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Physical Therapist

Following an injury or illness, physical therapists, or PTs, are responsible for relieving pain, preventing or limiting permanent physical disabilities, and restoring mobility to patients’ limbs.  In order to achieve optimal treatment, PT’s collect and review medical history and measure and test a patients’ strength, coordination, posture, motor functions, range of motion, and many other areas.  Based on this knowledge, they determine the ability for the patient to gain independence, or be reintegrated into regular activities, and then develop treatment plans for their patients.  Exercise is the primary tool therapists use in order to strengthen their patients.  Other helpful devices include hot packs, cold compresses, deep tissue massage, and electronic stimulation.  They keep detailed documents covering a patient’s treatment and reaction and may change treatment schedules based on a patient’s performance. 

Physical therapists are commonly employed through hospitals, private offices, or clinics, but may treat patients in their homes or at schools.  Professionals must be able to move or position disabled patients, and guide heavy equipment so stooping, standing, kneeling, and heavy lifting may be necessary periodically.  Approximately 25% of physical therapists work part time, but the majority of professionals work standard 40 hour weeks.  Depending on the place of employment, weekend or evening hours may be necessary. 

Kindness, selflessness and the desire to help others are not the only requirements for this career.  Physical therapists must be licensed before they may begin practicing.  To obtain licensure, candidates must graduate from an accredited school, with a minimum of a Master’s degree, and pass the necessary exam.  Continuing education is necessary to maintain licensing. 

Currently, PT careers are slightly declined, but in coming years, growth much faster than average industries is projected.  As the number of patients with disabilities and limited functionality increase, so will the need for physical therapists.  Surprisingly, technology will continue to increase the need for these professionals.  As physicians are able to save more lives with advanced technology, therapy is needed to help them fully recover and grow.  Outlook for these careers is positive.  For more information on a career as a Physical Therapist, please visit the following sites:

• Journal of the Physical Therapy Association
• University of Florida - Department of Physical Therapy
• Physical Therapy and the Alexander Technique
• Sports Physical Therapy Section
• Slack Incorporated

To search for available physical therapy positions, or find a qualified PT, please visit iHireTherapy.