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What does a physical therapist do?
Physical therapy is one of the career paths I'm interested in. But I want to learn more about what they do. What are their daily tasks, what types of patients do they see, and how is the workload? Do you find yourself happy with your job?
I also want to learn how to become a physical therapist. What majors and classes did they take? How was school and etc?
#physical-therapist #physical-therapy #therapy #physical #major #medical #kinesiology
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Donna’s Answer
To become a PT, you will need to complete an undergrad degree, usually taking 4 years. Then you can apply to PT schools that will then be an additional 2.5-3 years finishing with a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. A DPT is the "entry-level" degree needed to practice physical therapy.
As a physical therapist for 35+ years in several different settings, I found each setting had its own rewards and challenges. PT's can work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, skilled nursing facilities,home health, school systems, etc. In each setting, it was extremely rewarding to work with patients to achieve their highest level of independence, improve their function or decrease their pain. A typical day had regularly scheduled patients for the PT to see, either for an initial evaluation or ongoing treatment. As patients improve, you change their treatment goals and set up a new program for them to work on, so the work is ever-changing and can be very challenging when a patient isn't improving or cooperating. Most patient interactions are very enjoyable.
Please go to the American Physical Therapy Association website to learn more about PT.
As a physical therapist for 35+ years in several different settings, I found each setting had its own rewards and challenges. PT's can work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, skilled nursing facilities,home health, school systems, etc. In each setting, it was extremely rewarding to work with patients to achieve their highest level of independence, improve their function or decrease their pain. A typical day had regularly scheduled patients for the PT to see, either for an initial evaluation or ongoing treatment. As patients improve, you change their treatment goals and set up a new program for them to work on, so the work is ever-changing and can be very challenging when a patient isn't improving or cooperating. Most patient interactions are very enjoyable.
Please go to the American Physical Therapy Association website to learn more about PT.
Updated
Kelly’s Answer
I am not a physical therapist but I have used one. Physical therapists have changed my life. After an injury or illness, physical therapists work with patients in a physical therapy gym-type of setting. They examine the injury or illness and recommend exercises to rebuild strength and capabilities. They continue to work with patients as they recover and hopefully return to their pre-injury condition. My physical therapists were very wise about muscles and bones and the exercises I could do to recover. They also encouraged me greatly and helped me stay on track. It is a very noble profession!
Thank you, this was very helpful.
Darren
Thanks for the reply and best of luck to you!
Kelly Hoople