Therapeutic exercises are targeted movements and physical activities designed to restore muscle and skeletal function, improve flexibility, enhance strength, and reduce pain. If you’re recovering from an injury or managing a chronic condition, your physical therapist may include therapeutic exercises as part of your personalized treatment plan.
Common types of therapeutic exercises include:
Range of motion exercises
Progressive resistive exercises
Balance training
Strength training
Aerobic conditioning
Breathing exercises
Perceptual training
The proven benefits of therapeutic exercises are well-supported by scientific evidence, showing significant advantages with minimal risks for most adults. As you heal and regain strength, your treatment plan will evolve and may be combined with other therapies such as manual therapy, electric stimulation, or heat and cold therapy. The primary goal of therapeutic exercises is to restore movement, function, and flexibility to help you achieve lasting recovery.