Physical therapy is a healthcare profession that focuses on effective treatment and management of a variety of movement disorders. Physical therapists help patients with disabling conditions such as low-back pain, head injuries, arthritis, cerebral palsy, and heart disease, by providing treatments that restore function, improve mobility, relieve pain and prevent or limit permanent physical disabilities. Physical therapy is a client focused healthcare profession and physical therapists help patients build up the strength required to get on with their day to day activities. Physical therapy is also a powerful way to help eliminate harmful postures of the body that ultimately results in stress and discomfort, thus bringing about an overall improvement in the health of the individual.
Physical therapists can find excellent job opportunities in a variety of job environments including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, athletic facilities, nursing homes, outpatient clinics, home healthcare centers, schools, research centers and industrial clinics. Physical therapists can recommend assessment and treatment to cure problems with the muscles, circulatory system, bones and joints, and the respiratory or nervous system.
Skills Required for a Physical Therapist
o Good manual observation
o Communication skills
o Problem solving skills
o Critical thinking
o Capable of rigorous physical activity
The responsibility of the physical therapist includes educating and instructing the patients and their family members. Physical therapists will have to consult and work closely with surgeons, healthcare practitioners, and physicians in establishing treatment objectives needed for the patient’s needs.
Expected Qualifications
For a career in physical therapy, the candidates must possess a master’s degree or a doctoral degree in physical therapy (DPT) from an accredited college. They should also pass a licensure exam.
Physical therapy career opportunities are increasing day by day. Employment opportunities for physical therapists are expected to double by 2014.