special subjects
Physical Therapy (PT)
Introduction
Physical therapy aims to improve joint and muscle function (eg, range of motion, strength) and thus improve the patient’s ability to stand, balance, walk, and climb stairs. For example, physical therapy is usually used to train patients with lower-extremity amputations. On the other hand, Occupational Therapy (OT) focuses on self-care activities and improvement of fine motor coordination of muscles and joints, particularly in the upper extremities. (See also Overview of Rehabilitation .) 