The father of physiotherapy is generally recognized as Per Henrik Ling.
Per Henrik Ling (1776-1839) was a Swedish physical education instructor who founded the Royal Central Gymnastics Institute in Stockholm in 1813. This institute pioneered massage, manipulation, and exercise techniques, laying the foundation for modern physical therapy. His system, known as "Swedish Gymnastics," emphasized the importance of exercise and physical activity for health and well-being. While other forms of manual therapy and exercise existed before Ling, his systematic approach and institutionalization of these practices earned him the title of "father of physiotherapy."
