More Information About Physical Therapy

• Employment in the physical therapy field is expected to grow.
• After graduating from an accredited physical therapy educational program, therapists must pass an exam before they can practice.
• Nearly 6 out of 10 physical therapists work in hospitals or in offices of physical therapy.

What does a physical therapist do?

Physical therapists help patients restore function, improve mobility, relieve pain, and prevent permanent physical damage. They work to help patients with ailments such as low-back pain, arthritis, heart disease, fractures, head injuries, and cerebral palsy. Therapists examine patients' medical histories and collaborate with other health care professionals to find the best strategy to improve a patient's ability to live a normal life. Physical therapy assistants are under direct supervision of a physical therapist, and may be involved in implementing treatment plans with patients. Physical therapist aides perform routine support tasks for therapists and assistants. Most in the physical therapy field work a 40-hour week in hospitals, clinics, or private offices.

The number of jobs for physical therapists is greater than the number of practicing physical therapists. Over the long run, the demand for physical therapists and PT assistants should continue to rise as the numbers of individuals with disabilities or limited function increase.

The average yearly salary for a physical therapist is $60,000, with a range from $42,000 to $88,000, depending on experience and location. Health and retirement benefits vary by workplace.

All states require physical therapists to graduate from an accredited physical therapy program and pass a licensure exam before they can practice. Many of the professional education programs for physical therapists require experience as a volunteer in a physical therapy department and either a bachelor's degree or two to three years of college education. Physical therapists should have strong interpersonal skills in order to be able to educate patients about their therapy treatments. A number of States have continuing education requirements that physical therapists must follow in order to keep their license.

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