Physical Therapists (PTs) provide services that restore function, improve mobility, relieve pain, and prevent or limit permanent physical disabilities. Physical Therapy Assistants (PTAs) and Physical Therapy Aides work under the direction of PTs. In order to practice as a Physical Therapist one must complete an accredited physical therapy educational program and then pass a licensure exam. PTAs must complete an Associate's Degree in Physical Therapy, while Aides get most of their training on the job. Physical Therapy is also referred to as Physiotherapy.

PTs work with patients suffering from injuries or diseases. They deal with conditions such as low back pain, arthritis, heart disease, fractures, head injuries, and cerebral palsy. PTs restore, maintain, and promote overall fitness and health.

A PT first examines a patient's medical history and tests and measures his or her strength, range of motion, balance and coordination, posture, muscle performance, respiration, and motor function. The PT then evaluates the patient's ability to be independent and reintegrate into the community or workplace after injury or illness. Next he or she develops a treatment plan, describing a treatment strategy, its purpose, and anticipated outcome. Finally, the PT implements the plan, documents the patient's progress, and makes modifications as necessary. Sometimes the PT supervises a PTA in implementing the plan.

PTs may be generalists, treating a wide variety of ailments. They may also specialize in areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, orthopedics, sports medicine, or neurology.

Working Conditions

PTs work in hospitals and other health care facilities, schools, or in private practices. Physical Therapists' work is physically demanding. They often have to stoop, kneel, crouch, lift, and stand for long periods of time. PTs also move heavy equipment and lift patients or help them turn, stand, or walk.

Employment and Job Outlook

Physical therapists held about 132,000 jobs in 2000, the most recent year for which these figures are available (as of February 2002). About 1 in 4 worked part time. Some physical therapists held more than one job. For example, some may have a private practice, but also work part time in another health facility.

Employment of Physical Therapists is projected to grow faster than average for all jobs through 2010. In the near term, Federal legislation restricting the amount of reimbursement for therapy services will adversely affect the job market. However, the increase in the number of people with disabilities who need therapy services will cause demand for PTs to rise in the long run.

Educational Requirements

A PT must earn a bachelor's or master's degree from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education and then must pass a licensing exam. If a student has a bachelor's degree in another subject, he or she should apply to master's level programs. Admission to PT educational programs is very competitive so earning high grades in high school is imperative. Before granting admission some schools require a student to volunteer in a Physical Therapy department of a hospital or clinic.