What is the role of a physical therapist in patient care?

The role of a physical therapist in patient care primarily focuses on assisting patients in improving their mobility and managing pain through physical rehabilitation. Physical therapists are trained to evaluate a patient's physical abilities, identify functional limitations, and develop personalized treatment plans aimed at restoring movement and enhancing quality of life. They use a variety of techniques, including exercises, manual therapy, and modalities such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation, to promote healing and improve function.

This option highlights the core responsibilities of physical therapists in supporting patients to regain strength, flexibility, and endurance after injuries, surgeries, or chronic conditions. By focusing on rehabilitation, they empower patients to return to their daily activities, thereby improving overall health and wellbeing. Other roles, such as prescribing medications, providing nutritional guidance, or performing diagnostic imaging, fall outside the scope of physical therapy practice.