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

However, through physical therapy and rehab, the actor was able to learn to walk and talk again. —Lauryn Overhultz, Fox News, 24 Feb. 2025

Go to physical therapy In addition to medication, axSpA treatment typically involves regular physical activity, often under the guidance of a physical therapist. —Sarah Klein, SELF, 20 Feb. 2025

However, providers typically suggest hormone therapy, lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and pain management first.4 Types of Laparoscopy for Endometriosis Healthcare providers may use laparoscopy to either diagnose or treat endometriosis. —Joy Emeh, Health, 15 Feb. 2025

On Monday, the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund launched the David Johansen Fund to raise money for the singer’s physical therapy, full-time nursing needs, and daily living expenses. —Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 10 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1901, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for physical therapy

• immunotherapy
• pharmacotherapy
• physiotherapy
• radiotherapy
• brachytherapy
• chemotherapy
• cryotherapy
• hydrotherapy
• hypnotherapy
• monotherapy
• phototherapy
• psychotherapy

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