AR HR1042

Recognizes the American Physical Therapy Association for 100 years of dedication to improving public health, tracing the profession's origins to World War I reconstruction aides who treated soldiers.

Acknowledges key historical milestones including Mary McMillan's 1921 election as first president of the American Women's Physical Therapeutic Association and the establishment of physical therapy programs at major universities from 1960 onward.

Notes that physical therapists and assistants operate across 18 specialty areas including acute care, geriatrics, oncology, sports medicine, and pelvic health, treating patients in hospitals, clinics, homes, schools, and military facilities.

Highlights that physical therapy as a first-line treatment for conditions like low back pain reduces opioid prescriptions and improves health outcomes while addressing inactivity affecting over 80% of American adults and adolescents.

Recognizes physical therapists and assistants as essential partners in meeting future health needs, including their critical role in COVID-19 pandemic response and the association's 2020 Campaign for Future Generations to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion.