What is a physical therapist (physiotherapist)?
A physical therapist, or physiotherapist, is a healthcare provider who helps you improve how your body performs physical movements. They’ll help you manage symptoms like pain, stiffness and discomfort.
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Many people work with a physical therapist while they’re recovering from an injury or surgery. But rehabilitation (rehab) isn’t the only time you might work with a physiotherapist. They can help you move more confidently and safely to treat certain health conditions or prevent injuries.
A physical therapist can be part of your care team with a primary healthcare provider to treat and prevent issues that make it hard to move.
Are physical therapists doctors?
Physical therapists aren’t medical doctors (MD) or doctors of osteopathy (DO). They can’t diagnose health conditions, prescribe medicine or perform surgeries.
A physiotherapist will work with you to improve your movement, usually after you’ve seen another healthcare provider for a diagnosis. You can also visit a physical therapist directly without a referral in the U.S.
What does DPT mean?
DPT stands for doctor of physical therapy — the degree physical therapists earn that means they’re trained and qualified.
It usually takes around three years to earn a DPT. Physical therapists also have an undergraduate bachelor’s degree.
In the U.S., all physical therapists must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination before they can practice.
What does a physiotherapist do?
A physical therapist will develop a customized set of exercises and movements to help you move your body. They’ll help you:
- Manage pain.
- Improve your range of motion (how far you can move a part of your body).
- Manage symptoms of a health condition that affects your mobility.
- Recover from injuries and prevent future damage.
What kinds of conditions does a physical therapist treat?
Physiotherapists can treat any issue that makes it hard for you to move or use your body.
A healthcare provider might suggest you see a physical therapist to treat common conditions, including:
You might need to work with a physical therapist after an injury or trauma, especially if you’ve experienced:
Physical therapists also treat long-term (chronic) conditions that make it hard to move, including:
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