The purpose of physical therapy is to help patients gain mobility and function within their environment. Most people are aware of the role of physical therapy in reducing pain and restoring function in patients with orthopedic disorders such as low back pain or knee surgery. Physical therapy also assists those patients recovering from strokes in learning to use their extremities and walk again. In fact, the physical therapists and physical therapist assistants at Laughlin work with patients across the whole span of life. From the newborn, to the very aged, all people have the need to move and function. Disease processes, congenital abnormalities, and accidents are common causes for loss of function.