The Root of Therapy

Reflecting on this time of year & the spirit of Christmas & the Holiday Season, I recently rediscovered that the English word “Therapy” is rooted in the Greek word “Therapeia”.

Of the various translated definitions of this word, two caught my eye:

1. A Treatment for Healing, Curing (of the sick, aka. "to make well")
2. A Service done to the sick

I remember a while back, a motivational speaker referred to the Greek word “Therapeia” to confer a cultural meaning of healing, restoration, and improvement of one’s well-being. It is now widely accepted that health is not just the absence of disease but is a comprehensive state of well-being.

Contemplating on these thoughts, I reminded myself that there are many doctors in the world who care for many people in the scopes of their respective professions. There are allopathic physicians, osteopathic physicians, philosophy doctors, pharmacists, physical therapists, psychologists, optometrists, dentists, podiatrists, acupuncturists, chiropractors, naturopathic physicians, oriental medicine physicians, ayurvedic medicine physicians, family therapists… the list goes on and on.

I, myself, as a Doctor of Physical Therapy am ultimately a “therapeutic doctor” – a therapist; my services and skills must hold true to the root purpose of “therapeia” - healing, restoration, ... to make well. As a Physical Therapist, a compassionate understanding of the human experience is pivotal in being not only an effective clinician, but a welcome expert in the eyes of my patients & clients.

I encourage all to reflect on “Therapeia” – what it means to you – as a patient, client, or clinician, AND, what you are doing about it.

Season's Best To All,

-Dr. Fung