(NAPSA)—Thereis good newsfor those wholive with pain or struggle with mobility. There is a medical profession dedicated to providing them with relief—physical therapy. From treating a sprain to helping someonerecover from a stroke, physical therapists are trained and committed to helping people ents Oat, improve their quality oflife. Extensive Education Manyare unaware that physical therapists are required to complete extensive graduate studies that lead to a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. This program is comprised of three to four years of postbaccalaureate study in basic and applied science, clini- I 2 : ~ cal science, social science and Like other medical professionals, some physical therapists are generalists while others special- In addition, many physical therapists pursue even more the body. research methods. It also involves a rigorousclinical internship. education and training by participating in a physical therapyresidency or fellowship program for an additional nine to 36 months. Further, physical therapists must be licensed by the state in which they practice, as well as take continuing education courses throughout the course of their careers. Generalists And Specialists Like other medical professionals, some physical therapists are generalists while others specialize in treating specific areas of the body—the back, neck or knee—or ize in treating specific areas of A Variety Of Settings These medical professionals provide care in a wide variety of settings: hospitals, private offices andclinics, schools, rehab centers, and even at homeif the person is homebound. Physical therapy is covered by most commercial and government health insurance plans, including Medicare. In addition, all 50 states ican Board of Physical Therapy and the District of Columbia now allow direct access to physical therapy, which means you don’t need a referral from your physician to be evaluated and treated by a physical therapist. So the next time your lower back gives you pause when you bend down to pick up the Sunday paper, or pain is keeping you off the golf course or tennis court, or you're just not moving the way you sports, geriatrics, pediatrics, car- with a physical therapist, the medical expert in motion and mobility. concentrate their practice to cer- tain types of conditions, such as sports injuries, stroke, pediatrics or women’s issues. Physical therapists may also chooseto be certified by the AmerSpecialties in one or more of these eight specialty areas: orthopedics, diopulmonary, neurology, clinical electrophysiology and women’s health. want to, make an appointment To learn moreorfind a physical therapist, visit the website www.moveforwardny.com. Note to Editors: October Is National Physical Therapy Month.
