physical therapist

noun

plural physical therapists

: a person licensed to practice physical therapy : a health care professional who provides therapy to preserve, enhance, or restore movement and physical function that are impaired or threatened by disease, injury, or disability

… a physical therapist can show you exercises to maintain strength and movement in the affected area and may also use transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation …

—Self Healing

While activity may worsen pain, activity directed by physical therapists, which may be done in therapy sessions and sometimes at home, provides some relief.

—Schenectady (New York) Daily Gazette

—abbreviation PT

called also physiotherapist

Examples of physical therapist in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In addition to surgeons and nurses, our team includes swallowing therapists, a physical therapist, a dental care team and a dietitian to help address issues with swallowing, nutrition, dental health, physical function and mood. — Marci Lee Nilsen, The Conversation, 22 Oct. 2026

In an Orderly Fashion follows Rafa (Nuñez), a devoted physical therapist who dreams of traveling the world in retirement. — Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 21 Oct. 2026

The underlying practice, sometimes called contrast bath therapy or immersion therapy, alternates the body’s exposure to hot and cold water and has long been used by physical therapists, athletes and wellness enthusiasts, according to WHOOP. — Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 20 Oct. 2026

Afzal is his physical therapist, in charge of managing Waller’s training load, his overall plan. — Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 15 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1908, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for physical therapist

• physiotherapist
• psychotherapist

Kids Definition

physical therapist

noun

: a person who is a specialist in physical therapy

Medical Definition

physical therapist

noun

: a person licensed to practice physical therapy : a health care professional who provides therapy to preserve, enhance, or restore movement and physical function that are impaired or threatened by disease, injury, or disability

—abbreviation PT

called also physiotherapist