The American Physical Therapy Association defines Physical Therapists as movement experts who team with physical therapist assistants to treat people of all ages and abilities. Physical therapists design personalized treatment plans to improve movement, reduce or manage pain, restore function, and prevent disability. They help people avoid surgery and prescription drugs, maximize their mobility, manage pain and chronic conditions, and improve their physical function and fitness.
Physical therapists are licensed health care providers. They evaluate, diagnose, and manage health conditions and movement problems in people of all ages and abilities. They empower people to take an active role in their care.
Since 2000, all physical therapists who graduate in the United States must complete a three-year post-graduate program to earn a doctorate in physical therapy. All graduates also must pass a national exam to be licensed and practice physical therapy in their state. Physical therapists may use “PT” or “DPT” after their names. A physical therapist with a DPT is called a doctor of physical therapy.
Physical therapists use the best available evidence to design treatment plans specific to each person's needs and goals. They help prevent or improve many chronic conditions and provide treatment and strategies to:
- Improve and restore movement and function.
- Manage pain.
- Lessen the symptoms of many conditions and diseases.
- Recover from and prevent injury.
Physical therapists also play a unique role in promoting health, wellness, and fitness. They help people overcome barriers to regular physical activity to benefit physical, mental, and social health.
Physical therapists are movement experts who improve quality of life through:
- Hands-on care.
- Patient education.
- Prescribed movement.
You can contact a physical therapist directly for an evaluation. To locate a physical therapist in your area, visit Find a PT.
Research has long shown that physical therapy is an effective treatment option for many symptoms and conditions. Working with a physical therapist and physical therapist assistant can help prevent chronic conditions from developing or worsening and enable a return to your previous level of function or activity. Physical therapy can help you address and avoid movement problems so you can live a fulfilling, healthy, and independent life.
These products were designed by Physical Therapists for effective balance and strength training. The 
More Helpful Exercise Products
Some other helpful exercise products include:
OPTP Pull-Up System by Bob and Brad provides users with an easy way to perform arm and core strength training exercises, including pull-ups and chin-ups, using a variety of grip variations to target different muscle groups. Created by physical therapists Bob Schrupp and Brad Heineck, this unique system is easy to assemble, compact, and doesn't take up much wall space.
If you suffer from limited mobility, be sure to consult with your physical therapist this month. And try some of our helpful other exercise products, as well.
