I.

Introduction

Physical Therapy, scientific physical procedures used in the treatment of patients with a disability, disease, or injury to achieve and maintain functional rehabilitation and to prevent malfunction or deformity. Treatments are designed to minimize residual physical disability, to hasten convalescence, and to contribute to the patient's comfort and well-being. Physical therapy is prescribed for patients with varied orthopedic, neurological, vascular, and respiratory conditions, which may be the result of congenital malfunction, disability acquired through disease or trauma, or inherited dysfunction. Physical therapists are employed in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, clinics, nursing homes, and schools for handicapped children; in federal, state, and local health agencies; and in private practice. In addition to direct patient care, physical therapists are involved in other areas including consultation, supervision, teaching, administration, and research.