What does a Physical Therapist do?

Physical Therapy
Physical therapy focuses on helping patients recover functionality after an illness or injury – for example, a stroke, sports injuries, spinal cord or brain injury, or flare-ups from arthritis or fibromyalgia. A physical therapist may use diagnostic tools such as nerve conduction studies (NCS), which measure the nerves’ responses to electrical stimulation, and needle electromyographies (EMGs), which assess the effects of needle electrodes on the muscles. Treatments include physical therapy, medication, orthotics and adaptive devices. Physical therapy and rehabilitation specialty training may be combined with pediatrics, neurology and internal medicine training.