A to Z of Therapies
Physical Therapy
January 4th, 2009
Physical Therapy (also known as physiotherapy) is an allied health profession concerned with the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of disease and disability through physical means. It is based upon principles of medical science, and is generally held to be within the sphere of conventional (rather than alternative) medicine.
The objectives of physical therapy are:
- Prevention of disability and pain
- Restoration of function and relief from pain
- Promotion of healing
- Adaptation to permanent disability
Physiotherapy is practiced by Physiotherapists (also known as Physical Therapists).
Pt's provide care in hospitals, clinics, schools, sports facilities, workplaces and more. They frequently partner with physicians who have medical expertise in neurology, neurosurgery, orthopædics, general surgery, family practice, pediatrics, geriatrics, rheumatology, internal medicine, urology, cardiovascular medicine, cardiopulmonary medicine, psychiatry, and sports medicine.
Qualifications in the United States
Physical Therapists must have a graduate degree from an accredited physical therapy program before taking the national licensure examination. Most educational programs now offer the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. All states (in the United States) require physical therapists to pass a license exam after graduating from an accredited physical therapist educational program before they can practice.
Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
Includes directory of Physical Therapists
www.apta.org
When Behind the Wheel this Holiday Weekend, Decide to Drive, September 2nd, 2011
