Physical Therapy ( Pt ) And Occupational Therapy - 969 Words

Physical therapy (PT) and occupational therapy (OT) are two careers that help people heal and rehabilitate. PTs and OTs may seem similar at a glance, but they have just as many differences. The job descriptions and history vary, but the salary, and requirements are fairly alike. They both take much skill and expertise, but few people actually understand the difference between the two. Therapy is the treatment of disease or disability through rehabilitation processes. Both physical and occupational therapists treat patients who have injuries or disabilities. A physical therapist treats patients with specifically physical disabilities. They help patients recuperate from pain and injuries, and they are also a huge part of the†¦show more content†¦They help theses people relearn how to perform everyday activities, like getting dressed and brushing their teeth. PTs and OTs must both be strong, encouraging, and nurturing. For the patient, being unable to do something is frightening, and relearning how to do certain activities can be difficult. PTs and OTs are much needed encouragers and the quality of their work has developed throughout the years. Since day one, physical and occupational therapy have steadily progressed and evolved into crucial, prestigious careers. Physical therapy began around 460 BC. Hippocrates used hydrotherapy, which uses po ols or water for exercises and relief of pain, and massage treatment. Many universities started programs for massage and physical therapy. The industry grew during WWI because the war produced many injured soldiers who were in need of therapy. In 1921, the American Women’s Physical Therapeutic Association, later the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), was founded by Mary McMillan, who became known as the â€Å"Mother of Physical Therapy.† The APTA official website describes the APTA as a professional membership organization that funds and releases research and fights legal battles for PTs (Who we are). Throughout the years, physical therapy has become a respectable career and has, and will, continue to grow as more research and