Physical therapy is a healthcare profession concerned with prevention, treatment and management of movement disorders arising from conditions and diseases occurring throughout the lifespan. Physical therapy is performed by either a physical therapist or a physical therapist assistant acting under the direction of a physical therapist. A program of physical therapy will typically also involve a patient's caregivers.
Physical therapists utilize a patient's history and physical examination in diagnosis and treatment, and if necessary, Physical therapists will also incorporate the results of laboratory and imaging studies. Electrodiagnostic testing (e.g., electromyograms, nerve conduction velocity testing) may also be of assistance. Physical therapists practice in many settings, such as outpatient clinics or offices, inpatient rehabilitation facilities, extended care facilities, patient homes, education or research centers, schools, hospices, industrial workplaces or other occupational environments, fitness centers and sports training facilities.