physical therapy

noun

1. the treatment or management of physical disability, malfunction, or pain by exercise, massage, hydrotherapy, etc., without the use of medicines, surgery, or radiation.
2. the health profession that provides such care.

physical therapy

noun

1. another term for physiotherapy

Other Words From

• physical therapist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of physical therapy¹

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

They’re still used in physical therapy clinics, hospitals and gyms around the country.

From Los Angeles Times

It touts specialists in both Eastern and Western modalities as well as an on-site physical therapy clinic.

From Los Angeles Times

They did say, however, that raising him would be costly, with visits to specialists, physical therapy and modifications at home.

From Los Angeles Times

The physical therapy office never returned my calls.

From Los Angeles Times

With two more months of physical therapy, he is expected to be able to walk normally.

From Los Angeles Times