By Hanna Shekari
Currently in the world of Physical Therapy (PT), there are discussions about incorporating principles from Disability Studies (DS) into PT education. DS focuses on the social, cultural, and political aspects of disability, aiming to reshape perspectives on disability. However, with regards to PT as a discipline, some may argue that is still in the process of shifting from focusing on the medical model rather than the social model of defining disabilities. It was reported in 2016 by the World Confederation for Physical Therapy that there was a diminished awareness of barriers faced by people with disabilities (PWD) within physical therapy, prevalent in both educational and practice settings. 3
As DS emphasize the social model of disability rather than the medical model, integrating it into the education of physical therapy students can encourage them to gain a more holistic understanding of the lived experiences of individuals with disabilities. More importantly, in the long run, this can further encourage PT students to be advocates once they graduate since they would understand the societal barriers and systemic issues that individuals with disabilities face. They can play a vital role in advocating for accessible healthcare services, inclusive environments, and policies that support the rights and autonomy of PWD. Overall, they can contribute to creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
As a PT student at UIC, I’m incredibly grateful to be a part of the IL LEND program, as it has given me the opportunity to delve into a bit of DS and other imperative topics. Through community engagement and leadership development, the program has helped me cultivate a holistic understanding of disability, preparing me to be an effective advocate and leader in promoting inclusivity in healthcare. It has made me, professionally, become more confident and comfortable in treating all sorts of different types of patients and advocate for them, whether they have a disability or not. I sincerely hope other physical therapy programs provide an opportunity like this to their students.
1. Feldner H, Lent K D. Approaching Disability Studies in Physical Therapist Education: Tensions, successes, and Future Directions. Journal of Teaching Disability Studies. https://jtds.commons.gc.cuny.edu/approaching-disability-studies-in-physical-therapist-education-tensions-successes-and-future-directions/. Accessed January 4, 2024.
2. Herrman D. “Unsticking” Physical Therapy Education with Disability Studies: Exploring Tensions and Opportunities. ahs.uic.edu. Published October 21, 2021. Accessed January 5, 2024. https://ahs.uic.edu/inside-ahs/events/unsticking-physical-therapy-education-with-disability-studies-exploring-tensions-and-opportunities/
3. Sharp A, Herrman D. Disability and physical therapy: a complicated relationship, an uncertain path forward. Physical Therapy. 2021;101(7). doi:10.1093/ptj/pzab085
