Physical Therapist

Industry:
Healthcare
Last Updated:
April 27, 2023

Job Description Overview

A Physical Therapist job description involves treating patients who have suffered injuries or disabilities affecting their ability to move or function. The primary goal of a physical therapist is to help patients regain their mobility, improve mobility and relieve pain. Physical therapists are responsible for developing treatment plans that address the patient's individual needs and goals. They use a combination of exercise, manual therapy, and other techniques to manage the patient's pain and help them regain their range of motion. They also educate patients on how to prevent future injuries and improve their overall mobility. Physical therapists typically work in hospitals, clinics, or private practices. They work closely with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to deliver optimal care to their patients. Physical therapist job description requires a degree in physical therapy and a license to practice in their state.

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Job Duties and Responsibilities

  • Evaluate patients with physical impairments, disabilities or injuries to determine treatment plans
  • Develop individualized treatment plans using exercises, manual therapy, and other techniques to improve patients' mobility, manage pain, and prevent disability
  • Monitor patients' progress and adapt treatment plans as necessary
  • Teach patients how to perform exercises and activities that aid in their recovery and prevent further injury
  • Use equipment such as braces, crutches, and prosthetics to assist patients in regaining mobility
  • Help patients manage their pain and improve their quality of life
  • Document patients' progress and communicate with other healthcare professionals involved in their care
  • Provide education and resources to help patients prevent injury and maintain their physical health
  • Collaborate with other healthcare professionals to create comprehensive treatment plans for patients.

Experience and Education Requirements

To become a Physical Therapist in the healthcare industry, you need to have some specific Education and Experience. First, you need to have a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, which typically takes three years to complete. In school, you will learn about anatomy, physiology, and different treatments for various conditions. Second, you must complete supervised clinical experience, which is typically around 30 weeks. During this time, you will work with patients and put what you learned in school into practice. Finally, you need to pass a licensing exam to legally work as a Physical Therapist. Once you have all of these things, you can begin your career helping people to recover from injuries and improve their quality of life.

Salary Range

Physical Therapists in the healthcare industry can earn a salary range of $60,000 to $110,000 annually, depending on their experience, location, and setting of work. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for Physical Therapists in the United States was $90,170 in May 2020. This career field is projected to grow 18% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average of all occupations. Physical Therapists in Canada can earn an average of CAD 38.46 per hour, while those in the UK can earn £24,907 to £46,560 per year. Physical Therapist salary range is subject to change depending on the supply and demand of Physical Therapists in the market.

Sources:

https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physical-therapists.htm 

https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=PhysicalTherapist(PT)/Salary 

https://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Job=Physical_Therapist/Salary

https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/physiotherapist#salary.

Career Outlook

The career outlook for physical therapists in the healthcare industry is looking bright over the next five years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of physical therapists is projected to grow 18 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is mainly due to an aging baby boomer population, who may require more physical therapy services as they age. In addition, advances in medical technology and insurance coverage for physical therapy are also contributing factors to the growth of the field. Overall, physical therapy is a stable and in-demand career path for those interested in healthcare.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What does a physical therapist do?

A: Physical therapists help people recover from injuries or illnesses that affect their ability to move properly. They'll evaluate a patient's condition and put together a treatment plan to help them get better.

Q: What kind of education/training is required to become a physical therapist?

A: At minimum, a physical therapist needs a doctoral degree in physical therapy. This typically takes around three years. Additionally, all states require a license to practice as a physical therapist.

Q: What kind of patients do physical therapists work with?

A: Physical therapists work with a wide variety of patients, from elderly people trying to maintain mobility to athletes recovering from injuries.

Q: Is physical therapy a good career choice financially?

A: Physical therapists are generally well-compensated. While salaries can vary depending on location and experience, the median income for a physical therapist was nearly $90,000 in 2018.

Q: Do physical therapists work with other medical professionals?

A: Yes, physical therapists often work as part of a broader healthcare team. They may coordinate with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to provide the best possible care for a patient.


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