October Is "National Physical Therapy" Month

ALBANY , NY (10/04/2012)(readMedia)-- October is "National Physical Therapy" month and the perfect time to test your physical therapy IQ. Most people have heard about physical therapy, know someone who has received therapy, or have even seen a PT themselves. But many people may not know that:

  • You do not need a referral to see a physical therapist in New York.
  • Physical therapy is a covered benefit under Medicare, workers compensation and most commercial insurance plans.
  • Physical therapists are highly trained clinicians and over 75% have a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree.
  • Physical therapists can help in the management of diabetes.
  • Physical therapy can trace it's roots back to Hippocrates father of western medicine who advocated "hands on" treatment including massage, manual therapy and hydrotherapy for the ancient Greeks.

"Most people only think about physical therapy for help with orthopedic issues such as a bad knee or shoulder or in relation to sports injuries. But physical therapy is much more than that -- it is a key component in the treatment of the full range of neuromuscular diseases and conditions," said Matthew R. Hyland, PT, DPT, and president of the New York Physical Therapy Association. "Physical therapy can help people walk after suffering a stroke, help people with rheumatoid arthritis complete everyday tasks such as cooking or writing and help people regain their stamina after a heart attack."

Physical therapy is a cornerstone in the treatment of many musculoskeletal and neurological conditions from arthritis to vertigo and from sprains, strains and fractures to stroke. It utilizes a variety of therapeutic techniques including manual therapy, exercise, balance training and patient education to relax, strengthen and heal muscles.

It's primary goal is to help maintain, restore or improve motion and mobility that has been impaired by disability, injury, or disease. It can also help eliminate pain in a wide range of conditions such as low back pain, tendinitis/bursitis, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, offering an alternative to costly medications and injections. In addition, by eliminating pain and restoring mobility it can help avoid the need for surgery. And, physical therapy can play a key role in any wellness program, helping to avoid future problems.

For more information about physical therapy and how it can help restore motion and mobility and enhance quality of life, go to www.moveforwardny.com.

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ABOUT THE NEW YORK PHYSICAL THERAPY ASSOCIATION:

The New York Physical Therapy Association is a professional, non-profit association of approximately 12,000 Physical Therapists (PTs), Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs) and PT/PTA students. The NYPTA is dedicated to serving the public's health interests, improving the standard of health for people of all ages and advancing the benefits of physical therapy and the interests of physical therapy professionals in state of New York. To learn more about the New York Physical Therapy Association please visit www.nypta.org.