Physical Therapy Profession

Physiotherapy is a health care profession whose practitioners work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes and private practice. Physical therapists work with patients who are disabled by illness or accident or were born with a congenital disability; they evaluate neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, sensory motor and related cardiovascular and respiratory functions of the patient. Evaluation includes performing and interpreting tests to assist in to determine the degree of impairment of relevant aspects such as muscle strength, motor development, functional capacity or respiratory and circulatory efficiency. Evaluation provides the basis for the selection of appropriate therapeutic procedure and evaluation of results of treatment. Physical therapists plan and implement initial and subsequent treatment programs on the basis of test findings and within the referral of the licensed physician or with whom they maintain contact regarding the care of the patient. The treatment given by physical therapists includes exercises for increasing strength, endurance, coordination and range of motion; stimuli to facilitate motor activity and learning; the application of physical agents such as heat, cold, electricity and water, instruction in activities of daily living and the use of assistive devices, motivate and instruct the patient, his/ her family and others who might help him through his treatment and convalescent period.