This comprehensive text provides a thorough and realistic overview of both the profession and the practice of physical therapy. The first half of the book introduces readers to key aspects of a career in physical therapy, such as physical therapy roles, practice settings, the APTA, and laws, policies, and regulations. The second half describes the practice of physical therapy, detailing the functions, disorders, and therapies of the major organ systems. Visually appealing, this text includes both classic photos that illustrate the history of the profession, as well as practical photos that demonstrate current physical therapy procedures. * This is the only introductory textbook to include an overview of both the profession and the clinical practice of physical therapy and physical therapy assisting. * Each chapter offers helpful learning tools, including a chapter outline, key terms, learning objectives, questions to ask, boxes, tables, summaries and up to date references, suggested readings, and review questions. * Features the latest information on current trends in health care and the profession of physical therapy such as laws and regulations, reimbursement, the roles of the PTA and PT, new terminology, and key concepts.