Mary McMillian became known as the “Mother of Physical Therapy” due to her significant contributions to the profession. In the 1930s, men were also admitted and the first “Code of Ethics” was introduced. Physical Therapy became more widely expected as the demand increased due to the nationwide polio epidemic and World War II during the 1940s and 1950s. It was during this period that the association was renamed to the American Physical Therapy Association and the policies and sections were created to promote and develop specific areas of physical therapy (DiLibero, L., P.T.A., Physical …show more content…
Once one has completed all of that, the state requires physical therapists to be licensed. Licensing requirements vary by state, but all included passing the National Physical Therapy Examination administered by the Federal of State Boards of Physical Therapy (bls.gov/2015, December 17).
Physical therapists help injured or ill people improve their movement and manage their pain. Physical therapists are often an important part of rehabilitation, treatment and prevention of patients with chronic conditions, illnesses or injuries (bls.gov/2015, December 17).
The duties of Physical Therapists include:
Review patients’ medical history and any referrals or notes from doctors, surgeons, or other healthcare workers.
Diagnose patients’ functions and movements by observing them stand or walk aby by listening to their concerns, among other methods.
Develop individualized plans of care for patients outlining the patients’ goals and the expected outcomes of the plans.
Use exercises, stretching maneuvers, hands-on therapy and equipment to ease patient’s pain, help them increase their mobility, prevent further pain or injury and facilitate health and wellness.
PHYSICAL THERAPY