Many of us might only seek out physical therapists if we are recovering from accidental injuries or surgery. However, medical experts say these specialists can also help prevent many health problems if they are seen on a regular basis.

One leader in the industry, Sharon Dunn, even calls physical therapists “the best-kept secret in health care.” Dunn is the past president of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).

She recently told The Associated Press she thinks people need to look at physical therapists in a new way – as health practitioners who can help identify possible medical issues before they appear.

Other health experts share this opinion. They include Roger Herr, the current president of the APTA, and Gammon Earhart of Washington University in St. Louis. They both shared Dunn’s prevention message in separate discussions with the AP.