The whole concept behind physical therapy is to restore functionality, reduce pain, improve mobility and prevent further injury. Methods used include stretches, exercise, traction, massage and electrical stimulation. Some of the tools used include crutches, braces, hot and cold packs, treadmills, compression vests, lasers and prosthetics. Physical treatment is appropriate for patients of all ages. Massage and joint manipulation have made significant advances in physical therapy. Hydrotherapy, splints and exercises have historically been used to treat wounded soldiers.

Individual patient circumstances and health determine the appropriate physical therapy to engage. Physical therapy targets increased patient functionality both at home and at work. Different methods of treatment work on specific concerns. Cardiopulmonary physical therapy focuses on lung and heart issues like asthma, cerebral palsy, and post-heart attack rehabilitation. This is achieved through evacuating mucus and ventilating the lungs to ease breathing. Physical Exercises increase mobility of a patient. Musculoskeletal physical therapy adopts massage and joint mechanism to increase stringy, motor control and flexibility. Neurological, physical therapy works to restore balance, motor functionality, through repeated exercises for spinal injury patients, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease. Integumentary physical therapy uses scar prevention, scar reduction, and wound cleaning to help patients with burns, wounds and skin related problems.

Physical therapy can also be applied to a patient with chronic bed sores. Frequent strain relief prevents bed sores. A skin relieving cushion and a standard mattress with skin relieving features can alleviate this condition. Repositioning should be done in rounds of two hours.

The gains from physical therapy and occupational therapy are similar as they both focus on patient recovery of individual abilities. Physical therapy achieves this by working on case muscles, strength, power, balance and endurance. Exercises applied work on different muscles and movements and help a patient learn to move again. Occupational therapists help patients gain independence in daily activity. The physical therapist does the preparatory work and hands over to the occupational therapist.