Physical therapy is therapy performed by a licensed practitioner who works with the physical aspects of a medical illness and specializes in the use of exercise to treat physical conditions.

Physical therapy is a medical profession concerned with the evaluation, assessment, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of disease and disability through physical means.

It is based upon principles of medical science, and is generally held to be within the sphere of conventional medicine. Physical therapy aims to prevent injury, impairment, functional limitation, and disability, and includes promotion and maintenance of fitness, health, and quality of life in people of all ages.

Physical therapy is the rehabilitation that restores function and prevents disability following disease or injury. Physical therapy also encompasses recommendations on bracing/splinting, assistive devices, orthotics, footwear, and ergonomics.

Each discipline of physical therapy requires a special skillset.  All disciplines focus on restoring the ability to move, reducing pain, and promoting function and independence, and preventing disability.