Why Such Little Recognition?
I've been thinking a lot lately about physical therapy in general. I feel as though there is not enough credit given to the profession. There is so much we do that other professionals only receive baseline or no knowledge about, yet it seems as though we struggle the most with reimbursement, direct access, and support/backing from other healthcare professionals as well as patients.
I question why this is. Is it our fault? Are we not taking a stronger enough stand? A poll was recently taken that a guest speaker came in and reported on stating that patients with back pain are more likely to seek OTC medications, athletic trainers, massage therapist, personal trainers, etc. before seeking physical therapy. I couldn't believe this!
I'm curious how is it that chiropractors have made it so high on the "totem pole" when they only focus on one part of the body and limited treatment techniques. Physical therapists work with the entire body-from the TMJ to the vaginal musculature (women's health) and everything else in between. We also work on multiple levels including impairment, functional limitation, and even pathophysiology (wound care works on the cellular level). We work with prevention, habilitation, and rehabilitation, a variety of ages from birth to hospice, and now there are even PTs who work with pets. It's amazing that such a phenomenal field gets such little recognition.