The major professional organization for physical therapists is the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), located at 1111 N. Fairfax St., Alexandria, VA 22314. 800-999-APTA. www.apta.org.

The Illinois Chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association (IPTA) is the state professional organization. The IPTA address is 1010 Jorie Boulevard, Suite 134, Oak Brook, Illinois 60523. 630-571-1400. www.ipta.org

Students are urged to join the American Physical Therapy Association as part of their new professional role. Members receive the journal, Physical Therapy, as well as newsletters and other professional literature. Students are also encouraged to attend the meetings of their local IPTA districts. Applications for APTA membership are available in the department head's office.