Physiotherapists are autonomous healthcare professionals who treat and manage both acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions, as well as other conditions affecting movement and function like diabetes and heart disease. The history of physiotherapy began after WWI with Reconstruction Aides and the establishment of the American Women's Physical Therapeutic Association in 1921. In Malaysia, the Malaysian Physiotherapy Association was formed in 1963 under the global governing body, WCPT. Physiotherapists work in many areas like musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, neurology and pediatrics, and have opportunities in knowledge-based, institution-based, community-based and special areas of practice.