History of physical Therapy

1.Early Beginnings

460 BCE

Hippocrates, the "Father of Medicine," introduces the use of manual therapy and water therapy as a treatment for ailments, laying early foundations for physical therapy.

Early Beginnings

1813

Per Henrik Ling, a Swedish gymnast and the founder of medical gymnastics established the Royal Central Institute of Gymnastics in Stockholm, Sweden. Here, exercises were used to treat disease, marking the formalization of physical therapy as a profession.

Significant events

1886

Physical therapy has become officially recognized in Sweden. Physical therapists, called "rehabilitation aides," start treating patients with various conditions.

significant developments

1916

During the polio epidemic in the U.S., physicians begin prescribing physical therapy for recovery, leading to increased demand for physical therapists.

Significant Developments

1918

World War I propels the profession into prominence. “Reconstruction aides,” a precursor to physical therapists, treat injured soldiers, focusing on rehabilitation from war injuries.

Important events

1921

Mary McMillan, considered the "Mother of Physical Therapy" in the U.S., founded the American Women's Physical Therapeutic Association, which later became the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).

organizations/journals

1921

American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) is established. The association provides accreditation for PT programs and advocates for the profession.

Important events

1960

Physical therapists expand their roles, treating not just soldiers but also patients with neurological conditions (such as strokes) and children with cerebral palsy.