physical therapy

noun

1

: therapy that is used to preserve, enhance, or restore movement and physical function impaired or threatened by disease, injury, or disability and that utilizes therapeutic exercise, physical modalities (such as massage and electrotherapy), assistive devices, and patient education and training

—abbreviation PT

called also physiotherapy

2

plural physical therapies : a therapeutic treatment utilized in physical therapy

[Andrea] Behrman said the center's work consists of physical therapies aimed at "retraining" the spine in an effort to improve strength and mobility.

—Deborah Yetter

—abbreviation PT

called also physiotherapy

Examples of physical therapy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

That is like the physical therapy that's happening in little steps. —Outside Online, 30 Oct. 2024

She was told to seek physical therapy, but as the pain continued, McNeill, 34, went for private treatment. —Cara Lynn Shultz, People.com, 17 Oct. 2024

It could also be used to monitor eating habits to help people manage weight, assist with physical therapy for those suffering from facial paralysis and more. —Alex Knapp, Forbes, 16 Oct. 2024

The large gym in the center of the building operates as a regular gym where guests can buy memberships, schedule one-on-one training appointments and exercise, including caretakers who bring in those who need physical therapy. —Alysa Guffey, The Indianapolis Star, 2 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1901, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

physical therapy

noun

: the treatment of disease, injury, or disability especially by massage, exercise, water, or heat

Medical Definition

physical therapy

noun

1

: therapy that is used to preserve, enhance, or restore movement and physical function impaired or threatened by disease, injury, or disability and that utilizes therapeutic exercise, physical modalities (such as massage and electrotherapy), assistive devices, and patient education and training

—abbreviation PT

called also physiotherapy

2

plural physical therapies : a therapeutic treatment utilized in physical therapy

—abbreviation PT

called also physiotherapy