Victims of accidents or patients suffering from debilitating conditions have to be rehabilitated to help them function in day-to-day life. Physical therapy is required to help them regain mobility, acquire flexibility, and achieve balance and coordination. Very often, they have to be taught to walk again.

Physiatrists are doctors who engage in physical rehabilitation. They are trained to treat disorders that affect the function of a patient and often succeed in bringing about miraculous recoveries where modern medicine alone may not. Through a combination of medication, exercises, and rehabilitative training, physiatrists help a patient improve daily function.

Conditions treated through rehabilitative therapy include permanent disabilities caused by accidents, strokes, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, musculoskeletal disorders, and neuromuscular disorders. Such conditions usually have no cure, and rehabilitation is required to help the patient function optimally within the constraints of his disease. Rehabilitation involves identifying a patient's residual capabilities and strengths and working on them to help make his daily life easier. It relies not just on physical therapy but on other factors such a motivation, environment, and the attitude and assistance of caregivers.

Physical therapy is a very effective method to help children cope with problems ranging from traumatic brain injuries to developmental delays and muscle weakness. Apart from providing relief from pain, physical therapy can also effectively help a child tackle daily activities. A physical therapist will use techniques such as strength training, stretching exercises, balance and coordination activities, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound therapies to help the child resume normal function.

Physical therapists are specially trained and usually function out of hospitals, fitness centers, or rehabilitation centers. More than 7,000 physicians specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation are registered with The American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Physical therapy associations in various states will be able to provide a list of licensed practitioners in your area.

For millions of people across the world, rehabilitative physical therapy has helped enhance the quality of their lives and taught them to live with dignity again.