National Physical Therapy Timeline
460 BC
The father of medicine documented physical therapy
Hippocrates introduced the idea of manual manipulation for pain relief.
1887
Physical therapy was officially recognized
Sweden’s National Board of Health and Welfare officially registered physical therapists.
1921
Therapists got organized
Mary MacMillan, the first physical therapy aide, established the American Women’s Physical Therapeutic Association, which would later become today’s American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).
The 70s
Specialized therapies emerged
After orthopedic manipulative therapy gained recognition, more and more highly specialized fields appeared, including cardiopulmonary physical therapy, skin therapy, and sports therapy.
1992
A week became a month
National Physical Therapy Week, which was first observed in June of 1981, became National Physical Therapy Month.
Recommended Reading: Mary McMillan – The Mother of Physical Therapy (written by Mary Farrell and Marta M. Mobley
Physical Therapy provides you the opportunity to practice self-awareness. Physical Therapy assists in correcting your posture, reducing your aches and pains, and can help you recover more quickly from injury or surgery.
We asked our PTs to share more about themselves and their active lives. Their heartfelt responses show that this really is a profession worth celebrating!
Getting to know your physical therapist!
 |
You would be surprised to know I like remodeling houses, binge watching home improvement and house flipping shows like Good Bones, My Lottery Dream House, and others. In my spare time I enjoy traveling, gardening, walking on the beach, or hiking in the mountains. — Kathy |
 |
You would be surprised to know I have run several 5K, 10K, half marathons, and 3 marathons including the Boston Marathon. I enjoy working out, snowboarding and hiking in Lake Tahoe, and spending time with my family. — Kathryn |
 |
When I’m not at work I am binge watching shows, eating my weight in snacks, playing soccer/ hockey, thinking about my next travel destination. You would be surprised to know that I have a fear of speed bumps. But don’t worry, I’m slowly getting over it. — Adan |
 |
You would be surprised to know I am learning drums for 2 years and I continue to be amazed by how it challenges my motor learning! I practice Power Vinyasa and restorative form of Yoga with emphasis on core strength. I find relaxation in being with my family and friends. Grateful to be living in the Bay Area to soak in both the mountains and ocean. — Chaula |
 |
I am a Bay Area native, attended Bellarmine high school, UC Berkeley, and Samuel Merritt. Now, I spend the majority of my free time with my wife and young kids. I love traveling and my favorite vacations spots are Italy, Switzerland and Hawaii. Any action movie is a good one from The Godfather to Marvel movies. Every weekend you will find me walking my dog Ziggy or taking my kids to “Little Gym.” Every so often I connect with old friends to play DnD or just to chat online. When I am not busy being introverted, I may be catching a nap if my children allow it. — Jon |
 |
When I am not working, I am hiking and exploring new places and restaurants with my toddler and husband. I love to crochet too! Recently, I made and donated beanies and scarves to the homeless. — Kinjal |
 |
You would be surprised to know I am a former professional athlete. I played Badminton at the National level and was ranked #1 in the U-13 girls category and #2 in the U-16 category. I continue to play recreationally. Alongside recreational badminton, I enjoy watching tennis and soccer, playing ultimate frisbee, pickleball, and having a good swim. — Vinita |
 |
You would be surprised to know I am a cosmetologist, and have a Graphic Design degree. I am good at volleyball and bowling and love photography. When I am not working, I enjoy time with my mother and friends, painting, teaching myself to learn guitar, exercising, and nature walks. I like to do yoga and meditation for relaxation and happiness. My friends and family always say I am a caring, responsible person and passionate about learning and self development. I appreciate friendship and the people who surround me. — Niloo |
 |
You’d be surprised to know I love pampering my friends and family with a fabulous meal. When I’m not working, I enjoy movie nights and trips to wineries with my friends. Skydiving with my husband is on my bucket list. As a people person, I enjoy connecting with different cultures and backgrounds and have no trouble finding common ground.. — Priya |
 |
You would be surprised to know I enjoy learning about new languages and cultures. I am fluent in Hindi, Marathi, English, and Spanish. When not working I enjoy hiking, traveling, painting, reading, and spending time with my friends and family. — Meghana |
To read more about our therapists, check out last year’s posting:
“Why I Became a Physical Therapist”