4 answers
Cannon
Student
Lake Stevens, Washington
1
Question
Asked
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What are some of the biggest challenges and rewards of being a physical therapist ?
I am a HS senior interested in this field. I have been accepted to Pacific University which has a strong PT program. I play football and enjoy exercise sciences.
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4 answers
Anna Williams
Physical Therapist
3
Answers
Hillsboro, Oregon
Updated
Anna’s Answer
If you are someone who actually likes making a difference in the lives of people, this profession is for you! Yes, medications and surgeries are crucial, but it is of no use if the patient cannot bounce back to how they were prior to their condition and physical therapists bridge this gap of patient care. It feels extremely rewarding and fulfilling when you see someone in acute care not able to move on their own, and your intervention is helping them go back to their normal life!
Challenges - It is a physical job and can make you feel burnt out sometimes. But you can always look for jobs that help you get enough breaks.
Salary wise you will gradually get better. Don't expect a lot straight out of school, but would be decent enough!
Challenges - It is a physical job and can make you feel burnt out sometimes. But you can always look for jobs that help you get enough breaks.
Salary wise you will gradually get better. Don't expect a lot straight out of school, but would be decent enough!
Rebecca Kollmorgen
physical therapy
11
Answers
North Hampton, New Hampshire
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
The main reward is that it is a profession that puts you into direct contract with people, building meaningful relationships rather than being at a desk job with only a computer as your interface. If you are a people person and strive to really help others in a tangible way, it is a great career choice. Plus, you will put to work your interest in exercise science on a daily basis.
The challenges can be paperwork (mainly in dealing with an ineffective insurance system), possibly long shifts and a long time on your feet.
I actually enjoy the continuing education requirements, which makes you a lifelong learner.
Another challenge can be the long schooling - the PT degree requirements have really increased since I went to school. It is a big investment of time and money up front.
The challenges can be paperwork (mainly in dealing with an ineffective insurance system), possibly long shifts and a long time on your feet.
I actually enjoy the continuing education requirements, which makes you a lifelong learner.
Another challenge can be the long schooling - the PT degree requirements have really increased since I went to school. It is a big investment of time and money up front.
Tatiana White
Medical Records Specialist
10
Answers
Memphis, Tennessee
Updated
Tatiana’s Answer
Being a physical therapist offers both significant rewards and challenges. The profession can be incredibly fulfilling due to the direct impact on patients' lives, but it also presents challenges like high stress levels, long hours, and the constant need for continuing education.
Rewards:
Helping others:
Physical therapists directly impact patients' quality of life by helping them regain mobility, reduce pain, and improve overall well-being.
Patient relationships:
The long-term nature of therapy allows therapists to build strong relationships with patients, fostering trust and a sense of partnership in recovery.
Professional fulfillment:
Many therapists find deep satisfaction in witnessing patients' progress and achieving
Rewards:
Helping others:
Physical therapists directly impact patients' quality of life by helping them regain mobility, reduce pain, and improve overall well-being.
Patient relationships:
The long-term nature of therapy allows therapists to build strong relationships with patients, fostering trust and a sense of partnership in recovery.
Professional fulfillment:
Many therapists find deep satisfaction in witnessing patients' progress and achieving
Jane Akinyemi
Lecturer
6
Answers
Salem, Massachusetts
Updated
Jane’s Answer
Hi Cannon,
Every endeavor has its challenges. Being a physical therapist comes with its unique set of challenges and rewards. Here’s a highlight of both:
1. There are physical demands that involve working long hours, often standing, bending and lifting can be draining on the therapist body.
2. It can be emotionally challenging when supporting patients during setbacks or slow recovery.
3. There are some complex cases whereby treating patients with multiple conditions or complicated injuries requires deep expertise and adaptability.
4. In a bid to manage time, balancing administrative tasks, like paperwork combined with patient care can be overwhelming.
5. It’s important to encourage your clients to stay committed to their treatment plans despite frustration or discomfort, this process can really be tough.
Rewards
1. It is immensely fulfilling when you are making a positive impact by helping your clients to regain mobility and improve their quality of life.
2. The place of personal connection with your clients cannot be overemphasized, because building relationships with patients and witnessing their progress fosters a strong sense of purpose.
3. On new techniques and approaches, being a physical therapist exposes you to continuous learning by staying updated thereby keeping the job exciting and dynamic.
4. There is versatility in being a physical therapist. You can specialize in various areas from sports therapy to pediatric care, adding variety to your career.
5. Knowing you play an important role in someone’s recovery journey is a deeply rewarding experience that gives you job satisfaction.
The balance between these challenges and rewards is what makes physical therapy a career for those who are passionate about health, fitness and wellness.
I hope this help
All the best
Every endeavor has its challenges. Being a physical therapist comes with its unique set of challenges and rewards. Here’s a highlight of both:
1. There are physical demands that involve working long hours, often standing, bending and lifting can be draining on the therapist body.
2. It can be emotionally challenging when supporting patients during setbacks or slow recovery.
3. There are some complex cases whereby treating patients with multiple conditions or complicated injuries requires deep expertise and adaptability.
4. In a bid to manage time, balancing administrative tasks, like paperwork combined with patient care can be overwhelming.
5. It’s important to encourage your clients to stay committed to their treatment plans despite frustration or discomfort, this process can really be tough.
Rewards
1. It is immensely fulfilling when you are making a positive impact by helping your clients to regain mobility and improve their quality of life.
2. The place of personal connection with your clients cannot be overemphasized, because building relationships with patients and witnessing their progress fosters a strong sense of purpose.
3. On new techniques and approaches, being a physical therapist exposes you to continuous learning by staying updated thereby keeping the job exciting and dynamic.
4. There is versatility in being a physical therapist. You can specialize in various areas from sports therapy to pediatric care, adding variety to your career.
5. Knowing you play an important role in someone’s recovery journey is a deeply rewarding experience that gives you job satisfaction.
The balance between these challenges and rewards is what makes physical therapy a career for those who are passionate about health, fitness and wellness.
I hope this help
All the best