Later in the treatment, they encourage patients to use their own muscles to further increase flexibility and range of motion before finally advancing to weights and other exercises to improve strength, balance, coordination, and endurance. Physical therapists also use electricity, heat, cold, or ultrasound to relieve pain or improve the condition of muscles or related tissues or to reduce swelling. They may use traction or deep-tissue massage to relieve pain and restore function. Physical therapists document evaluations, daily progress, medical team conferences, and reports to referring practitioners and insurance companies. Such documentation is used to track the patient's progress, identify areas requiring more or less attention, justify billings, and for legal purposes.
Physical therapists treat and rehabilitate persons with injuries and disabilities.
Working Conditions Physical therapists work in hospitals, clinics, and private offices that have specially equipped facilities, or they treat patients in hospital rooms, homes, or schools. Most physical therapists work a 40-hour week, which may include some evenings and weekends. The job can be physically demanding because therapists often have to stoop, kneel, crouch, lift, and stand for long periods of time. In addition, therapists move heavy equipment and lift patients or help them turn, stand, or walk. Other jobs were in offices of physicians, home health agencies, nursing homes, and schools.