety, reduce pain and discomfort, restore function, and prevent disability. 

The American Physical Therapy Association provides a model definition and states that Physical Therapy includes:

1. Examining individuals with impairment, functional limitation, and disability or other health related conditions in order to determine a diagnosis, prognosis, and intervention.
2. Alleviating impairment and functional limitation by designing, implementing, and modifying therapeutic interventions.
3. Preventing injury, impairment, functional limitation, and disability, including the promotion and maintenance of fitness, health, and quality of life in people of all ages.
4. Engaging in consultation, education, and research. 

Additional link: Physical Therapy


Associated pages

Physical Therapists
Mobilization Techniques
Range of Motion
Therapeutic Exercise
Aquatic Therapy
Therapeutic Modalities
*Specialties