Physical therapy restores the strength, mobility, and flexibility of the body with a treatment plan consisting primarily of stretching, strengthening, and occupational exercises. The plan will gradually increase in difficulty until the desired goal is accomplished. Physical therapists are educated in anatomy and exercise sciences but are not medical doctors.
Orthopedic medicine is the practice of caring for the musculoskeletal system including bones, muscles, joints, ligaments, and tendons by a licensed physician. Orthopedic therapy will often utilize physical therapy as a part of a larger plan which may include medical imaging and possibly surgical intervention for issues like chronic foot, ankle, back and wrist pain, as well as broken bones, herniated discs, and scoliosis.
In both instances, orthopedic supports and compression garments are effective recovery aids commonly used in both practices.