The most basic difference between physical therapy and occupational therapy is that a PT focuses on improving the patient's ability to move their body whereas an OT focuses on improving the patient's ability to perform activities of daily living.

Orthopedics. The most popular physical therapy specialty is orthopedic physical therapy, which involves treating conditions of the bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons and joints.

What does physical therapy involve? Exercises to actively do certain movements make up a big part of physical therapy. These exercises improve your mobility (ability to move), coordination and muscle strength. The physical therapist shows you how to do the exercises and then you can do them yourself.