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

As the weeks passed, Martinez began physical therapy and went back to work. —Ruby Cramer, New Yorker, 12 Mar. 2026

The key to an optimal recovery is a gradual return to activity, including wearing a sling after the surgery and physical therapy. —NBC news, 11 Mar. 2026

Both are treated at Gaylord Specialty Healthcare with physical therapy and attend a monthly support group there that’s open to all in the community. —Pamela McLoughlin, Hartford Courant, 10 Mar. 2026

Leg Extension The leg extension is an excellent knee-strengthening exercise and a staple of many physical therapy programs. —Jakob Roze, Health, 9 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1901, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for physical therapy

• immunotherapy
• pharmacotherapy
• physiotherapy
• radiotherapy
• brachytherapy
• chemotherapy
• cryotherapy
• hydrotherapy
• hypnotherapy
• monotherapy
• phototherapy
• psychotherapy

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