Physical Therapist
A physical therapist (PT) is a healthcare professional specializing in evaluating and treating individuals with physical impairments or disabilities that hinder mobility and daily activities. PTs utilize a variety of techniques, including exercise, manual therapy, and electrotherapy, to create personalized treatment plans aimed at restoring physical function, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life. They work in diverse settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, and private clinics, often collaborating with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care.
To become a physical therapist, one typically needs a doctoral or professional degree in physical therapy and must be licensed to practice. The profession is characterized by a strong demand for services, with employment growth projected at 14%, which is faster than average for all occupations. Physical therapists engage in hands-on patient care, conducting assessments and developing treatment strategies, while also managing administrative tasks such as documenting patient progress.
Individuals drawn to this field often exhibit strong interpersonal skills, physical stamina, and a commitment to continuous learning. As PTs work with a wide range of patients, including those recovering from injuries or living with chronic conditions, they play a crucial role in helping individuals achieve greater independence and improved functional abilities.
Physical Therapist
Snapshot
Career Cluster(s): Health Science
Interests: Anatomy and physiology, biology, sports medicine, physical education, psychology, health science technology
Earnings (Yearly Median): $99,710 per year $47.94 per hour
Employment & Outlook: 14% (Much faster than average)
Entry-Level Education Doctoral or professional degree
Related Work Experience None
On-the-job-Training None
Overview
Sphere of Work. Physical therapists (PTs) provide therapeutic services to patients who have temporary and chronic physical conditions or illnesses that limit physical movements and mobility, thereby negatively affecting patients’ lives and work. When working with patients, a physical therapist may use techniques such as therapeutic exercise, manual therapy techniques, assistive devices, adaptive devices, hydrotherapy, and electrotherapy. Physical therapists develop patient treatment plans designed to help maintain or recover a patient’s physical mobility, lessen pain, increase productivity and independence, and improve quality of life.
Work Environment. Physical therapists work in rehabilitation facilities, hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and physical therapy clinics. In medical environments, physical therapists work with a team of medical and social service professionals to increase a patient’s physical abilities and overall independence. In school settings, physical therapists partner with educational professionals, such as teachers and special education coordinators, to address a student’s physical issues. Physical therapists generally work a standard forty-hour workweek, and scheduled appointments are the norm.
Occupation Interest. Individuals attracted to the field of physical therapy tend to be physically strong people who enjoy hands-on work and close interaction with people from diverse backgrounds. Those who excel as physical therapists exhibit traits such as physical stamina, problem-solving, empathy, patience, and caring. Physical therapists should enjoy learning, stay knowledgeable about changes in therapeutic techniques, and expect to work as part of a team to address patient needs effectively.
A Day in the Life—Duties and Responsibilities. A physical therapist’s daily duties and responsibilities include full days of hands-on patient interaction and treatment, as well as administrative duties. Physical therapists’ patients include those experiencing physical limitations and effects from neck and spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injury, arthritis, burns, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, strokes, limb or digit amputation, or work- or sports-related injuries.
As medical or therapeutic professionals, physical therapists interact with patients or clients on a daily basis and strive to understand the particular challenges faced by each individual. Treatment typically includes a blend of physical techniques and emotional encouragement since the patient may be in the process of adjusting to a major life change. Some of a physical therapist’s daily responsibilities include conducting patient assessments, developing patient treatment plans, and providing physical treatment to patients with severe physical limitations. Physical therapists frequently advise patients on the use of adaptive equipment, such as wheelchairs and orthopedic aids. Some provide early intervention services to young children experiencing physical delays and limitations. Others may offer consultation on or participate in building customized adaptive equipment for patients with special needs not met by existing options. Physical therapists also instruct individuals and groups on physical exercises to prevent injury, lead fitness and health classes and workshops, and counsel patients on physical adaptations that can help them continue to work at their chosen occupations. They may also supervise the activities of physical therapy assistants and aides.
During treatment, a physical therapist will consult with a team of physicians, educators, social workers, mental health professionals, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and other medical professionals to help ensure that each patient receives comprehensive care.
A physical therapist’s administrative responsibilities include documenting treatment sessions and ongoing patient evaluation. Physical therapists must draft treatment plans, record notes following patient treatment sessions, provide written updates to the other members of a patient’s treatment team, and provide insurance companies with patient records and progress notes as required. Independent physical therapists who do not work as part of a school or medical clinic may also be responsible for scheduling appointments and for submitting bills to insurance companies or patients.
Work Environment
Immediate Physical Environment. Physical therapists work in rehabilitation facilities, hospitals, nursing homes, therapy clinics, and schools. Therapeutic office settings used by physical therapists may be shared with other therapeutic professionals, such as occupational, recreational, or speech and language therapists.
Human Environment. Physical therapists work with patients who use physical therapy to improve their strength and mobility, as well as their independence and quality of life. This may include people experiencing balance and strength issues caused by cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, or muscular dystrophy; stroke victims experiencing coordination problems or paralysis; and children or adults suffering the physical effects of injuries, abuse, or accidents. Physical therapists usually work as part of a patient treatment team that includes patient families, social workers, teachers, doctors, and additional therapists.
Technological Environment. Physical therapists use a wide variety of technology in their work. Computers and online communication tools are widely used in physical therapy work and practice. Specialized therapies, such as electrotherapy, hydrotherapy, and ultrasound therapy, require technical equipment and training. In addition, physical therapists must learn how to use and teach the use of adaptive devices, such as wheelchairs and orthopedic aids.
Education, Training, and Advancement
High School/Secondary. High school students interested in pursuing the profession of physical therapy in the future should develop good study habits. High school courses in biology, psychology, anatomy, sociology, and mathematics will prepare students for college- and graduate-level studies. Students interested in the physical therapy field will benefit from seeking internships or part-time work with physical therapists or with people who have physical issues that affect their range of movement or daily life.
Postsecondary. Postsecondary students interested in becoming physical therapists should complete coursework in physical therapy, if possible, as well as courses on occupational therapy, special education, biology, psychology, anatomy and physiology, sociology, and mathematics. Prior to graduation, college students interested in joining the physical therapy profession should apply to graduate-level physical therapy programs or secure physical therapy-related employment. Those who choose to pursue a doctoral degree tend to have better prospects for employment and advancement in the field, and everyone intending to find employment as a physical therapist must acquire a license, regardless of the state in which they are seeking employment. Membership in the American Physical Therapy Association may help provide postsecondary students with networking opportunities and connections.
Related Occupations
− Occupational Therapy Assistant
Bibliography
"Becoming a Physical Therapist." American Physical Therapy Association, www.apta.org/your-career/careers-in-physical-therapy/becoming-a-pt, Accessed 26 Sept. 2024.
"Physical Therapist." Cleveland Clinic, 7 Mar. 2024, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24625-physical-therapist. Accessed 26 Sept. 2024.
"Physical Therapist." Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, 2023, college.mayo.edu/academics/explore-health-care-careers/careers-a-z/physical-therapist/. Accessed 26 Sept. 2024.
"Physical Therapists." Occupational Outlook Handbook. Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor, 29 Aug. 2024, www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physical-therapists.htm. Accessed 26 Sept. 2024.