What is a primary goal of enhancing patient functional abilities in physical therapy?

Enhancing patient functional abilities in physical therapy primarily aims to improve the patient's quality of life. This goal encompasses helping patients regain independence in daily activities, enhancing their physical capabilities, and reducing pain or discomfort associated with movement. By focusing on functional abilities, physical therapists can help individuals achieve personal goals related to their mobility, allowing them to engage more fully in life, whether that means returning to work, participating in recreational activities, or simply managing basic daily tasks more effectively.

While increasing patient referrals, reducing healthcare costs, and extending therapy duration can be considered benefits or secondary outcomes of effective physical therapy, they do not directly align with the primary therapeutic goals. The foremost intent of treatment is to enhance the patient's ability to function, thereby significantly improving their overall quality of life.