ALEXANDRIA, VA, March 17, 2008 — Physical therapists from the
Physical Therapy Association of Georgia (PTAG) promoted the benefits of
physical activity and the physical therapist's role in fitness and
injury prevention at their Monday, March 17, Capitol Fitness Clinic in the state capitol rotunda. PTAG members provided
assessments on blood pressure, balance, posture, and strength, as well
as posture during their golf swing.
"The Georgia Capitol Fitness Clinic offered an excellent opportunity
for area residents to get advice from licensed physical therapists on
maintaining healthy lifestyles and avoiding injury," said PTAG President
Anne Thompson, PT, EdD. "Participants enthusiastically attended the
event to have their balance and posture checked for healthier living -
and a safer, more effective golf swing."
Particularly popular at the state advocacy event was the golf-swing
analysis, in which state officials and staff showed off their swing
while physical therapists provided advice on balance, flexibility and
posture to avoid injury. PTs were also on hand to take blood pressure
and test participants' overall balance, posture, and strength. Fitness
clinics allow chapters to raise public awareness of the benefits of
physical therapy and the importance of physical therapy initiatives at
the state level.
Physical therapists are health care professionals who diagnose and
manage individuals of all ages, from newborns to elders, who have
medical problems or other health-related conditions that limit their
abilities to move and perform functional activities in their daily
lives. Physical therapists examine each individual and develop a plan of
care using treatment techniques to promote the ability to move, reduce
pain, restore function, and prevent disability. Physical therapists also
work with individuals to prevent the loss of mobility by developing
fitness- and wellness-oriented programs for healthier and more active
lifestyles.
The Physical Therapy Association of Georgia (PTAG) is a component of
the American Physical Therapy Association (www.apta.org), a national
organization representing physical therapists, physical therapist
assistants, and students nationwide. Its goal is to foster advancements
in physical therapist education, practice, and research. Consumers can
access "Find a PT" to find a physical therapist in their area, as well
as physical therapy news and information at www.apta.org/consumer.