October is National Physical Therapy Month.
In the physical therapy profession, it’s news to no one that a majority of Americans lead a sedentary lifestyle. According to an AHA Journal, more than 80% of U.S. jobs are now centered around a desk and chair, a figure that’s up significantly from previous decades. A myriad of health risks are associated with prolonged sitting, like obesity, increased blood pressure, high blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol, and more.
The good news? Physical therapy professionals are uniquely placed to educate their patients, and the wider public, about the dangers of a sedentary lifestyle and the importance of movement.
In celebration of Physical Therapy Month (Oct. 1 to Oct. 31), the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) has announced this year’s theme: “Value of PT.” Its meaning goes beyond the costs savings of physical therapy to highlight the ways physical therapy improves quality of life. To support the theme, the APTA has compiled a collection of helpful resources for PTs and PTAs, including the following:
- Learn the economic value of physical therapy and the value it provides.
- Encourage community involvement with volunteer opportunities.
- Share health tips and activity ideas with your patients, provided by ChoosePT and the APTA.
To learn more about National Physical Therapy Month, visit the APTA website.