The instinctive rubbing of a bruise or an ache is a basic form of physical therapy. As early as 3000 B.C., the Chinese used rubbing as a therapeutic measure. Hippocrates advocated it in his writings in 460 B.C. The Romans, as well as every other civilization, used it. Finally, in 1812, Peter Hanley Ling developed the first scientific basis for therapeutic massage.

But modern physical therapy in the United States was established by the Surgeon GeneralŐs office on August 22, 1917 with the inauguration of the Division of Special Hospitals and Physical Reconstruction. Persons assigned to this division were charged with not only physical reconstruction programs for the war injured, but educational and vocational training programs as well.

Working always in conjunction with physicians, they are valuable members of the health care team, trained to improve movement and function, relieve pain and expand mobility potential. Through evaluation and programs of treatment Physical Therapists can help existing problems and provide preventive health care for people with a variety of needs.

The role of physical therapy in present-day health care has become significant in the concept of total patient management. Because of advancements made, and improved research in treatments and techniques using diagnostics, an ever-increasing variety of conditions are being seen for consultation by a physical therapist.