At some point in their treatment, accident and stroke victims, handicapped children, and disabled older persons are usually referred by their doctor to a physical therapist. The therapist will design and carry out a program of testing, exercise, massage, or other therapeutic treatment that will increase strength, restore the range of motion, relieve pain, and improve the condition of muscles and skin.
Physical therapists provide direct patient care and usually do their own evaluation of the patient's needs. The physical therapist works, however, in close cooperation with the physician and any other specialists involved in the care of the patient such as vocational therapists, psychologists, and social workers. In large hospitals and nursing homes, physical therapists may carry out a program designed by the director or assistant director of the physical therapy department rather than develop the program themselves. Some physical therapists specialize in one variety of patient such as children or the elderly or one type of condition such as arthritis, amputations, or paralysis.
Most physical therapists work in hospitals. Nursing homes employ a growing number and also use the services of self-employed therapists. Rehabilitation centers, schools for handicapped children, public health agencies, physicians' offices, and the armed forces all employ physical therapists. Some therapists also work with patients in their own homes or provide instructions to the patient and the patient's family on how to continue therapy at home.
Because this field has so many opportunities for part-time practitioners, it appeals to people with family responsibilities.
Places of Employment and Working Conditions
Physical therapists are employed throughout the country, with the largest number working in cities with large hospitals or medical centers.
Since physical therapy, unlike many other medical procedures, does not have to be provided on a 24-hour basis, most therapists work a 40-hour week. In the case of self-employed and part-time therapists, some evening and weekend work may be required.
Qualifications, Education, and Training
Patience, tact, emotional stability, and the ability to work with people are important for anyone interested in this field. Manual dexterity and physical stamina are also important.
High school students considering this field should take courses in health, biology, social science, mathematics, and physical education. Part-time or volunteer work in the physical therapy department of a hospital can provide a close look at the work for anyone trying to decide on a career in physical therapy.
There are two types of programs for physical therapy training: a four-year bachelor's degree in physical therapy or an entry-level master's degree program.
Physical therapists must be licensed. A degree or certificate from an accredited program and a passing grade on a state board examination completes the requirements for obtaining a license.
Potential and Advancement
Employment in the field is expected to expand rapidly as the demand grows for more rehabilitative facilities for accident victims, the elderly, and handicapped children. Opportunities for part-time work will also continue to grow.
As the number of new graduates in the field catches up with the number of job openings, job competition will probably develop in large population centers. Job opportunities will continue to be good in suburban and rural areas, however.
Advancement in this field depends on experience and advanced education especially for teaching, research, and administration positions.
Income
Salaries for physical therapists depend on the level of experience, level of education, and the employer, among other factors. A full time researcher with a master’s degree will likely make considerably more than a part time therapist with a bachelor’s.
Additional Sources of Information
American Physical Therapy Association
