physical therapy

noun

1
: therapy that is used to preserve, enhance, or restore movement and physical function impaired or threatened by disease, injury, or disability and that utilizes therapeutic exercise, physical modalities (such as massage and electrotherapy), assistive devices, and patient education and training
abbreviation PT

called also physiotherapy

2
plural physical therapies : a therapeutic treatment utilized in physical therapy
[Andrea] Behrman said the center's work consists of physical therapies aimed at "retraining" the spine in an effort to improve strength and mobility.Deborah Yetter
abbreviation PT

called also physiotherapy

Examples of physical therapy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Over the past two years, the rescue dog has regained some strength through dedication and physical therapy. Kelli Bender, People.com, 30 Jan. 2025 In addition, physical therapy can make a big difference, by helping to improve flexibility and muscle balance, but lifestyle changes matter just as much. Sandra Rose Salathe, Flow Space, 29 Jan. 2025 Exercise and physical therapy often are part of treatment, too. Cindy Krischer Goodman, Sun Sentinel, 28 Jan. 2025 And—as MacDowell has learned—physical therapy can also be big. Korin Miller, SELF, 24 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for physical therapy 

Word History

First Known Use

1901, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of physical therapy was in 1901

Dictionary Entries Near physical therapy

Cite this Entry

“Physical therapy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/physical%20therapy. Accessed 12 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

physical therapy

noun
: the treatment of disease, injury, or disability especially by massage, exercise, water, or heat

Medical Definition

physical therapy

noun
1
: therapy that is used to preserve, enhance, or restore movement and physical function impaired or threatened by disease, injury, or disability and that utilizes therapeutic exercise, physical modalities (such as massage and electrotherapy), assistive devices, and patient education and training
abbreviation PT

called also physiotherapy

2
plural physical therapies : a therapeutic treatment utilized in physical therapy
abbreviation PT

called also physiotherapy

More from Merriam-Webster on physical therapy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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