Interventions like hydrotherapy and manual therapy have been around for thousands of years, however, modern physical therapy is a relatively young profession.  But it still has a very rich history dating back to the early 1900s.  

Physical therapists were called Reconstruction Aides back then, but the mission and purpose was largely the same as it is today: improving physical function to create a positive change in the lives of the patients.

This “Throwback Thursday” section is a collection of interesting historical artifacts that tell the story of physical therapy.  If you have any artifacts of value to share, please contact jennifer@theptstudent.com.

1918: Train to Be a Reconstruction Aide at Reed College

This brochure outlines the Reconstruction Aide program – including the height, weight and age requirements for women wishing to attend!    

1920 Starting Salary for a Physical Therapist: $1800 … A YEAR!

Check out this advertisement for a physical therapist offering an annual salary of $1800.  Keep in mind that in 1920, the average annual salary was $1100 and the average home price was about $8100.  

We are not the first Doctors of Physical Therapy!

Columbia University in Washington, D.C. was offering a Doctor of Physio-Therapy in 1922; well before the first DPT was awarded 70 years later.