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Physical Therapy month
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Posted on Oct 13 2000
At a recent luncheon, Saipan’s Physical Therapists were joined by colleagues in other rehabilitation disciplines for a dual celebration. Firstly, the CNMI Physical Therapy Practice Act has just been passed, requiring all persons performing physical therapy in the Commonwealth to be licensed.
This Act was passed in order to ensure that the public is protected from unlicensed individuals practicing Physical Therapy. Secondly, October has been designated as ‘Physical Therapy Month” by the American Physical Therapy Association, with the theme ‘Strengthen your future with Physical Therapy. During this month the public is encouraged to learn about the benefits of Physical Therapy.
Whereas many people are under the impression that one goes to a Physical Therapist for a massage, the fact is that Physical Therapists do not perform messages very often. Instead, using various stretches and deep pressure point techniques. Therapists release tight muscles, allowing them to relax. As the patients improve, therapists instruct them in exercise, enabling people to take an active part in the recovery process. The concept is that through exercise, posture retraining, and fitness, the patient can achieve life-long health and well being.
Physical Therrapists treat a wide range of problems including complications from premature birth and children with developmental or neuromuscular problems. People of all ages benefit from treatment of wounds, burns, joint pain, spinal cord injuries, stroke, recovery from surgery, and all types of sport injuries. Physical Therapists also work with people who are in need of a fitness program to enhance well being, fitness and quality of life.
Physical Therapists in the Commonwealth treat patients only after referral from a physician, dentist, physician’s assistant, or nurse practitioner. Most insurance companies will pay all or apart of Therapy when prescribed by a physician and performed by a licensed Physical Therapist.
