*This post was originally posted by Disability Work Tools.  Disability Work Tools (DWT)  makes adaptive tools readily available so people can independently perform hands-on tasks in spite of injury, aging or disabling condition. Check out their easy to navigate website, where they have a great Assistive Technology search function to find different types of AT by job, disability, or by tool type.

Why do we need both assistive technology and physical therapy?  At Disability Work Tools our focus is on assistive technology –  tools and devices to help a worker with a disability overcome physical limitations.  Assistive technology includes assistive, adaptive, and rehabilitative devices for people with disabilities and promotes greater independence by enabling people to perform tasks they could not do otherwise, or had great difficulty performing.

The American Physical Therapy Association explains the purpose of physical therapy very clearly on their www.moveforwardpt.com website as quoted here. 

“Physical therapists are experts in improving mobility and motion, and pain-free movement is crucial to your quality of daily life, your ability to earn a living, your ability to pursue your favorite leisure activities, and so much more.  

Movement can help you prevent obesity, which may be responsible for at least 18% of US adult deaths. Meanwhile, recent studies suggest that prolonged sitting can be unhealthy, and that walking just a little bit more each day can help reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. Consistent movement is also vital to maintaining a healthy balance system, and that’s important because falls often lead to significant, costly injuries.

Physical therapists work with their patients and clients of all ages and abilities to expand, restore, and maintain motion.“

So it becomes clear the value of both assistive technology and physical therapy.  Without physical therapy to help, workers may not be able to even operate the assistive technology.  Without assistive technology, workers may not be able to work at all and thus lose their motivation to keep moving forward with physical therapy. 

With AT and PT together, there is a formula for success in the workplace for people with disabilities!