Industry Associations for Physical Therapy Careers

Article Written By: The Sider Group

Physical therapy careers is complex, highly essential medical field and has many areas of subspecialty with many types of practitioners working with various patients across the United States. Many people require the services of physical therapists, including people who have been in accidents or traumas and those with conditions such as congenital malfunctions, disabilities, diseases, inherited dysfunctions and orthopedic, neurological, vascular and respiratory conditions. Physical therapists also help people with prosthetic devices adjust to their new form of mobility, which is a particularly important service for wounded veterans.

Physical therapy industry associations help create unity among these professionals, spread the wealth of information that is available about new methods and technologies, assist students as they progress into the profession and enlighten the general public about the field. These are a few of the top industry associations for physical therapy careers that you should be aware of:

AAOP

The American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists is a specialized professional organization for physical therapists working in these sub-fields. Missions of the academy include advancing advocacy, collaboration, education, literature and research in the field in order to promote the profession and further its practice in the United States.

AAPT

The American Academy of Physical Therapy was established by fewer than 100 African American physical therapists in Chicago during September of 1989. Their goals were to address the many needs of African Americans in this professional field, which were previously not being met or even spoken of.

APTA

The American Physical Therapy Association, with more than 75,000 members, is the largest professional organization in the United States for physical therapists. Most states also have their own branch of the APTA, like the CPTA (California Physical Therapy Association) and the NYPTA (New York Physical Therapy Association). Members include those in the occupations of physical therapists and physical therapy assistants—and students of both professions. Organizational missions in the field of physical therapy include advancing awareness, research, education and understanding.

ASHT

The American Society of Hand Therapists is another highly specialized industry association that works specifically with the hands. ASHT members are licensed occupational and physical therapists that range in membership level from active members (Certified Hand Therapists), associate members (Occupational and Physical Therapists), affiliate members (Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy Assistants or Technicians) and student members.

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Find detailed information about top physical therapy colleges and physical therapy degree programs.

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