Three quarters of a century of healing the generations.

Abstract

1921–1996—three quarters of a century of healing the generations; of tending to the needs of those afflicted with disease, disability, loss of function, and pain; and of preventing physical problems confronting our citizenry. What a spectacular time this is for the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) as we celebrate our diamond jubilee. The 75th anniversary is symbolized by the diamond—a pure, flawless stone of extreme hardness. The diamond connotes strength and durability; it represents on the one hand power and on the other hand beauty (Fig. 1). It has been indeed those qualities that have made this profession and this Association what they have been and what they will continue to be. Our history, our destiny, has been and will always be shaped by these qualities of resilience, skill, and magnificence.…