Celebrating Women’s History Month: The Powerful Origins of Physical Therapy
- Christina Serzan, PT, DPT
- Mar 3
- 2 min read
March is Women’s History Month, a time to recognize the groundbreaking contributions women have made across industries — including healthcare. At Physical Therapy Services, we’re especially proud to honor the remarkable history of our profession, which was largely shaped and pioneered by women — and to continue that legacy as a women-owned, family-run business.
The Origins of Physical Therapy: A Woman-Led Movement
Modern physical therapy in the United States began during World War I. As soldiers returned home with injuries requiring rehabilitation, the demand for trained rehabilitation specialists surged. In response, the U.S. government recruited and trained women as “Reconstruction Aides” to provide physical rehabilitation to injured service members.
These women were among the first formally trained physical therapists in the country — and at the time, the profession was almost entirely female. Their work laid the foundation for what would become a respected and essential healthcare field.
One of the most influential figures in the development of physical therapy was Mary McMillan, often referred to as the “Mother of Physical Therapy.” In 1921, she helped establish the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), originally named the American Women’s Physical Therapeutic Association. This organization created standards for education, ethics, and professional practice that continue to shape the profession today.
Breaking Barriers in Healthcare
At a time when many professional roles were closed to women, physical therapy offered a path to leadership, education, and clinical excellence. Women not only dominated the field in its early years — they built it.
From hospital wards to rehabilitation centers, early physical therapists developed techniques in therapeutic exercise, massage, and functional mobility that remain foundational in modern treatment. Their compassion, innovation, and commitment to patient recovery set the tone for generations to come.
Continuing the Legacy at Physical Therapy Services
As a women-owned and family-operated practice, Physical Therapy Services is proud to reflect the very roots of our profession. Leadership, compassion, and dedication to patient-centered care are not just values we uphold — they are part of our story.
Being family run means we treat every patient the way we would treat our own family members: with respect, honesty, and individualized attention. Being women owned means we honor the trailblazers who paved the way for this profession by fostering an environment of empowerment, mentorship, and community connection.
We are proud to carry forward the same spirit of service and resilience that defined the early Reconstruction Aides — supporting healing, restoring movement, and strengthening lives.
Honoring the Past, Empowering the Future
This Women’s History Month, we celebrate the women who transformed rehabilitation care into the dynamic profession it is today. Their courage opened doors. Their leadership built institutions. Their dedication continues to inspire healthcare providers across the country.
At Physical Therapy Services, we are honored to stand on their shoulders — continuing a proud tradition of women-led excellence while serving our community with heart, expertise, and family-centered care.
If you’d like to learn more about how physical therapy can support your health and recovery, contact our team today (973)835-6115. We’re here to help you move forward — stronger than ever.
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