The Importance of Trauma-Informed Care: A Call to Action for Physical Therapist Practice, Education, Research, and Advocacy

Abstract

Trauma exposure is associated with a host of biopsychosocial effects, including premature mortality, compromised physical/mental health, substance misuse, and addiction; 90% of American adults report at least one significant lifetime traumatic incident. Disparate trauma exposure among people with physical disabilities, lower socioeconomic status, rural residence, and/or racial/ethnic minority status creates a strong rationale supporting trauma-informed care (TIC) in promoting health equity. Although physical therapist (PT) practice, education, and research do not routinely integrate TIC, public health needs and the opportunity to advance health equity compel greater professional involvement in addressing trauma and its impact on overall wellness. This perspective describes (1) the biopsychosocial impact of trauma; (2) screening and assessment of trauma exposure and its impact; (3) TIC in physical therapy practice; (4) the impact of unaddressed trauma; and 5) TIC in physical therapy education, research, and advocacy. Physical therapy professionals should apply this information to address the gap in trauma-informed care for individuals, families, groups, and communities.