The Mission and Practice of Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is a dynamic profession with an established theoretical base and widespread clinical applications, particularly in the preservation, development, and restoration of maximum physical functions. Physical therapists seek to prevent injury, impairments, functional limitations, and disability; to maintain and promote fitness, health, and quality of life; and to ensure availability, accessibility, and excellence in the delivery of physical therapy services to the patient. As essential participants in the health care delivery system, physical therapists assume leadership roles in prevention and health maintenance programs, in the provision of rehabilitation services, and in professional and community organizations. They also play important roles in developing health policy and appropriate standards for the various elements of physical therapy practice (Guide to Physical Therapist Practice/Normative Model of Physical Therapy Education)