BUCKHANNON, WV – WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital recognized National Physical Therapy Month in October. This month is meant to raise awareness of the benefits of physical therapy and is also a time to appreciate our hard-working physical therapists and physical therapy assistants.

The theme for this year is the “Value of PT” because there are various ways physical therapy improves quality of life.  

Physical therapists are movement experts who improve the quality of life through hands-on care, patient education, and prescribed movement. Physical therapists create personalized treatment plans that help their patients improve mobility, manage pain and other chronic conditions, recover from injury, and prevent future injuries and chronic diseases.

Physical therapists and physical therapy assistants may teach people how to exercise for mobility, strength and coordination; train for activities such as walking with crutches, canes, or walkers; and use physical agents and electrotherapy such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation. They care for people of all ages and abilities. They empower people to actively participate in their own treatment. They work collaboratively with each other, and with other health professionals, to ensure patients receive the best care.