A physical therapist, or a PT, is a trained and licensed professional who treats patients who have sustained physical injuries or disabilities, either because of a serious disease or accident. A physical therapist evaluates clients and formulates a treatment plan to improve physical functioning, maximize the ability to walk or move, and reduce chronic pain.
Job Responsibilities
The goal of physical therapy is to allow a person to perform daily activities as independently as possible. A physical therapist accomplishes this through exercise regimens, practical strategies and training, and helping clients utilize assistive devices or electrotherapy. Typically, PTs work in hospitals, clinics, schools, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, doctors’ offices, fitness centers, or through home healthcare agencies. Some physical strength and dexterity is required since patients may need to be lifted or manipulated. Good communication and people skills are also necessary to keep clients motivated to continue with long-term treatment plans that may have incremental results. Here are some tips for how to become a physical therapist.
Education and Training
Those interested in becoming a physical therapist must complete a master’s degree in physical therapy (MS, MPT or MSPT) or a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. These are generally two- or three-year programs, respectively. A bachelor’s degree (BA) in biology, or coursework in biology, anatomy, physiology, chemistry, physics and statistics, is recommended before applying to a graduate program; having volunteer work at a physical therapy clinic on your resume will make you a stronger candidate. Accredited online physical therapist training programs offer flexible scheduling for those attempting to pursue a PT degree while juggling work and other obligations.
Graduate-level PT coursework includes advanced biological sciences, behavioral sciences, as well as training in evaluation, diagnosis, and assessment and therapeutic interventions and methods. Hands-on clinical training will also be required. Choose additional courses and training if you wish to qualify in a specialized physical therapy area such as pediatrics, geriatric care, sports medicine or neurology.
Physical Therapy License
It is mandatory for PTs to be licensed by their state. Most states require a degree from an accredited physical therapy program and passing the National Physical Therapy Examination. Check with your state’s licensing board for other requirements. In some states, physical therapists must take continuing education courses to keep their license current.
Job Opportunities and Salary
The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there will be an above-average increase in physical therapist jobs, given the aging population and breakthroughs in medical technology that widen the scope of possible therapeutic interventions. Working with students who have physical disabilities in school settings is another area of anticipated job growth in the PT field. PTs currently earn salaries between $50,000 and $100,000, with a median salary of $72,790.
During your physical therapist employment, you don’t work alone. You frequently consult with doctors and with other medical professionals and case managers. The physical rehabilitation therapy programs that you design for your clients may last for a week, a month, or even years. This is a job that requires patience, stamina and good problem-solving abilities. A career in physical therapy is demanding, but you will have many specializations from which to choose. The greatest reward will be seeing clients learn the skills they need to be more mobile, functional and independent.