How to Become a Cardiovascular Physical Therapy Practitioner

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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A cardiovascular physical therapist works with patients in a variety of settings. They use physical therapy to treat problems like asthma, acute upper respiratory infections and trauma. Therapists may also help prepare patients for major surgery. In addition, they can treat a wide range of chronic cardiac and respiratory conditions. Patients of a cardiovascular therapists range in age from premature babies to older adults. Follow these steps to learn more.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Computer with Internet access

Meet the Educational Requirements of a Cardiovascular Therapy Practitioner

Step 1

Find and enroll in a college or university that offers a medical degree program. Work to complete a master's degree in physical therapy or a doctor's degree in physical therapy.
Step 2

Expect to take classes such as involve chemistry, biology, physiology, pharmacology and endocrinology. These classes are similar to most medical programs.
Step 3

Register for a residency program after completing the appropriate educational requirements. A residency program for cardiovascular physical therapy is usually associated with a hospital-based program.
Step 4

Plan on spending 6 to 8 years in college and residency programs to become a cardiovascular physical therapist. The amount will vary depending on the prestige and reputation of the school that offers the cardiovascular physical therapy program.
Step 5

Research this career path in more depth at the "American Physical Therapy Association" Web site (see Resources below).

Research Licensing Options

Step 1

Apply for licensing in each state where you intend to practice cardiovascular physical therapy. In most regions, a cardiovascular practitioner can enjoy autonomy with medical doctors, surgeons and physicians.
Step 2

Pursue national certification for increased career opportunities. The "American Physical Therapy Association" sets specific licensing requirements.
Step 3

Attend continuing education courses to meet the requirements set forth by your local state association. Each state may have different licensing maintenance guidelines.

Understand Career Opportunities for Cardiovascular Therapists

Step 1

Join a private practice. Many orthopedic surgeons have cardiovascular physical therapy within their offices. This close relationship with the surgeon is helpful in setting goals for treatment programs.
Step 2

Look into working in a hospital setting where physical therapy has become a popular alternative to traditional treatment programs.
Step 3

Become familiar with a variety of uses for physical therapy. Consider setting up a practice in a sports facility. Many athletic trainers and physicians recognize the importance of adding a cardiovascular physical therapy practitioner to their treatment team.