May 19, 2005
By Kathy A. Johnson
kathy.johnson@healthcare-programs.com
Healthcare Programs Columnist
The first physical therapists were called "reconstruction aides," and worked with injured soldiers after World War I. Most of them were women. Today, more than 120,000 physical therapists are licensed in the U.S., with women still predominant at just over 67 percent.
Physical therapists work with people of all ages, helping them recover from illness or injury, slow the progress of a disease's effects, or prevent its onset. They devise programs and treatments to ease pain, help patients relearn activities such as walking or dressing, or regain the use of a limb. They may also advise businesses how to prevent injury in the workplace, and work with athletes to prevent sports injuries.
Physical therapists work with other healthcare specialists to evaluate patients and prepare rehabilitation plans. They also teach patients and their families what they should do at home to continue the healing process. A physical therapist benefits from a compassionate nature, good communication skills and the ability to motivate.
Education and Licensing
According to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), "The minimum educational requirement is a post-baccalaureate degree from an accredited education program." Many physical therapy programs offer master's degrees, and others offer a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. In addition, APTA noted, "After graduation, candidates must pass a state-administered national exam." (Individual states also have their own requirements.)
Job Outlook
Job outlook is excellent, (physical therapists enjoy a 1.1 percent unemployment rate, according to APTA). Physical therapy jobs can be found in hospitals, schools, fitness centers, rehabilitation facilities, or nursing homes. Salaries range from $28,000 to $65,000 or more, plus benefits, depending on level of experience and education, location, and practice setting.
Few healthcare specialties can make the difference in quality of life that a career in physical therapy can. For more physical therapy career information, see contact information for APTA, below.
About the Author
Kathy A. Johnson has written articles on health, fitness, and many other topics in her career as a freelance writer and editor. She lives in Florida, and is the features editor of Forum, a bimonthly publication of the national mothers group, Mothers & More.
Sources
- American Physical Therapy Association
1111 North Fairfax Street
Alexandria, VA 22314-1488
- http://www.apta.org
- Career Opportunities in Health Care, Shelly Field
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