Physical Therapists
Physical therapists help people recover from injuries, manage pain, and improve their movement through hands-on treatment and specialized exercises. They work closely with patients to create personalized recovery plans, using modern equipment and techniques to help people get back to their daily activities. These healthcare professionals collaborate with doctors and other medical staff, often working in clinics, hospitals, or sports facilities. To become a physical therapist, you'll need to earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, which typically takes about 7 years of education after high school.
Did you know?
Physical therapists must complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, typically requiring 6-7 years of post-secondary education and significant student loan debt.
At a glance
Typical average pay
$99,900 Avg/yr
Growth
Fast growing
Top skill
Service Orientation
Things to consider
State Licensing Requirements
Each state has unique licensing requirements and continuing education mandates, which can complicate interstate practice and require ongoing professional development investments.
Strong Job Market Growth
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects much faster than average job growth due to an aging baby boomer population increasing demand for rehabilitation services.
Key responsibilities
Plan, prepare, or carry out individually designed programs of physical treatment to maintain, improve, or restore physical functioning, alleviate pain, or prevent physical dysfunction in patients.
Instruct patient and family in treatment procedures to be continued at home.
Direct, supervise, assess, and communicate with supportive personnel.
Provide information to the patient about the proposed intervention, its material risks and expected benefits, and any reasonable alternatives.
Administer manual exercises, massage, or traction to help relieve pain, increase patient strength, or decrease or prevent deformity or crippling.