Physical therapy: meaning, definitions and examples

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physical therapy

 

[ ˈfɪzɪkəl ˈθɛrəpi ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

healthcare

Physical therapy is a branch of rehabilitative health that uses specially designed exercises and equipment to help patients regain or improve their physical abilities.

Synonyms

physiotherapy, rehabilitation

Examples of usage

  • Mary underwent physical therapy after her knee surgery.
  • The physical therapist taught John exercises to strengthen his back muscles.
Context #2 | Noun

treatment

Physical therapy can also involve manual techniques, such as massage and joint manipulation, to alleviate pain and improve mobility.

Synonyms

PT, physical rehabilitation

Examples of usage

  • Lisa's physical therapy sessions included both exercises and massage.
  • After the car accident, David needed physical therapy to regain movement in his shoulder.

Translations

Translations of the word "physical therapy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 fisioterapia

🇮🇳 भौतिक चिकित्सा

🇩🇪 Physiotherapie

🇮🇩 terapi fisik

🇺🇦 фізіотерапія

🇵🇱 fizjoterapia

🇯🇵 物理療法

🇫🇷 physiothérapie

🇪🇸 fisioterapia

🇹🇷 fizik tedavi

🇰🇷 물리치료

🇸🇦 العلاج الطبيعي

🇨🇿 fyzioterapie

🇸🇰 fyzioterapia

🇨🇳 物理治疗

🇸🇮 fizioterapija

🇮🇸 sjúkraþjálfun

🇰🇿 физиотерапия

🇬🇪 ფიზიკური თერაპია

🇦🇿 fizioterapiya

🇲🇽 terapia física

Word origin

The origins of physical therapy can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, and Rome, where various forms of manual therapy and exercise were used to treat injuries and improve physical function. The modern practice of physical therapy began to emerge in the late 19th century, with the establishment of schools and techniques focused on rehabilitation and physical health. Over time, physical therapy has become an essential component of healthcare, helping millions of people recover from injuries, surgeries, and chronic conditions.