The History of Physical Therapy Month: Celebrating the Power of Movement

Every October, the healthcare community comes together to celebrate National Physical Therapy Month (NPTM), a time dedicated to recognizing the incredible work physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and students do to help others live stronger, healthier lives.

But how did PT Month begin? And why does it matter today? Let’s take a quick walk through the history and heart behind this celebration.

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How Physical Therapy Month Started

National Physical Therapy Month was first established by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) in 1981. Back then, it was actually celebrated in June, aligning with the APTA’s annual conference.

As the field grew and the movement for global recognition gained momentum, APTA made a meaningful change. In 1992, PT Month was officially moved to October, aligning with World Physical Therapy Day observed internationally every year on October 6.

This shift turned PT Month into more than just a national event, it became a global movement celebrating the vital role of physical therapy in health and wellness around the world.

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Why PT Month Matters

PT Month is a chance to shine a spotlight on the profession that helps people regain independence, improve mobility, and reclaim quality of life.

Physical therapists are often the unsung heroes of recovery; guiding patients through pain, injury, and uncertainty back toward confidence and movement. The celebration serves as a reminder of how essential PTs and PTAs are to the entire healthcare ecosystem, and how early intervention and active recovery can lead to better outcomes for everyone.

It’s also a great time to raise awareness about the variety of specialties within the field, from orthopedics and pediatrics to neurology, geriatrics, and beyond.

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How to Celebrate PT Month

There are many ways to join in the celebration, whether you’re a PT, a patient, or someone who simply appreciates the value of movement:

• Thank a PT or PTA who’s made a difference in your life.

• Share your story on social media using #PTMonth or #ChoosePT.

• Encourage others to explore a career in physical therapy.

• Support PT students and education programs in your community.

• Get moving! Organize or participate in a local wellness challenge or movement event.

Even a small gesture can make a big impact in celebrating the people who dedicate their careers to helping others move and feel better.

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Fun Facts About Physical Therapy

• The first PTs were known as “reconstruction aides” and began their work during World War I to help rehabilitate injured soldiers.

• Today, there are over 300,000 licensed PTs and PTAs in the United States.

• PTs can help manage more than 100 different conditions, from post-surgical recovery to chronic pain and neurological disorders.

• The average PT walks nearly 5 miles a day at work, proof that they truly live by the movement they promote!

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Celebrating the People Behind the Profession

This October, take a moment to recognize the therapists who keep our communities healthy, mobile, and thriving. Whether you’re a practicing PT, PTA, a student, or someone who’s benefited from physical therapy this month is for you.

At Ardor Health Solutions, we’re proud to support the PT professionals who make a difference every day, from clinics and hospitals to travel assignments across the country.

Here’s to the healers who keep us moving.
💙 Happy Physical Therapy Month!

#HealingOnTheFly