Celebrating National Physical Therapy Month

October marks National Physical Therapy Month—a time to celebrate and recognize the exceptional work of our Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs), educators, and researchers who are advancing the field every day. 

The origins of physical therapy date back to Hippocrates, who championed massage, hydrotherapy, and manual techniques to promote healing. Over the centuries, the profession evolved—shaped by pivotal moments such as the polio epidemic and World War I—into the dynamic and essential field we know today.

At Duke, our own legacy is a source of pride. Since its founding in 1943, the Duke Doctor of Physical Therapy program has stood among the nation’s leading PT education programs. We are committed to training expert clinicians and leaders, delivering exceptional patient care, and driving innovation through groundbreaking research.

This month, we honor the dedication, compassion, and expertise of our PT community. Their work transforms lives and continues to shape the future of physical therapy—through practice, education, and discovery—highlighting the power of physical therapy across one’s health span—emphasizing how PT supports lifelong wellness, recovery, and mobility from youth to older adulthood. At Duke, our physical therapists are proud to be part of this movement, helping patients thrive at every stage of life through evidence-based care, innovation, and compassionate support.

“Physical therapists play a vital role in helping individuals achieve and maintain mobility, independence, and quality of life across their lifespan. At Duke, we are deeply committed to preparing the next generation of PTs to lead with clinical excellence, compassion, and innovation. Our faculty and students are advancing the field through research, education, and practice—ensuring that our graduates are equipped to meet the evolving needs of patients and communities.”— Todd Cade, PT, PhD, FAPTA, Division Chief, Duke Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

We celebrate National Physical Therapy Month and recognize the remarkable contributions of our physical therapists and DPT faculty. Their impact is felt every day.