Editors note: The following information about physical therapy was submitted by Erin Alley, PT at PRO Physical Therapy, in recognition of National Physical Therapy Month.

This years theme for observance of October as National Physical Therapy Month is Move Forward, with the goal of promoting and educating communities about the importance of physical activity. &bsp;

According to health experts, children and adults who participate in sustained daily physical activity and follow a balanced diet enjoy improved cardiovascular fitness, greater bone mass and strength and are better able to manage their weight all of which help prevent the onset of obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Movement as defined by Websters dictionary means 1) the act or process of moving and 2) a program or series of acts working toward a desired end.&bsp; Movement is essential to our daily lives and can be an integral part of maintaining health and wellness. &bsp;

Not moving enough or as well as you like? Whether it is morning stiffness from arthritis, inactivity and lethargy because of too much computer time or video games, tentative walking from a recent fall, or inability to engage in recreation because of recurrent strains or sprains, the prescription is often physical therapy. &bsp;

Physical therapists are trained to identify and treat movement dysfunctions and musculo-skeletal imbalances from disease or injury and to help establish safe and effective exercise programs for individuals of all ages, sizes and capabilities or limitations.

Physical therapists perform hands-on evaluations of a wide range of elements, including range of motion and strength, postural alignment, and gait/balance. These evaluations help them identify impairments that underlie movement dysfunctions resulting in pain syndromes, instabilities and decreased functional mobility. &bsp;

Educating people throughout their lifespans about ways to move better with increased ease and confidence, improved alignment and less pain and helping people achieve their optimal health and fitness is a goal of physical therapists.

Here are a few misconceptions about physical therapy:

I must have a doctors referral/prescription to have physical therapy.

False: North Carolina is a direct access state for physical therapy services.&bsp; A medical doctors prescription is necessary for Medicare coverage but many private insurances do not require a referral.&bsp; Cash payment for services is also always an option.

Physical therapy is only for people who are sick, hurt or who have had surgery.

False: Physical therapy can benefit anyone who wants to learn more about his or her body, identify muscle imbalances, and get help designing safe effective exercise programs to meet their individual goals of athletic performance, optimal health, weight loss, or fitness goals.

I have diabetes and physical therapy cant help me.

False: Between education about diet, foot care and precise exercise prescription, a physical therapist can help diabetics live with their disease and minimize its deleterious effects.

Children are fast healers they dont need physical therapy.

False: Children are very susceptible to recurrent injuries, especially because they often return to their sport or activity without addressing underlying imbalances. Physical therapists can identify deficits and instruct children and parents in proper and preventative stretching, strengthening, and agility exercises to maximize their performance and fun.