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Physical Therapy
as a Profession |
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compiled by: Marla Baccari |
The field of Physical Therapy offers an exciting career in healthcare
rehabilitation. However, the opportunities and specializations in this
field are so numerous, it's sometimes hard to get a handle on the
different types of therapy and what it takes to become a physical
therapist. Here at the Sports Physical Therapy Institute,
we are a private
physical therapy practice focusing on outpatient sports and orthopedic
injuries. We treat injuries and conditions of the body including
shoulder, hip, knee, ankle, neck and back problems. On any given day we
may see an Olympic athlete who's just had surgery, the business
professional with low back pain, or the Senior with arthritis. Our type
of therapy is only one area in the broad spectrum of physical therapy
disciplines. Below are
some frequently asked questions regarding physical therapy as a
profession to help better understand what therapists do and schooling
required to become one.
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| What
exactly is Physical Therapy? |
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By definition, the practice of physical therapy is the examination,
treatment, or instruction to detect, assess, prevent, correct, alleviate
and limit physical disability, bodily dysfunction and pain from injury,
disease or other physical condition.
Physical Therapists are the experts in the examination and treatment of
musculoskeletal and neuromuscular problems that affect peoples’
abilities to move the way they want and function as well as they want in
their daily lives.
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| How does
a Physical Therapist actually administer treatment? |
They evaluate, assess, and treat injuries and/or conditions through
several techniques to reduce pain, increase strength and/or range of
motion, and limit or reduce physical disability.
Therapeutic exercise and functional training are the basis for physical
therapy. They provide "hands-on" care including mobilization or
manipulation of joints, massage, stretching, and strengthening
techniques. Non hands-on methods of treatment include ice, heat,
ultrasound, and electric stimulation for muscles. Patient education and
home exercise instruction can also be part of a successful treatment
program. Based on each patient's need, the therapist will determine the
most effective combination of treatment methods.
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| Are there
different types of Physical Therapy? |
Although the profession is relatively new, it has grown over the
years and therapists can now specialize in pediatrics, sports medicine,
neurology, home health, geriatrics, orthopedics, aquatic therapy, wound
care, electrotherapy, occupational health, women's health, acute care,
education, administration, research and cardiopulmonary rehabilitation.
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Where do
Physical
Therapists practice
their
profession? |
Physical therapists today will often work in a variety of settings
including hospitals, nursing homes, schools, outpatient clinics,
fitness facilities, the home environment and at many industrial
companies.
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| What and
how much schooling is required to become a Physical Therapist? |
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Presently, most physical therapy require a four year undergraduate
degree followed by 2-3 years of post graduate study in physical
therapy. Two year programs result in a Masters Degree and three year
programs award a Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT). Most programs now
offer a DPT or will be in the near future, which places increased
emphasis on clinical training. In addition to successfully completing a
Physical Therapy program, to become licensed to practice physical
therapy, candidates must pass the Physical Therapy State Board
Examination. Course work includes anatomy, biomechanics, neuroanatomy,
neurophysiology, neurodevelopment, exercise physiology, pharmacology,
and therapeutic exercise as a core curriculum. A strong science
background is required for entering this field of study. Undergraduate
students interested in pursuing physical therapy should have a major
such as biology, kinesiology, health and exercise science, or other
science related majors.
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| What can
I do to increase my chances of being accepted into a PT Program or how
can I learn more about the profession to see if it's what I really want
to do? |
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Most physical therapy programs require having experience in the field of
physical therapy as a volunteer, physical therapy aide, or internship
prior to applying to their school. This is the best way to learn about
the profession, the daily operations of a physical therapy practice, and
whether the profession and atmosphere match your personality and career
aspirations.
Find a physical therapy practice or hospital in your area that has a
good reputation and treats the type of patients that you are interested
in. Talk to a therapist or administrator and let them know that you are
interested in observing, volunteering, or working as a PT Aide. The
majority of the physical therapy aides in our clinic are in college and
applying for post graduate degrees in physical therapy or the medical
sciences. When they leave our facilities to start their formal
education, they take vast experience in patient interaction, exercise
instruction, modality set-up, maintenance, and clerical skills involved
in a physical therapy practice. Several have even returned to our
facility to work as therapists after achieving their physical therapy
degrees and licensure.
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| What is a
PTA (Physical Therapy Assistant)? |
A physical therapist assistant (PTA) must work under the direction and
supervision of the physical therapist and cannot initially evaluate or
develop a treatment plan. However, a PTA can perform all
physical therapy modalities and techniques selected by the supervising
physical therapist. PTA's can work in all physical therapy settings and
employment opportunities for them continue to grow.
Physical therapist assistants must complete a two-year education program
and will receive an associate's degree upon graduation. Most programs
are offered through a community or junior college. Coursework usually
includes one year of general education and one year of technical courses
on physical therapy procedures and clinical experience.
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| Where can
I get more info? |
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For further information regarding physical therapy and all of its
various specialties, disciplines, and educational programs visit
www.apta.org.
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Back to Articles |
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Info courtesy of: Marc Nowak, MPT;
www.apta.org.,
www.physicaltherapy.about.com |
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