physiotherapy

Physiotherapy, also known as physical therapy in some countries, is a health profession focused on examining and treating disorders of movement and function, with the aim of enabling individuals to live healthier, more independent lives. Physiotherapists assess patients through history-taking, physical examination, and, when appropriate, objective tests, to identify movement limitations and functional impairment. Treatment plans emphasize restoring mobility, reducing pain, preventing disability, and promoting overall well-being, often within a patient-centered, evidence-based framework.

Core approaches include manual therapy (soft tissue and joint mobilization), prescribed therapeutic exercises, postural training, gait re-education, and functional training. Adjunct modalities such as heat, cold, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, and hydrotherapy may be used to aid recovery. Respiratory therapy and neuromuscular retraining are also common elements, depending on the case.

Common practice areas include musculoskeletal injuries and postoperative rehabilitation; neurology (stroke, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury); cardiopulmonary rehabilitation; pediatrics; geriatrics; palliative and community-based care; sports injuries and performance optimization.

Settings include hospitals, outpatient clinics, private practices, community health centers, and home care. The aim across settings is to improve activity, participation, and quality of life.

Education and regulation: In most countries, physiotherapists hold a university degree in physiotherapy and must be licensed or registered to practice. They engage in ongoing professional development and adhere to professional codes of conduct.

Terminology: The term physiotherapy is widely used internationally; physical therapy is used in some regions. The two refer to the same profession in many contexts.

History: The profession developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, expanding rapidly after major conflicts and in response to public health needs.