Happy PT Month!

The purpose of PT Month is to raise awareness about the benefits of physical therapy. Let's take a look at the history of modern physical therapy.

1918- Marguerite Sanderson and Mary McMillan were the first two individuals involved in the training of “reconstruction aides” responsible for caring for those individuals wounded in World War I. The first school of physical therapy was established at Walter Reed Army Hospital in Washington D.C. following the outbreak of World War I.

1921- Physical therapists formed the first professional association called the American Women’s Physical Therapeutic Association and Mary McMillian was president. Fun fact: annual dues were only $2!

1922- The AWPTA became the American Physiotherapy Association.

1950s- The Korean War again challenged physical therapists with the treatment of those with disabilities related to war wounds.

1969- The first two classes of physical therapist assistants (PTAs) graduated and entered the workforce.

1973- PT PAC committee was created.

1976- Amendments to the Social Security Act (SSA) in 1967 added a definition of “outpatient physical therapy services.”

1985- First exam for specialists held.

1992- First annual PT month

1996- First DPT class graduated.

2015- All 50 states had some type of direct access

2017- PT Compact was formed.

Currently, physical therapy is seen as a treatment option to turn patients away from prescription painkillers and reduce the misuse and abuse of pharmaceuticals. Physical therapy has a major impact in reducing healthcare costs by means of avoidance of surgery, unnecessary medical imaging, reduced pharmacy costs, shorter recovery times, and decreased likelihood for re-injury. Creating this timeline made me proud to be in this profession that has come a long way in just 100 years. As a new graduate, I can only imagine the possibilities that the profession has to grow as we continue on to advocate for the profession and most importantly, rehabilitate our patients.

Take some time today to celebrate you as a therapist, PT/PTA student, or even a pre-PT/PTA student. You are part of something great and be proud of that!