A primer on physical therapy

Physical therapy is an important component of today's health care system. Although physical therapists can be found in many inpatient and outpatient settings, they frequently treat patients with common musculoskeletal problems referred by primary care providers. The physical therapy consultation involves an examination by the physical therapist, diagnosis, prognosis, and initiation of a plan of care that includes specific interventions. Specific interventions include therapeutic exercise, functional training, manual techniques, fitting for assistive devices, application of physical agents such as heat or cold, and electotherapeutic modalities. This article will focus on the use of the physical therapy process for common musculoskeletal problems seen in primary care.