Musculoskeletal (orthopedic) physical therapists are able to diagnose, treat and help with prevention of pain and pathology due to problems with bones, muscles or soft tissues like ligaments, tendons and discs in the body. They promote and help maintain health, quality of life and fitness in all ages and populations.

The physical therapist will first perform a physical therapy assessment of the patient consisting of a subjective examination (interview) of a patient’s medical history and then provide an objective assessment in the form of a physical examination. These examinations will lead the therapist to a diagnosis which will guide them in what kind of treatment needs to be performed

A number of therapeutic modalities are then used in treatment of the physical therapy patient.  These include strengthening, functional training, motor control, balance, endurance and stretching and manual therapy techniques like joint mobilization and soft tissue massage.  Braces, orthotics and taping may also be appropriate with some patients to restore function.  Therapists also may employ mechanical modalities such as ultrasound, heat, ice, iontophoresis or electrical stimulation to promote healing and pain relief.