A physical therapist may use many different tools to promote healing and restoring function. Exercise increases the circulation. Exercises that target a specific area or muscle group bring oxygen-rich blood the injured tissues, aiding healing. Strengthening and stretching help restore function by increasing the targeted muscles capabilities. Manual techniques, such as joint mobilization and soft tissue mobilization, assist in healing by improving blood flow, reducing swelling, and increasing range of motion. Infra-red laser, ultra-sound, electrical stim, iontophoresis, ice, and heat are modalities that may assist the therapist by preparing the tissues for exercise and manual treatments or by reducing pain.

Physical Therapists are trained to treat a wide variety of musculoskeletal disorders, including injuries to the low back, neck, shoulders, elbows, wrists, hips, knees and ankles. Each area has its own unique set of characteristics which require unique treatment solutions. Industrial injuries are very similar to orthopedic or sports injuries.