About · Institute
History of Physiotherapy
From ancient healing arts to modern evidence-based rehabilitation — the remarkable journey of physiotherapy.
Physiotherapy — also known as physical therapy — has a rich history spanning centuries. Understanding this history helps us appreciate the evidence-based, compassionate healthcare profession it has become today.
Ancient Beginnings
Hippocrates and Galen are said to have been the earliest practitioners, recommending massage, manual therapy, and hydrotherapy to heal patients.
Orthopedics Era
Following the advent of orthopedics, devices like the Gymnasticon were invented to cure gout through systematic joint training — an early form of physical therapy.
Royal Central Institute
Per Henrik Ling, the "Father of Swedish Gymnastics," created the RCIG for manipulation and exercise — the oldest known professional foundation of physical therapy.
Official Registration
Sweden officially registered Physical Therapists through the National Board of Health and Welfare. Other nations quickly followed.
Chartered Society Founded
The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy was founded in Great Britain by four nurses — establishing the profession's first formal organisation.
NZ Academic Program
The University of Otago, New Zealand established one of the earliest academic physiotherapy programs.
World War I Impact
Women were recruited to restore physical function of injured troops. Physical therapy became an institutionalised specialty — the term "Reconstruction Aide" coined.
First PT Research Published
The first physical therapy research published in "The PT Review." Mary McMillan founded the American Women's Physical Therapeutic Association (now APTA).
Specialisation Era Begins
Spinal and extremity manipulation became common in British Commonwealth countries. Physical therapists spread across hospitals in North America and Europe.
World Physiotherapy Founded
The World Confederation for Physical Therapy (WCPT) was created — an international professional organisation. In 2020 renamed to "World Physiotherapy."
Formal Specialisation
PT specialisation began in the US with the APTA Orthopaedic Section. IFOMPT was also founded the same year, formalising manipulative therapy specialisation.
A Global Profession
Physiotherapy is a globally recognised healthcare discipline practiced in hospitals, sports, community, corporate wellness, and research institutions worldwide.
Be Part of This Legacy
Join Sai Care College of Physiotherapy and carry forward this incredible tradition of healing.