Physical Therapist
A physical therapist (PT) is a healthcare professional who helps individuals improve movement and manage pain resulting from injuries, illnesses, or medical conditions. They work with patients of all ages, from newborns to the elderly, and may treat a wide range of conditions affecting the musculoskeletal, neurological, cardiopulmonary, and integumentary systems. Physical therapists typically work in various settings such as private offices, clinics, hospitals, patients homes, and nursing homes.
Education and Training
To practice as a physical therapist in the U.S., one must earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education and pass a state licensure exam. Most DPT programs take around three years to complete and cover subjects such as biology, anatomy, physiology, and cellular histology.
Job Duties
Physical therapists diagnose patients to determine their level of function, create personalized treatment plans to improve movement, reduce pain, restore function, and prevent disability. They use a combination of exercises, stretches, hands-on techniques, and equipment to achieve these goals. Additionally, they may work with other healthcare professionals and may also focus on treatments that reduce the need for surgery and prescription drugs.
Career Outlook
Employment of physical therapists is projected to grow 15% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. The median annual wage for physical therapists was $97,720 in May 2022.
In summary, physical therapists play a crucial role in helping individuals recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and improve their overall quality of life through personalized treatment plans and rehabilitation exercises.
