The APTA is largely guided by its vision, which is:

“Transforming society by optimizing movement to improve the human experience.”²

As a professional organization, the APTA helps the physical therapy profession by advocating (such as to Congress), publishing research regarding physical therapy, hosting professional conferences, educating the public about physical therapy, and providing guidelines to the physical therapy profession whether through clinical recommendations or regulations.³

The APTA plays a leading role for physical therapy on the national and international stages. For example, the APTA has helped provide important information, resources, support, and guidelines to physical therapists during the COVID-19 pandemic.⁴ Additionally, the APTA and its members worked hard to urge Congress to decrease the payment cuts it was set to enforce through the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.⁵

The APTA plays an important role in organizing professional events, including the Combined Sections Meeting (CSM).⁶ CSM is an annual conference attended by thousands of physical therapists, physical therapy assistants, and physical therapy students. It offers attendees the chance to learn about the latest research surrounding physical therapy, network with other professionals, and understand new opportunities regarding tools, equipment, and innovation within physical therapy.