An analysis of the results of studying physical therapy methods obtained for 300 years of existence of the Russian Academy of Sciences is presented. The first hundred years brought together attempts of physical therapy methods’ experiential studiyng, which led to the formation of physiotherapy in the late 19^th century. The synthesis of empirical knowledge allowed to form unifying theories of restorative and rehabilitation medicine in the 20^th century. The members of the academy have priority in identifying basic laws, effective technologies, and in creating domestic scientific schools and institutions. The article considers the main achievements of scientific schools, relevant directions of scientific studies’ development. Restorative medicine of the 21^st century is built on basic achievements in the research of molecular, cellular and integral mechanisms of physical factors’ therapeutic action, determination of the «targets» of their application in the body. The results of the assessment of physical factors’ targeted action will allow to significantly increase the effectiveness of their therapeutic and preventive action on the body.