Physical Therapist

Physical therapists help patients who are facing challenges in mobility or pain management for any variety of reasons, including aging, injury, or illness. They work to alleviate pain, restore movement and function, improve mobility, and promote overall health and wellness in patients. Patients who have suffered from injury, as well as those with debilitating conditions, such as chronic back pain or cerebral palsy, often need the aid of a physical therapist to help them condition their muscles to perform basic everyday activities, like walking. After examining a patient, a physical therapist implements a treatment plan to increase the patient’s endurance, strength, balance, and coordination. Sometimes, an assistive device like a crutch is used to help the patient along the way. Physical therapists are also responsible for monitoring the progress of the patient and adapting the treatment plan if other issues arise. They often work in conjunction with physicians. There are many different specializations of physical therapy, including cardiopulmonary, geriatric, neurological, orthopedic, pediatric, and integumentary therapies.

Employment positions for physical therapists are expected to see a 27 percent growth in opportunities by 2016, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Federal legislation which imposes limits on compensation for therapy services may cause a downturn in therapy services at first, but the effect is projected to be temporary as new treatments and techniques expands the scope of therapy practices. The aging world population will also increase the demand for physical therapists.

Prospective physical therapists must earn a minimum of a Master of Healthcare degree from an accredited program of study. Those looking to advance their careers in the healthcare sector should consider enrolling in a MHA program, which will open up more opportunities in highly rewarding and specialized management fields. Only master’s and doctoral programs are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education, so those looking to join the physical therapy field should be prepared to spend more than four years in school. Requirements for licensure to practice physical therapy vary between states, so those looking to earn an education in one location and begin practicing in another should be aware of the differing criteria for therapists. However, all states generally require that the applicant have the education needed, sufficient experience, and evidence that he or she successfully completed and passed the national certification exam.