physiotherapy

noun

phys·​io·​ther·​a·​py ˌfi-zē-ō-ˈther-ə-pē 

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 : physical therapy sense 1

Physiotherapy to strengthen specific muscles and treat injuries to ligaments and the meniscus.

—John C. Medlen

2

plural physiotherapies : a therapeutic treatment utilized in physiotherapy : physical therapy sense 2

Medicare currently will not pay for a chiropractor's consultation, physical examination, needed X-rays, physiotherapies, or exercise therapy.

—Statesman Journal (Salem, Oregon)

Examples of physiotherapy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Based on six modalities, spa, holistic health, fitness, physiotherapy, aesthetic beauty and nutrition – and offering almost 200 different sessions and treatments – the 15 retreat themes include a new one, Ageing Well. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026

Rupert is currently in the care of neurology, respiratory, cardiology, physiotherapy, speech and language, dietetic, hospice and community nurse care at two different hospitals. —Vanessa Etienne, PEOPLE, 25 May 2026

But after seeking advice from the club’s performance department in 2022, his physiotherapy and gym regimen was modified, along with his diet. —Roshane Thomas, New York Times, 6 May 2026

In rehabilitation and physiotherapy, the suit could guide patients through safe movements at home without constant supervision. —Omar Kardoudi april 13, New Atlas, 13 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

probably borrowed from French physiothérapie, from physio- physio- + thérapie therapy

Note: Earlier the term was used for treatment by outdoor exercise and natural agents, as air, light, and water.

First Known Use

1894, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for physiotherapy

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

Kids Definition

physiotherapy

noun

phys·​io·​ther·​a·​py ˌfiz-ē-ō-ˈther-ə-pē 

: physical therapy

Medical Definition

physiotherapy

noun

phys·​io·​ther·​a·​py ˌfiz-ē-ō-ˈther-ə-pē 

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 : physical therapy sense 1

2

plural physiotherapies : a therapeutic treatment utilized in physiotherapy : physical therapy sense 2