Career Opportunities in Physical Therapy

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the health care field is the fastest growing industry in the United States today. The demand for qualified workers in physical therapy (PT) is expected to continue to grow at a "much greater than average" rate through at least 2016. Within the field of physical therapy, there are many different types of job opportunities.

Definition of Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a type of medical therapy that uses a variety of treatment modalities to address orthopedic or neurological problems that affect mobility or a patient's ability to complete everyday tasks. Physical therapy patients come from a wide variety of ages and backgrounds with conditions ranging from congenital or developmental problems to traumatic injuries.

Physical Therapist

Physical therapists are graduates of an approved masters or doctorate level program in physical therapy. A PT's education consists of training in anatomy, physiology, pathology, treatment modalities and more, as well as a clinical practicum. The primary responsibility of a physical therapist is to evaluate patients and to create a treatment plan, which is implemented with the assistance of other PT staff, such as aides and assistants. They regularly monitor patient progress and provide ongoing support in treatment. PTs must be licensed to practice in every state.

Physical Therapy Assistant

Physical therapy assistants (PTA) provide the majority of direct patient care in physical therapy settings. They are responsible for carrying out the treatment plan as created by the PT. PTAs may assist patients with exercises and gait (walking) training, use massage or apply physical agents, such as heat or electrical stimulation, and educate patients on how to use assistive devices, such as crutches or canes. PTA training is offered primarily at vocational schools in a 2-year associate's degree program. Licensing regulations for PTAs are regulated by each individual state.

Physical Therapy Aide

Physical therapy aides assist PTs and PTAs in carrying out direct patient care, but their duties are much more limited. Training for aides is primarily conducted on the job, although there are some agencies that offer short training programs aimed at teaching basic safety and health care procedures. Aides work under the supervision of PTs and PTAs to assist and transport patients and care for and set up equipment; however, because they are not licensed, they do not perform any clinical tasks.

Physical Therapy Specialties

PTs and PTAs may work as generalists, or in a particular subspecialty. The American Physical Therapy Association offers exam-based certifications in working with different types of populations and conditions. PT specialties include orthopedics, geriatrics, pediatrics, cardiovascular rehab, wound care and neurological care, among others.

References

• American Physical Therapy Association
• Occupational Outlook Handbook (BLS)