National Physical Therapy Month (NPTM) is an annual, nationwide observance dedicated to recognizing the physical therapy profession and its significant impact on health and movement. It highlights how physical therapists improve the quality of life for individuals across the lifespan by restoring function, reducing pain, and promoting overall wellness. NPTM serves as a time to appreciate physical therapists and physical therapist assistants, who are experts in movement. The month also aims to educate the public about the benefits of physical therapy, which often extend beyond simple rehabilitation.
Identifying National Physical Therapy Month
National Physical Therapy Month is officially designated as the month of October. The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) is the national sponsoring organization, promoting the observance across all states. The October timing was officially adopted in 1992, aligning the national observance with international recognition efforts. Previously, the observance was known as Physical Therapy Week and was celebrated in June.
The APTA uses the month to focus on the profession’s value, often through a national campaign, such as the widely known \#ChoosePT initiative. This campaign encourages individuals to consider physical therapy as a non-pharmacological option for managing pain and improving function.
The Founding Purpose and Significance
The initial celebration, established by the APTA in 1981, was originally a week-long observance focused on honoring physical therapists. The formal establishment of the month-long observance aligns the national recognition with World Physical Therapy Day, celebrated internationally on October 6th.
The fundamental purpose of NPTM is to promote the physical therapist as a movement expert who helps people maintain or regain independence and quality of life. This includes raising public awareness that the profession’s scope goes beyond post-injury rehabilitation, encompassing prevention and chronic pain management. A major theme promoted is the use of physical therapy as a safe and effective alternative to relying on opioid medication for pain relief. NPTM also emphasizes active living and a proactive approach to building strength and supporting long-term well-being.
How the Public Can Observe the Month
The public can actively engage with National Physical Therapy Month by seeking out educational opportunities and community events. Many local physical therapy clinics organize activities like free posture screenings, balance assessments, or movement workshops. These events provide basic health information and offer a direct way to learn about movement health and injury prevention.
The American Physical Therapy Association provides numerous resources, including informational downloads and social media toolkits centered around the annual theme. Individuals can follow the \#ChoosePT campaign on social media to access tips, patient success stories, and updates on the profession’s contributions to healthcare. People are also encouraged to advocate for their own movement health by discussing physical activity goals with a healthcare provider and recognizing the role of physical therapists in proactive wellness.