What is the primary focus of physical therapy?

The primary focus of physical therapy is centered around the treatment of physical impairment. This profession is dedicated to helping individuals recover from injuries, manage pain, and improve mobility and strength after a variety of physical challenges. Physical therapists assess patients' physical function and work with them to create tailored treatment plans that may include exercises, manual therapy, and modalities aimed at restoring function and mobility.

While promoting overall health, physical therapy specifically addresses conditions such as musculoskeletal injuries, neurological disorders, post-surgical rehabilitation, and chronic pain, making it a crucial component in helping clients regain their physical capabilities. This focus distinguishes physical therapy from practices aimed at enhancing mental health, social skills, or communication strategies, which are the domains of other therapeutic professions.