The key role physical activity plays in just about every facet of health is well-known —yet an estimated 80% of U.S. adults and adolescents don't get enough. For this year's National Physical Therapy Month in October, we're highlighting the transformative role PTs and PTAs can play in making sufficient physical activity the rule, not the exception.
The focus on physical activity amplifies our latest ChoosePT public awareness campaign, launched in July, that will take the message directly to consumers. During National Physical Therapy Month, we have a unique chance to amplify that message by showing how physical therapy can help anyone make changes that can improve — even save — lives.
While it's true that COVID-19 safety precautions may make this year's efforts a little different from years past, there are still plenty of ways to shine a safe, socially distanced light on your profession. Here are eight easy things you can do.
1. Make it visual — and make it real.
Download our new physical activity graphics, handouts, and signs available in our ChoosePT toolkit, then share at your practice location or online.
2. Share consumer resources.
Visit ChoosePT.com to see what's available to share with patients or clients and members of the community, and connect them to the resources you think are the best fit.
3. Help consumers choose you.
APTA's Find a PT directory, a member benefit accessible at ChoosePT.com, makes it easy for consumers and other providers to filter results by location, practice focus, or specialization. Take time to sign up — if you're already signed up, make sure your information, such as telehealth options, is up to date. And add a headshot to enhance your profile.
4. Customize your phone, email, and virtual meetings.
This one's easy: Record an on-hold message for your clinic letting everyone know that it's National Physical Therapy Month, and download the logo to add to your email signature. You can also upload a larger, modified logo to use as a background image in your Zoom or Microsoft Teams meetings.
5. Keep the conversation going.
Follow us on Twitter (@Choose_PT) and Facebook (@ChoosePhysicalTherapy), and share our posts. Use #ChoosePT and #PTmonth in your related social media posts.
6. Share your expertise.
Offer to host an online webinar for the public, payers, and other health care professionals about the role of PTs and PTAs as movement experts for people of all ages and those living with chronic conditions or disabilities.
7. Get global.
Celebrate Global PT Day of Service on Oct. 10 by volunteering in your community. This is a special day for letting the profession's dedication to community service really shine. Visit the Global PT Day of Service webpage to explore virtual and socially distanced service project ideas.
8. Don't forget the swag.
Visit the APTA Store to pick up the latest in ChoosePT apparel, drinkware, and other items. Nothing like looking cool while delivering an important message.
Contact APTA's public and media relations staff at public-relations@apta.org with any questions.