ABSTRACT
The World Confederation for Physical Therapy (WCPT) gave the following description of physical therapy/physiotherapy at its 14th General Meeting in May 1999: Physical therapy/physiotherapy is providing services to people and populations to develop, maintain, and restore maximum movements and functional ability throughout their lifespan. Physical therapy includes the provision of services in circumstances when movement is threatened by the process of aging or that of injury or disease. Physical therapy/physiotherapy is concerned with identifying and maximizing movement potential, within the spheres of
• Promotion • Prevention • Treatment • Rehabilitation
Physical therapy is an essential part of health services delivery system. Physical therapists practice independently of other health care providers and also within interdisciplinary rehabilitation-habilitation programs for the restoration of optimal function and quality of life in individuals with loss and disorders of movement. The WCPT states that physical therapy is the service provided only by, or under the direction and supervision of, a physical therapist and includes assessment, diagnosis, planning, intervention, and evaluation.
