In physical therapy (PT), patients may be treated using a wide variety of techniques, including:

• Exercise therapy. This is the most frequently used type of PT. It is often used to treat chronic or acute pain. Based on the results of the initial evaluation, the physical therapist will determine the appropriate exercise mode, frequency, intensity and duration.

Treatment may include isometric, isotonic, aerobic and aquatic exercises. It can use a wide variety of exercises designed to improve strength, range of motion (ROM), coordination, endurance, balance and posture. Exercises may be active (patient controls movement without assistance) or passive (movement is achieved through manipulation by the physical therapist). Exercise therapy may be used in the rehabilitation of a wide range of medical conditions, such as strokes, joint replacements and ailments related to aging.

• Manipulation therapy. A variety of techniques used to produce passive movements that are not usually under the patient's control. It can include movement and massage therapy. Therapists may perform specialized techniques such as Neuro-Developmental Treatment to address neuromuscular deficits. Manipulation therapy can decrease pain and increase flexibility of joints and soft tissues. It is often performed in combination with exercise therapy.
  
  
• Thermotherapy (heat therapy). Often used in combination with other types of therapy, such as exercise and manual therapy. Moist heat can be relaxing and reduce muscle spasms and pain. Heat can be applied through the use of hot packs, moist towels, water bottles, ultrasound therapy, infrared lamps and paraffin wax baths. Hydrotherapy may be incorporated because warm water relaxes muscles and joints and promotes increased ROM.
  

• Cryotherapy (cold therapy). Applying cold to painful areas reduces neuromuscular transmission, pain and swelling. Cold can be applied through cold packs (a plastic pouch that is stored in the freezer), vapocoolant sprays (available at pharmacies) and ice bags.
  
  
• Electrotherapy (medical treatment using electrical currents). One type of electrotherapy used frequently to treat patients is transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). TENS uses low-voltage electrical current and is performed using a small, battery-powered machine. Two electrodes are connected from the machine to the painful area, creating a circuit of electrical impulses that travel along nerve fibers. When the current is delivered, some people experience less pain. TENS can be used with relieve pain from many medical conditions, including tendinitis and bursitis. Patients may be instructed in home use of TENS.

Shortwave diathermy uses high-frequency oscillating electrical current to raise the temperature in tissues. Large body parts, such as the back and thighs, and deep body parts, such as the hips, may be treated with shortwave diathermy. This type of therapy penetrates deeper into the tissue than traditional electrical and heat methods.

• Iontophoresis (introduction of medication into tissues beneath the skin using electricity) and phonophoresis (introduction of medication into tissues beneath the skin using ultrasound). These methods are sometimes used to treat conditions such as neck pain, back pain, rotator cuff injuries and arthritis.
  
  
• Traction (a procedure in which a mechanical device is used to correct fractures or dislocated bones, overcome muscle spasms or relieve pressure).

Most physical therapy incorporates a combination of therapies geared toward a patient’s specific condition. Therapy uses a wide variety of equipment including weights, exercise balls and bands. Examples of devices that are used to improve ambulation (walking) and mobility include parallel bars, training stairs, treadmills and balancing devices.

After completing treatment, physical therapists usually recommend additional exercises that can be completed by patients on their own. These exercises may be combined with general activities, such as walking or swimming.

For patients being discharged from hospitals, rehabilitation centers and other inpatient settings, physical therapists may perform a home evaluation, sometimes with an occupational therapist, to assess the individual's safety awareness, degree of independence, and need for any adaptive equipment (e.g., cane), home modification (e.g., wheelchair ramp) or additional therapy offered at home or at an outpatient center.