ANDREWS AFB, Md. –
At one time or another, we have all experienced aches, pains, stretches or strains. Whether it is from the effects of training for your fitness test or an "old sports injury", the phrase "ouch, that hurts" comes to mind.
This is where the Physical Therapy clinic comes to the rescue. Physical therapy plays an important role in the management of acute and chronic musculoskeletal injuries. Their specialized evaluation and treatment skills are vital to returning individuals back to duty or back to their favorite activity.
The specialty of physical therapy was established during World War I with the inauguration of the Division of Special Hospitals and Physical Reconstruction by the Surgeon General's Office. Some 2,000 reconstruction aides restored function to patients with disabilities in Army hospitals and to those with poliomyelitis.
Today, with over 173,000 physical therapists in the United States and 138 in the Air Force, physical therapists provide health care services to patients of all ages and health conditions. The ultimate goal of the physical therapy field is to relieve pain and restore function. This is achieved by utilizing an array of exercises, treatments to include heat and cold, as well as splints or braces. Physical therapy promotes general health and fitness, postural improvement, workplace and industrial safety and health. Across the spectrum of health care, physical therapy works to treat nearly everyone from infants with birth defects to aid their motor development and functional ability to patients with burns and wounds to prevent abnormal scarring and loss of movement.
In recognition of Physical Therapy Month, the 779th Medical Group Physical Therapy Clinic is proud to host an open house Oct. 3 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The purpose of this open house is to demonstrate and explain what physical therapy is all about. It is also an opportunity for the clinic staff to meet our customers and allow base personnel to come by so they can understand what our job entails and how we can help people.
The phrase "A Step in the Right Direction" is coined from the Positive Promotions slogan in recognition of Physical Therapy month.