What is a physical therapist?
A physical therapist is a healthcare expert who helps people get back their ability to move and stay active. This job is super important for those who’ve been hurt, are sick, or have trouble moving around because they’re getting older. They work to make sure people can move better with less pain, helping them regain strength, flexibility, and balance.
PTs teach exercises that help improve how you move, lower the chance of getting hurt, and keep you fit. They work with all kinds of people, from sports players and older folks to kids who need a little extra help with their physical skills.
Duties and responsibilities
Physical therapists figure out what each person needs to move better. They set up a plan with exercises and activities tailored just for that person. They keep an eye on how well the plan is working and make changes when needed. They also teach people and their families how to do exercises at home and give tips on handling pain or other long-term issues.
Work environment
PTs can be found in many places like clinics, hospitals, rehab centers, or even schools. Some might visit patients at home. Their workplaces are usually nice and tidy, with all the equipment they need, like exercise bands and special tables.
Physical therapists are pretty active at work. They show how to do exercises, help patients move the right way, and sometimes need to help lift or support someone.
Typical work hours
They usually work full-time, but part-time jobs are also available. They might work days, evenings, or weekends, based on where they work and what their patients need. Those in hospitals might have longer or more varied hours, while those in schools usually have the same hours and summers off.
How to become a physical therapist
Becoming a PT means helping people get back on their feet and enjoy life to the fullest! Here’s the straight-up path to getting there:
Step 1: Earn a bachelor’s degree
Start by going to college and earning a bachelor’s degree. It’s smart to choose a major like biology or exercise science because you’ll need to know a lot about how the body works.
Step 2: Apply for a DPT program
Next, you’ll want to get into a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, which is where you’ll learn all the cool stuff about physical therapy. These programs can be competitive, so keep those grades up and gather some strong recommendations!
Step 3: Finish the DPT program
In the DPT program, which lasts three years, you’ll dive deep into learning about how to help people with different health issues. You’ll also get the scoop on the rules and ethics in healthcare.
Step 4: Do clinical internships
While in school, you’ll get to practice what you’re learning by working in real physical therapy settings. This is your chance to get hands-on and see what the job is really like.
Step 5: Pass the big test
After school, you’ll need to pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) to show you’ve got the skills to do the job.
Step 6: Get your license
Once you pass the NPTE, you’ll apply for a license in your state. This might include some extra tests, depending on where you live.
Step 7: Land your first job
Now the fun part—starting your career! You could end up working in hospitals, clinics, or even schools. Use your connections, hit up job boards, and send out your resume to find your first gig.
Step 8: Think about specializing
If you really want to focus on a certain area, like sports injuries or working with older adults, you can get extra training and become a specialist. This means even more learning and another test, but it’s a great way to do what you love most.
How much do physical therapists make?
PT salaries vary by experience, industry, education, location, and organization size. The level of specialization, such as pediatric physical therapy or sports physical therapy, can also significantly impact their compensation.
Highest paying industries
- Home Health Care Services: $102,440
- Specialty Hospitals: $99,860
- Employment Services: $99,650
- Outpatient Care Centers: $98,400
Highest paying states
- Nevada: $107,920
- California: $102,110
- New Jersey: $100,770
- Alaska: $99,980
- Texas: $99,220
The average national salary for a Physical Therapist (PT) is:
$98,320
Types of physical therapists
PTs do amazing work in helping people feel better and move better. Here are some of the cool areas they specialize in:
Orthopedic physical therapist
These pros are all about bones, muscles, and joints. They help everyone from athletes who have injuries from playing sports to older folks dealing with arthritis. They’re like the muscle and bone experts!
Pediatric physical therapist
These PTs have a special job: they work just with kids! From babies to teenagers, they help fix problems that kids might be born with or that come up as they grow. They work with a team that includes other kinds of therapists and doctors to make sure kids are getting the best care.
Geriatric physical therapist
These therapists specialize in helping older adults. They work on easing pain, making it easier to move around, and keeping up overall health and fitness. They know a lot about the challenges that come with getting older, like arthritis or recovering from a hip replacement.
Neurological physical therapist
This type of PT is like a superhero for the brain and nerves. They help people who have had strokes, brain injuries, or diseases like Parkinson’s. Their goal is to help these individuals get back as much movement and independence as possible.
Cardiopulmonary physical therapist
These therapists focus on heart and lung health. They work with people who’ve had heart attacks or lung problems to build up their stamina and help them get back to doing everyday things on their own.
Top skills for physical therapists
To rock it as a PT, you’ll need some key skills that help you work well with people and understand how the body works. Here’s the scoop on what it takes:
Know your stuff about the body
A top-notch physical therapist needs to be a whiz when it comes to human anatomy and how our bodies heal. Knowing all about muscles, bones, and how to fix them is crucial for making plans that help people get better.
Awesome people skills
Since you’ll work closely with patients, being able to chat well and make them feel comfortable is super important. Being kind and patient makes a big difference, especially when someone is having a tough time getting back on their feet.
Be fit and agile
PTs need to be in good shape since you’ll demonstrate exercises and might even need to help support your patients as they try them out. Good coordination helps you move smoothly and safely, which keeps both you and your patients from getting hurt.
Detailed-oriented
Noticing the little things can make a big difference. Whether it’s spotting a small change in a patient’s progress or adjusting a treatment plan just right, being detail-oriented means you’re all about getting things perfect.
Ace problem solver
Every patient is different, so you’ll need to think on your feet. Coming up with smart plans that meet each person’s needs shows you’re not just following a playbook—you’re crafting custom solutions.
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Physical therapist career path
Being a PT isn’t just about working one-on-one with patients. There are tons of cool directions you can take your career if you’re looking to mix things up or climb the ladder. Check out these exciting opportunities:
Specialize and become an expert
If you love working with a certain group of people or have a passion for a specific area like sports injuries or helping older adults, specializing is the way to go. You can become the go-to expert in fields like pediatric therapy or neurological rehab and work in places that focus on these areas.
Step up to management
For those who like leading a team, there’s always the management track. After you’ve got some experience under your belt, you could manage a team of therapists, making sure everyone is giving top-notch care. This job mixes helping people with some business savvy, so it’s perfect if you’re into both.
Teach the next generation
Got a knack for teaching? PTs can also become professors or instructors, training up-and-coming therapists at universities or through continuing education courses. If you love sharing knowledge and helping others grow, this could be your calling.
Dive into research
If you’re the type who loves discovering new things, a career in research might be right up your alley. Researchers in physical therapy come up with new ways to treat patients. This path might need some extra school, like a Ph.D., but it’s super rewarding if you want to make big changes in the field.
Consult and advise
Seasoned therapists often become consultants, giving advice to healthcare facilities or sports teams. This role is great if you enjoy variety and flexibility, plus you get to help improve different programs and impact many lives.
Similar job titles
Position trends and outlook for physical therapists
Physical therapy is on the move, and it’s getting more exciting by the day! Here’s what’s shaping the future of this cool career:
- Tech is taking over: New gadgets and tech, like telemedicine and wearable devices, are making it easier for patients to get therapy without always having to visit a clinic. This tech-savvy approach not only makes treatments super convenient but also a lot more fun.
- Aging population needs more care: As more people live longer, they need more help staying active and pain-free. This means there’s a big demand for PTs who know how to work with older adults on things like walking safely and managing pain.
- Kids and teens are getting special attention: Young folks with physical challenges are also looking for therapists who really get what they need. This opens up lots of opportunities for PTs who are into working with kids and making a big difference early in their lives.
- People skills are key: Since physical therapy is all about working closely with people, being able to chat, listen, and connect with patients is more important than ever. It’s not just about physical exercises; it’s about making patients feel understood and supported.
Employment projections
Things are looking great if you’re planning to dive into physical therapy. Jobs are expected to grow by 15% through 2032—that’s way faster than a lot of other jobs. Thanks to the aging Baby Boomer crowd, there will be plenty of work helping seniors stay mobile and happy.
Physical therapist career tips
Find your niche
Physical therapy has loads of special areas you can dive into, like working with kids, athletes, or helping people recover from big injuries. Figuring out what part of physical therapy pumps you up the most can make your job even more rewarding. Once you know your path, getting extra training and certifications in that area can really boost your career.
Stay current
The world of physical therapy is always changing with new research and cool new techniques. Staying sharp means keeping up with the latest news and methods that can help your patients even more.
Network like a pro
Knowing the right people can make a huge difference in your career. Join groups to meet other therapists, learn from them, and find great opportunities.
- American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
- Private Practice Section
- World Confederation of Physical Therapy (WCPT)
Never stop learning
There’s always something new to learn in physical therapy. Check out courses, workshops, and big conferences like the Combined Sections Meeting (CSM) to keep your skills fresh and learn from the best in the biz.
Get certified
If you really want to level up, getting certified in specialties like orthopedics, pediatrics, or sports therapy can make you a go-to expert. These certifications show you’ve got serious skills and know what you’re doing.
Where the PT jobs are
Top employers
- Athletico
- Physiotherapy Associates
- Kindred Healthcare
- Select Medical
- Genesis Rehab Services
Top states
- California
- Texas
- Florida
- New York
- Pennsylvania
Top job sites
- zengig
- Indeed
- ZipRecruiter
- The American Physical Therapy Association Careers
- TherapyJobs
FAQs
What educational qualifications does a physical therapist need?
To become a PT, one generally requires a doctoral degree in physical therapy (DPT). The DPT program typically takes about three years to complete. Before you can enter a DPT program, you’ll need to earn a bachelor’s degree with a focus on courses in biology, chemistry, and physics—though a specific pre-physical therapy degree isn’t necessary. After completing the DPT program, obtaining a state license is mandatory.
What are the key skills needed for physical therapists?
In addition to solid educational qualifications, PTs must have exceptional people skills as they need to work closely with their patients and families. Manual dexterity and physical endurance are also significant as the role involves hands-on therapy and can sometimes be physically demanding. Problem-solving skills also play a key role in developing appropriate treatment plans for patients.
What does a typical day look like for a physical therapist?
PTs usually start their day by reviewing the scheduled patients. Most of their day would be spent providing therapy to patients, including exercises, massages, and even hydrotherapy. They would also need to document each patient’s progress, adjust treatment plans if needed, communicate with healthcare pros, and meet with family members to discuss patients’ care and progress. Thus, the day can be quite busy and physically demanding.
What do continuing education requirements look like for physical therapists?
Continuing education is a critical part of this profession. Most states require PTs to complete a certain number of continuing education courses to retain their licenses. These courses help keep them up to date with the latest treatments and techniques in physiotherapy. In addition to these required courses, they may acquire specialty certifications to boost their expertise in particular areas of physical therapy.
What are some challenges that a physical therapist might face?
PTs can face several challenges. Their workday can be physically exhausting due to the amount of standing, lifting, and manual work involved. They may also face emotional stress, particularly when working with patients with severe disabilities or pain. Some cases can be quite strenuous, as seeing slow or halted progress can be emotionally draining. Balancing a heavy patient load and administrative tasks is another significant challenge in this profession.
What are some ethical considerations in physical therapy?
Physical therapy highly emphasizes patient rights, dignity, and privacy. The relationship between a patient and therapist should be built on trust and respect. Disclosing the benefits, risks, and costs of treatment to the patient or their family is an important ethical obligation. It’s also crucial to ensure respectful communication, maintain professional boundaries, and handle personal information with the utmost confidentiality.
How does teamwork play a role in physical therapy?
Teamwork is significant in this profession. Often, PTs must collaborate with a team of other healthcare providers, such as doctors, nurses, occupational therapists, and social workers, to provide comprehensive care to their patients. Communication and cooperation are vital to ensure that all aspects of patient care are coordinated and executed effectively.
Is there any specific technology that physical therapists use regularly?
PTs employ various tech to aid treatment and facilitate the recovery process. For example, they might use ultrasound machines, electric muscle stimulation devices, and infrared and cold laser devices. Additionally, they often use different software and mobile applications to document patient notes, create treatment plans, and monitor patients’ progress.
What opportunities for advancement exist for physical therapists?
There are numerous opportunities for career progression in this field. PTs can choose to specialize in a specific area, such as pediatrics, sports physical therapy, geriatrics, or orthopedics. Some therapists have moved into research, teaching, or administrative roles within healthcare facilities. Some even opt to open their own private practices.