Physical Therapy is a health profession dedicated to the promotion of optimum health and function through the application of scientific principles to prevent, identify, assess, correct, or alleviate acute or prolonged movement dysfunction. Physical therapists employ evaluation procedures such as assessment of muscle performance, joint motion, and level of independent function, as well as tests of respiratory, sensorimotor, circulatory and developmental status. Based on the interpretation of evaluation results, physical therapists develop treatment programs designed to:
Physical Therapy is implemented through:
In addition to the delivery of direct patient care, physical therapists are involved in the development of new principles and applications to meet existing and emerging health needs more effectively. As part of their professional responsibilities physical therapists are also involved in research, education, consultation and administration.