Episode 8: The REAL History of Physical Therapy

What is the true origin of physical therapy? Who were the trailblazers who shaped modern rehab? And how did war, epidemics, and policy create one of the most trusted healthcare professions in the world?

In this deep-dive episode of The PTCH Podcast, we explore the history of physical therapy through the lens of science, politics, social justice, and human resilience.

We begin with the influence of early Swedish movement systems and Per Henrik Ling, before traveling through time to spotlight Mary McMillan, the first American physical therapist, and the critical role of Reconstruction Aides during World War I. From the frontlines of war to the pediatric wards of the polio epidemic, physical therapy evolved not just as a treatment—but as a profession built on advocacy, access, and education.

You’ll learn how physical therapy gained legitimacy through Medicare and Medicaid legislation, how it expanded access via the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and how the movement from certificate programs to the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) transformed both training and professional identity.

💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

The origins of physical therapy in Europe and the U.S.

Why Mary McMillan is considered the "Mother of Physical Therapy"

The role of WWI and the polio epidemic in advancing rehabilitation science

How Medicare and Medicaid helped legitimize the PT profession

The connection between civil rights, healthcare policy, and PT education

Why the DPT degree matters—and what it means for the future of rehab

The ongoing push for direct access and autonomy in physical therapy

Drop a comment and tell us: Which moment in physical therapy history do you think had the greatest impact on the profession today?

Your insights help others discover the episode!

🔗 Want More?

🎧 Full podcast episode: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_G-AAPaE1FI0NMy-9frtvJ8hdkDyks2S

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👥 Share this video with a student, patient, or colleague who should know the true story behind physical therapy!

Chapters

00:00 The Origins of Physical Therapy

05:49 Trailblazers in Physical Therapy History

11:56 The Evolution of the Profession

17:58 Modern Developments in Physical Therapy

19:32 Rilee's Journey to College and Howard University

21:37 The Evolution of Physical Therapy

22:56 The Impact of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

24:35 The Rise of the Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree

27:29 Direct Access and the Role of Physical Therapists

30:42 The Importance of Title and Recognition in Healthcare

34:36 The Future of Physical Therapy Education and Practice

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