What Skills Are Needed to Be a Physical Therapist?

Physical therapists work in the health care industry and provide services to help patients develop, maintain or restore movement and the ability to function throughout the body. Individuals lose the ability to move and function due to injury, age or disease. Being able to move and function is an essential requirement for maintaining good health. Physical therapists incorporate physical, psychological and emotional methods into their treatments. Because physical therapists incorporate many different methods, it is essential that they have a vast array of skills.

Treatment

Physical therapists must know how to examine patients and test them for balance, coordination, strength and range of motion. After an examination, therapists create a treatment plan, which will include exercises that promote flexibility, endurance and strength. Therapists also must know how to use hot packs, ice, electrical stimulation and ultrasounds to thwart pain and swelling. After helping patients perform exercises, therapists need masseuse skills to perform a deep-tissue massage, which helps improve circulation and motion in the body.

Communication

It is essential that physical therapists have strong interpersonal skills to help them educate patients about treatments, disorders and prevention. Patients may respond better to treatment if they fully understand why therapists are recommending specific exercises and why their bodies are giving them problems.

Education

Students must achieve the necessary educational requirements to become a physical therapist. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, while in school students learn the skills to become a physical therapist by taking classes in biomechanics, chemistry, biology, physics, human growth, examination techniques and therapeutic procedures.

License

The College of Health Professionals says that all potential physical therapists must acquire the necessary skills to pass a rigorous licensing exam. All states regulate their own practices of physical therapy, and eligibility requirements are different from state to state. Passing this exam and becoming licensed shows the state, patients and potential employers that a physical therapist has the skills to embark on a career in the field.

Physical

Physical therapists must be in good physical condition because they need to have the ability to move and lift patients. Therapists help patients stretch and move in order to increase mobility and improve flexibility. Physical therapists aid patients with exercises, because age or injury often restricts their movements and weakens their muscles.