A physiotherapist works with a patient recovering from knee replacement, the exercises and techniques she provides essential to regaining mobility. Without physiotherapy, the surgery would be far less successful. An occupational therapist visits a woman recovering from stroke, assessing her home and teaching adaptations that will allow her to live independently. A dietitian counsels a diabetic patient on nutrition that will help manage his condition. A respiratory therapist manages ventilators in the ICU, expertise that keeps critically ill patients alive.