National Physical Therapy Month
Move better during National Physical Therapy Month! Physical therapists help millions recover from injuries and manage chronic conditions. PT is essential healthcare that improves quality of life for all ages.
About National Physical Therapy Month
Move better during National Physical Therapy Month! Physical therapists help millions recover from injuries and manage chronic conditions. PT is essential healthcare that improves quality of life for all ages.
History & origins
National Physical Therapy Month is an American observance promoted by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). APTA says the first National Physical Therapy Month was celebrated in October 1992, evolving from earlier Physical Therapy Week observances that had been requested as far back as the mid-1960s. It is observed each October to raise awareness of the role physical therapy plays in movement, recovery, and lifelong health.
Why it matters
National Physical Therapy Month highlights how physical therapists and physical therapist assistants help people recover from injury, manage pain, and stay mobile at every age. It also draws attention to prevention and wellness, which can improve quality of life and help people avoid more intensive care in some cases.
How to celebrate
Thank your physical therapist. Learn about PT benefits. Try PT exercises. Support mobility awareness. Share PT success stories.
Facts
- Over 350,000 physical therapists work in the US
- PT helps avoid surgery for many conditions
- Physical therapy treats all ages from infants to elderly
- PT reduces long-term healthcare costs
- Movement is medicine for countless conditions
Frequently asked questions
When is National Physical Therapy Month in 2026?
National Physical Therapy Month is in October 2026. The observance runs for the full month, with October 1, 2026, marking the start date on many calendars.
What is National Physical Therapy Month?
It is a monthlong awareness observance focused on the benefits of physical therapy. The goal is to educate the public about movement, rehabilitation, pain management, and healthy aging.
Who started National Physical Therapy Month?
The American Physical Therapy Association popularized it. APTA says the first National Physical Therapy Month was celebrated in October 1992 after earlier Physical Therapy Week observances.
How do you celebrate National Physical Therapy Month?
You can thank a physical therapist, share a PT success story, or learn more about mobility and recovery. Many people also use the month to try safe exercises recommended by a licensed physical therapist.
Is National Physical Therapy Month an official holiday?
No, it is an awareness observance, not a public holiday. It is led by the physical therapy profession rather than by a federal holiday designation.
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