Exercise prescription in physical therapy is a personalized treatment approach where the physical therapist designs a customized exercise program tailored to the patient’s specific needs, goals, and physical condition. The primary aim is to restore function, improve strength, enhance flexibility, reduce pain, and prevent further injury. Exercise prescription is a crucial part of rehabilitation and recovery for a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and orthopedic conditions.

The physical therapist starts by assessing the patient's baseline level of strength, mobility, posture, and overall physical condition. From there, they develop an individualized exercise plan that may include a combination of strengthening, stretching, stabilization, aerobic conditioning, and neuromuscular re-education. Each exercise is carefully chosen to target areas of weakness, improve movement patterns, and promote proper muscle function. The therapist will also adjust the intensity, frequency, and progression of exercises as the patient improves.

Exercise prescription is commonly used to treat conditions such as back pain, arthritis, sports injuries, post-surgical recovery, and neurological disorders. By gradually building strength, improving joint function, and promoting tissue healing, exercise prescription helps patients return to daily activities, improve quality of life, and prevent future injuries. It is an essential component of physical therapy, ensuring long-term health and injury prevention through active participation and consistent practice.