History
PM&R began in the 1930s as a way to treat musculoskeletal and neurological conditions. Of note, PM&R took a lead role after World War II when disabled veterans or soldiers with physical impairments returned home. The specialty quickly grew as it attempted to help veterans restore function and return to their daily lives. In addition, during the 1940s and early 1950s physiatrists played a pivotal role in the treatment of individuals with Poliomyelitis.
Then called the American Society of Physical Therapy Physicians, AAPM&R was founded in 1938 in Chicago at the annual meeting of the American Congress of Physical Medicine. Walter Zeiter, MD, was elected executive director (a position he held for 22 years), and John S. Coulter, MD, was elected as the first president. In 1939, the Society was formalized in New York. The Society had 40 charter members including PM&R pioneer Frank H. Krusen, MD (AAPM&R president from 1941–1942). Membership was by invitation only and was limited to 100 doctors until 1944. In 1944, the Society’s name was changed to the American Society of Physical Medicine. In 1951, it became the American Society of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. The Academy’s current name was adopted in 1955.
Physiatrists today enjoy a broad spectrum of practices from serving as an NFL team physician to caring for Gulf War Veterans suffering from brain injuries, amputations, or other injuries.
Read more about this topic: American Academy Of Physical Medicine And Rehabilitation
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