Section 34-24-191

Definitions.

(a) For the purposes of this article, the following words and phrases shall have the meanings respectively ascribed by this section:

(1) PHYSICAL THERAPY. The treatment of a human being by the use of exercise, massage, heat, cold, water, radiant energy, electricity or sound for the purpose of correcting or alleviating any physical or mental condition or preventing the development of any physical or mental disability, or the performance of neuromuscular-skeletal tests and measurements to determine the existence and extent of body malfunction; provided, that physical therapy shall be practiced only upon the referral of a physician licensed to practice medicine or surgery and a dentist licensed to practice dentistry and shall not include radiology or electrosurgery.

(2) PHYSICAL THERAPIST. A person who practices physical therapy.

(3) PHYSIOTHERAPIST. Synonymous with the term "physical therapist," and said term shall be used to identify only those persons registered under this article. The physical therapist may use the letters "P.T." or "R.P.T." in connection with his name or place of business to denote his registration hereunder.

(4) PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT. A person who assists in the practice of physical therapy and whose activities require an understanding of physical therapy but do not require professional or advanced training in the anatomical, biological and physical sciences involved in the practice of physical therapy. The physical therapist assistant shall practice only under the direction of a registered physical therapist.

(5) PHYSICAL THERAPY TECHNICIAN. Synonymous with the term "physical therapist assistant," and said term shall be used to identify only those persons licensed under this article. The physical therapist assistant may use the letters "L.P.T.A." in connection with his name to denote his being licensed hereunder.

(6) BOARD. The Board of Physical Therapy established by Section 34-24-192.

(7) FOREIGN TRAINED PHYSICAL THERAPIST. A person trained or educated in the practice of physical therapy outside of the United States or any of its territorial possessions.

(b) Words importing the masculine gender shall include the feminine.

(Acts 1965, No. 476, p. 686, §2; Acts 1969, No. 622, p. 1128, §1; Acts 1982, No. 82-189, p. 218, §4.)