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Hippocrates, the "Father of Medicine," introduces the use of manual therapy and water therapy as a treatment for ailments, laying early foundations for physical therapy. -
Per Henrik Ling, a Swedish gymnast and the founder of medical gymnastics established the Royal Central Institute of Gymnastics in Stockholm, Sweden. Here, exercises were used to treat disease, marking the formalization of physical therapy as a profession. -
Physical therapy has become officially recognized in Sweden. Physical therapists, called "rehabilitation aides," start treating patients with various conditions. -
During the polio epidemic in the U.S., physicians begin prescribing physical therapy for recovery, leading to increased demand for physical therapists. -
World War I propels the profession into prominence. “Reconstruction aides,” a precursor to physical therapists, treat injured soldiers, focusing on rehabilitation from war injuries. -
Mary McMillan, considered the "Mother of Physical Therapy" in the U.S., founded the American Women's Physical Therapeutic Association, which later became the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). -
American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) is established. The association provides accreditation for PT programs and advocates for the profession. -
The rise of evidence-based practice has become a cornerstone in physical therapy. PT programs evolve to include research methodology, clinical trials, and patient-centered care.
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Bachelor's degree to a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) becomes the educational standard in the U.S. PTs must now complete a doctorate, along with passing the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for certification.
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Physical therapists must complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, typically requiring 3 years of graduate-level education, followed by passing the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) to be licensed in the U.S.