Physical therapy, also known as physiotherapy, is a medical specialty that focuses on restoring, improving, and maintaining the physical function and mobility of the body. Physical therapists are medical professionals who specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating musculoskeletal and neurological disorders, as well as other health conditions that affect the movement and functioning of the body.

Here are some of the main tasks and treatment methods of physiotherapists:

1. Assessment and Diagnosis: Physical therapists assess patients to identify the cause of their physical complaints and limitations. This includes conducting a thorough assessment of range of motion, muscle strength, flexibility, coordination, and general bodily function.

2. Treatment of Musculoskeletal Disorders: Physical therapists treat a variety of musculoskeletal disorders, such as back pain, neck pain, joint pain, muscle strain, sprains, tendonitis, and osteoarthritis. They use a variety of treatment techniques to reduce pain, improve range of motion, and restore overall function.

3. Neurological Rehabilitation: Physical therapists also work with patients who have neurological conditions, such as strokes, brain injuries, multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's, and nerve damage. They help restore movement, balance and coordination through specific exercises and therapies.

4. Rehabilitation after injury or surgery: Physical therapists guide patients through their recovery after injury or surgery, such as orthopedic surgery, sports injuries, or postoperative rehabilitation. They help patients regain their strength and function and learn to cope with any permanent limitations.

5. Functional Exercises: Physical therapists often focus on improving functional movements needed in daily life, work, or sports. This includes teaching proper posture, lifting techniques, and movement patterns.

6. Pain management: Physical therapists can use a variety of techniques to reduce pain, including manual therapy, massage, heat and cold therapy, electrotherapy, and acupuncture.

7. Education and prevention: Physiotherapists provide patients with advice and education on how to manage their condition, prevent future injuries, and promote healthy exercise and lifestyle.

Physical therapy is a multi-faceted discipline that focuses on promoting recovery, maximizing function and improving patients' overall quality of life. It plays an important role in restoring physical health after injury, illness or surgery, helping people to optimize their activities and participation in daily life. Physiotherapy is suitable for people of all ages and can be adapted to the individual needs of each patient.