Philosophy of the I.A.P.T.

The Physical Therapist registered with the I.A.P.T follows the philosophy of the profession:

• I.A.P.T. members offer a client centered approach which forms the core of the Physical Therapy healthcare model.
• The integrity of our clients which includes their well being and wishes are of upmost importance at all times.
• I.P.A.T. members are at all times aware of and acknowledge the role of the medical profession in the care of the individual
• I.P.A.T. members acknowledge the individuals own physiological healing capabilities and intervenes to stimulate and enhance this process.
• Physical Therapy values the benefits of a whole body, hands-on and natural approach in its musculoskeletal assessment and treatment
• The use of palpatory skills is an integral part of Physical Therapy
• Physical Therapy incorporates the best of scientific assessment techniques and utilitises a wide variety of therapeutic manual (soft tissue and articular) techniques consistent with the highest international standards from leading UK, American and Australian schools.
• Client education and awareness of his / her musculoskeletal and dysfunction, and an understanding of its development and prevention, is a vital part of I.P.A.T. members approach.
• Physical Therapy involves the critical evaluation of a treatment approach and the ability to select and modify therapeutic interventions as to meet the changing needs of the individual
• Injury prevention is a vital concept within Physical Therapy

Development of Physical Therapy in Ireland

In 1991 the Irish Association of Physical Therapists (I.A.P.T.) was established as the Professional Body ensuring excellence in the field of musculoskeletal health.

The I.A.P.T represents its members who practice Physical Therapy throughout Ireland. In the late eighties demand was growing for a whole-body, hands-on and natural approach in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders.

To meet this demand, the Institute of Physical Therapy & Applied Science was founded, becoming the first and only school of Physical Therapy at that time, in Ireland. Since then and in conjunction with leading UK, American and Australian schools, the I.A.P.T. has pioneered a three – year Physical Therapy degree course. The school is unique in Ireland and provides a competency-based education and practical training in a working clinic along side theoretical instruction. Physical Therapy as practiced by its members has developed over the past 13 years as a separate and distinct form of assessment, treatment and management of musculoskeletal disorders.