Therapeutic Exercise

Therapeutic exercise is a physical therapy intervention encompassing a broad range of activities designed to restore or improve musculoskeletal, cardiopulmonary and/or neurologic function.

Depending on the patient or client’s level of ability, age, endurance, the severity of injury and or stage of recovery, the physical therapist will use their specialized knowledge to determine what is appropriate. Exercise may be passive, active or resisted in nature while respecting any precautions indicated with a particular diagnosis.


Physical therapists use therapeutic exercise as one component of patient care to improve functional ability and general well-being in those who are experiencing limitations or disability due to a disease, disorder, trauma, or surgery.