Physical therapy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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physical therapy
[ˈfɪzɪkəl ˈθɛrəpi ]
Definitions
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.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| physical therapy |
Used commonly in the United States to refer to healthcare that helps individuals maintain, recover, or improve physical abilities. It often involves exercises, stretches, and other activities.
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| physiotherapy |
More commonly used in countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia. It refers to the same practices as physical therapy - working to improve physical function after injury or illness.
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| rehabilitation |
Broader term that includes physical therapy or physiotherapy, but also encompasses other forms of therapy (like occupational or speech therapy) to help someone recover from injury, surgery, or illness. It focuses on overall recovery and functionality.
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Examples of usage
- Mary underwent physical therapy after her knee surgery.
- The physical therapist taught John exercises to strengthen his back muscles.
treatment
Physical therapy can also involve manual techniques, such as massage and joint manipulation, to alleviate pain and improve mobility.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| physical therapy |
This term is generally used in medical settings to describe treatments that help improve physical functions and alleviate pain. It is the most commonly used term when referring to treatments aimed at recovery from injuries or surgeries.
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| physical rehabilitation |
This term is often used to describe a broader, more comprehensive approach to recovery that includes physical therapy but may also encompass other treatments like occupational therapy and speech therapy. It's typically used in contexts where the patient requires a multi-faceted treatment program.
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| PT |
This is an abbreviation for 'physical therapy' or 'physical therapist.' It is commonly used in casual or informal communication, as well as in medical documentation.
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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
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- Physical therapy practices can be traced back to ancient civilizations, including the Romans, who used exercise and massage for healing.
- In the early 20th century, during World War I, physical therapists began treating injured soldiers to help them recover from their wounds.
- In 1921, the American Physical Therapy Association was established, marking the profession's formal recognition in the United States.
Science
- Studies show that physical therapy can effectively reduce chronic pain and improve mobility for various conditions.
- Research indicates that engaging in movement and exercise as part of therapy can lead to better mental health outcomes.
- The use of technology, such as virtual reality and robotic devices, is becoming more common in physical therapy practices to aid recovery.
Pop Culture
- TV shows often portray physical therapists as crucial allies for athletes recovering from injuries, highlighting the importance of their work.
- In movies, characters often undergo physical rehabilitation journeys, showcasing both the struggle and triumph of recovery.
- Fictional sports dramas frequently feature physical therapy scenes that emphasize teamwork between therapists and athletes.
Psychology
- An important aspect of physical therapy is the psychological boost patients receive from regaining movement and independence.
- Therapists use motivational interviewing to help clients set and achieve personal goals in their recovery.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy principles can be integrated into physical rehabilitation to help patients combat pain and fear of movement.
Literature
- Books on sports medicine often highlight the essential role of physical therapy in athlete training and injury prevention.
- Many self-help books emphasize the link between physical movement, therapy, and emotional well-being.
- Autobiographies of athletes frequently discuss their experiences with physical therapy during recovery from significant injuries.
Origin of 'physical therapy'
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.