Rehab Week champions the vital role of rehabilitation services every third week of September. This observance highlights the profound impact these programs have on individuals’ lives, empowering them to regain independence and improve their quality of life. Join us in recognizing the dedicated professionals and innovative therapies that make recovery possible, and explore ways to support those on their rehabilitation journey.
Want to sponsor Rehab Week? Learn how
Rehab Week timeline
The first ever National Rehabilitation Awareness Week kicked off.
The Alcoholic Rehabilitation Act became the first piece of federal legislation that formally recognized someone who suffers from alcoholism as having a sickness.
"The PT Review" featured the first ever published piece of physical therapy research in print.
The medical community officially recognized occupational therapy as a profession.
The first hospital created to solely treat alcoholism opened.
Rehab Week FAQs
When is Rehab Week?
Rehab Week 2026 runs from Tuesday, September 15 through Monday, September 21, acknowledging the profound impact of rehabilitation services.
How many people benefit from rehabilitation services?
Globally, hundreds of millions of people require rehabilitation services due to injury, illness, or disability. In the U.S. alone, millions receive physical, occupational, or speech therapy annually to regain function and independence.
What types of rehabilitation exist?
Rehabilitation encompasses a broad spectrum of therapies, including physical therapy for mobility, occupational therapy for daily living skills, speech-language pathology for communication, and cognitive therapy for brain function. Each aims to restore optimal function.
Is rehabilitation only for severe injuries?
No, rehabilitation is not solely for severe injuries. It benefits individuals recovering from surgery, managing chronic conditions like arthritis, or improving balance to prevent falls. It’s about optimizing function and preventing further decline.
How to Observe Rehab Week
Support the National Rehabilitation Awareness Foundation (NRAF)
The NRAF does lots of meaningful work. Why not show your support by making a donation or purchasing some National Rehabilitation Awareness Week swag that may be for sale?
Attend a lecture about rehabilitation services
Seek out a brief community lecture about a specific area of rehabilitation. A few examples: speech therapy, occupational therapy, speech language pathology, or even physical therapy.
Drop off baked good to hospital rehab staff
Show your appreciation to staff members who work so tirelessly to provide rehab services.
5 Intriguing Facts About Rehabilitation Services
A more holistic approach
Substance rehab services are recognizing the importance of incorporating yoga, mental health counseling, and nutritional programs into treatment options.
Physical ladies
In the beginning, women dominated the field of physical therapy.
No graduate degree required
Up until the 1990s only a bachelor's degree was required in order to perform physical therapy.
Basket weaving or therapy?
Occupational therapy originated from the practice of basket weaving.
Ancient Greeks and Occupational Therapy
Dating back to as early as 100 BC, Greek physicians used Occupational Therapy techniques.
Why Rehab Week is Important
National Rehabilitation Awareness Week acknowledges professionals in the field
These include the dedicated individuals who provide rehab services to people in need.
National Rehabilitation Awareness Week is a time to educate the public
The National Rehabilitation Awareness Foundation strives to highlight the positive impact that these services have in the lives of children, adults, and older adults alike.
This week acknowledges many different types of rehab services
Rehab can benefit a person physically, mentally, and spiritually. Whether someone is undergoing inpatient care following a major surgery or attends a therapy session once a week to correct a minor issue, rehab services are there to help be a guide on the road to recovery.
Rehab Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | September 15–21 | Monday–Sunday |
