Move California is a public education campaign intended to inform and motivate Californians about the critical need for a vigorous, hearty lifestyle and the fundamental role that physical therapists play in helping people attain and sustain such a lifestyle.
"We couldn't have planned it better," said Dr. Patricia Evans, a physical therapist and the chief executive officer of CPTA. "The country's focus on safety during this month only reemphasizes the need for regular physical activity."
"People don't stop moving because they grow old," said Dr. Evans. "People grow old because they stop moving. As we grow older, we have a tendency to stop or cut back on our exercise and, as a result, injuries are more likely to occur."
Move California includes several public components, including educational elements and literature, as well as statewide and regional outreach campaigns. Currently, Move California includes two educational modules, which are supported by PowerPoint presentations, fact sheets, advertisements and literature: "Backpack Safety for Kids" and "Fall Prevention for the Aging Population." The next module will be centered on childhood obesity.
"The theme of National Safety Month is 'safety: where we work and play,'" Dr. Evans said. "We wholeheartedly agree. Research has clearly shown that physical activity produces a powerful and positive effect on our physical and mental capabilities."
"Regular physical activity, regardless of age," continued Dr. Evans, "improves our energy levels, helps keep our weight in check and decreases the possibility of developing unsafe habits."
According to the National Safety Council, more than $200 billion is spent annually across the country on wages, loss of productivity, medical expenses and insurance administration as a result of injuries. Data compiled by the council also revealed that 54 percent of all injury-related deaths occur in the home and community, while 45 percent happen to employees while off the job.
"Not only must we strongly encourage regular exercise, but the month's focus also points out that exercise must be conducted safely," Dr. Evans said. "Physical therapists teach people how to avoid injury through techniques such as proper stretching, appropriate lifting and strengthening and ergonomic training. Physical therapists are uniquely qualified and well-educated health care professionals who are experts in human movement."
The Physical Therapy Board of California licenses all physical therapists who work in California. In order to receive a license, physical therapists must graduate from an accredited physical therapy program and successfully complete supervised clinical internships at a hospital, rehabilitation treatment centers or other outpatient clinics.
"Physical therapists can definitely improve the lives of people through instruction and education," Dr. Evans said. For more information about Move California, contact Dr. Evans at the California Physical Therapy Association, 916-929-2782.
The California Physical Therapy Association exists to educate the people of California as to the attributes, benefits and value of physical therapy; meet the physical therapy needs of the people of California through the development and improvement of physical therapy education, practice and research; meet the needs of the Chapter members through identification, coordinated action, communication and fellowship.