Fiona McMahon PT, DPT
Mary McMillan, Mother of American Physical TherapySeptember 8th is World Physio Day! Phyisos aka “Physical Therapists†as they are are called in the States, help people in many different ways. In America, the founding mother of physical therapy was Mary McMillan. In 1922, she founded the American Physiotherapy Association. Physical Therapists started their profession in the early 1900’s as rehabilitative professionals called, Reconstruction Aids, to help with the influx of injured soldiers during the first World War. Early physical therapists also worked to help rehabilitate patients who had suffered the debilitating effects of polio. Throughout the years the reach of the physical therapist has broadened to incorporate the treatment of many different conditions. In many states, like New York, which has limited direct access, physical therapists can evaluate and treat patients without direct orders from a physician. Currently, Physical Therapists graduate with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy, although there are experienced clinicians in the field who still hold Masters and Bachelors in Physical Therapy. When we graduate, we are generalists, capable of entering most settings and developing our skills in a particular speciality. As we develop our skills we may chose to become specialists in a particular skill. Some of the specialities physical therapists work in, include:
- Geriatric Rehab*
- Orthopedic Rehab*
- Sports Rehab*
- Pelvic Floor Rehab*
- Neurological Rehab
- Wound Care
- Cardiac Rehab
- Pediatric Rehab
- Pediatric Pelvic Floor Rehab*
- Lymphatic Drainage Rehab*
*Indicates services provided at Beyond Basics Physical Therapy As physical therapists, we are honored to be able to participate directly in improving the quality of life of our patients. If you feel you could benefit from any of the specialities listed above, either give us a call to schedule an appointment or find a clinician on the APTA website below. Happy World Physio Day! APTA Find a PT: http://aptaapps.apta.org/findapt/default.aspx?UniqueKey= Sources: APTA History. http://www.apta.org/History/. Assessed: September 31, 2016 Moffat M. The history of physical therapy practice in the United States. Journal of Physical Therapy Education. 2003.
