physiotherapy
noun
phys·io·ther·a·py
ˌfi-zē-ō-ˈther-ə-pē
1
: therapy that is used to preserve, enhance, or restore movement and physical function impaired or threatened by disease, injury, or disability and that utilizes therapeutic exercise, physical modalities (such as massage and electrotherapy), assistive devices, and patient education and training : physical therapy sense 1
Physiotherapy to strengthen specific muscles and treat injuries to ligaments and the meniscus.—John C. Medlen
2
plural physiotherapies
: a therapeutic treatment utilized in physiotherapy : physical therapy sense 2
Medicare currently will not pay for a chiropractor's consultation, physical examination, needed X-rays, physiotherapies, or exercise therapy.—Statesman Journal (Salem, Oregon)
Cite this Entry
“Physiotherapy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/physiotherapy. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.
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