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Early Stages of Physical Therapy
The practice of physical therapy was first introduced between 1914-1917 during the first world war. There was a high demand for treating soldiers' with injuries after the war. The first physical therapists graduated from Reed College and Walter Reed Hospital and were known as reconstructing aides. -
Outbreak of Poliomyelitis
In 1920's and 1930's there was an outbreak of poliomyelitis in America and this lead to young women who were trained in massage, remedial exercise and physical education to help these disabled children. This promoted the application of physical therapy techniques. -
Formation of the American Women's Physical Therapeutic Association
In 1921 physical therapists created their first organization. This organization was led by President Mary McMillan. When the organization was first formed it only had 274 members. (The association then change their name to American Physiotherapy Association or APA for short) -
Hill Burton Act of 1946
In 1946 the Hill Burton Act created more hospitals in America in order to help the returning soldiers who were injured and recovering from war. This increase in hospitals then led to the increase of practicing physical therapist around the country. This was all a result of World War II and the increasing amount of injured soldiers that were returning home. -
Evolution and Development
The development of physical therapy was because of the injuries sustained by soldiers in the world wars. Since advancements in medicine were stopping soldiers from dying from the injuries they sustained. This evolution made the physical therapists develop educational and training programs that led to physical therapy becoming a profession. In 1967 the Social Security Act added definitions for outpatient physical therapy services. -
Specialization
In 1974 in the US, the Orthopedic Section of APTA was formed. This was created by physical therapists who specialized in orthopaedics. This helped to get physical therapists out of hospital settings and into their own outpatient clinics. They were also able to move to elderly homes, universities and rehabilitation centers. -
Development of Technology
Around the 1980's the when the use of computers became widespread in medical science, there were several devices invented and used to help patients. One of the devices was the electrical stimulator, and it increased the effectiveness of the treatment. Not only did technology help with treatment but it also effected the research that was able to be done.
