The toll of multiple deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan on soldiers' bodies and how physical therapy can help them keep "doing their job, living their lives with as little pain as possible," is highlighted in a New York Times article featuring APTA member CPT Rachel Odom, PT.
Odom is the only physical therapist (PT) assigned to the 3,500 men and women of the Fourth Brigade Combat Team of the 25th Infantry Division serving in Afghanistan. Odom manages the soldiers for "twisted knees, back pains, or shoulder strains," injuries associated with elaborate body armor that can add "at least 35 pounds to a soldier's load," and concussions sustained by roadside bombs.
Army Ranger units were the first to include PTs, rather than have them stay back at the hospital or in separate medical units. But now with their success, PTs have spread into mainstream combat units. Odom is the first PT assigned to her brigade, says the Times.
This sounds very beneficial to help maintain optimal function of our soldiers. I wonder if the therapists are all enlisted or if they use civilian personnel?
Posted by Rick Evans, PT
on 6/4/2012 11:05 AM
It is good to know that we are continuing to provide health care to al of those who are serving and improving their functional capabilities. I am sure there are plenty of heroes that have received great care from our profession.
Posted by Heidi Harris
on 6/27/2012 7:34 AM