Physical therapists evaluate and treat people with health problems resulting from injury or disease. They assess joint motion, muscle strength and endurance, function of heart and lungs, and performance of activities required in daily living. Physical therapists employ a wide range of therapeutic exercise techniques, cardiovascular endurance training, and training in activities of daily living. Typical examples of persons who might benefit from physical therapy include an automobile mechanic with an injured back, an elderly person with arthritis; a newborn baby with a birth defect; a professional athlete in training; a stroke victim; a crippled child; a pregnant woman; and an overstressed business executive.

Physical therapy aids people who are recovering from injury or a disease by making them stronger, relieving their pain, and helping them to regain use of an affected limb or to relearn such daily activities as walking, dressing, and bathing. Some patients...