Job Profile of a Physical Therapist
Physical therapists are medical professionals who help individuals in the recovery of orthopedic and other mobility problems. They have a variety of methods of treatments to eliminate problems that are usually the result of injuries or health conditions that affects the skeletal, muscular and neurological systems. Other than the initiation of treatments, physical therapists do a detailed assessment regarding the muscle bone, litheness, mobility, potency stamina and the way a patient walks. He or she is the person who develops certain goals for treating patients. This individual chooses specific exercises and treatments for the patient to reach a set goal.
Requirements to be a Physical Therapist
Academic: To have a physical therapist career, a candidate must have a license to practice. The practitioner should possess a Bachelor's degree from a recognized university. He or she may also have a Master's degree along with a doctoral physical program which lasts for almost three or five years. A higher level of education is required for more advanced physical therapist positions. The job aspirant should have passed an evaluation by the particular state. The courses completed should include anatomy, physiology, pathology and also the development and treatment methods.
Skill sets: In order to be a physical therapist, a person must feel an obligation and commitment to the profession. The individual should be patient and have the ability to survive the physical and mental challenges of the job. The job aspirant should be patient as the results might not come quickly.
Training: Physical therapists require specific training in this field. There are several physical therapist programs that offer detailed training and certification in the areas where extra expertise is required.
Prior experience: In order to be a physical therapist, real time experience is essential. Other than the educational qualifications, educational programs and industry experience of three or four years is important as the employers cannot expect amateurs to fulfill therapy requirements.
Employment Outlook
Career prospects: Physical therapists are in high demand in several areas of expertise. They are employed in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes and private practice centers. As per reports, there will be an increase of approximately twenty seven percent in the employment of physical therapists between the years 2006 and 2016.
Salary: A physical therapist has an average salary of $55,000 to $78,000. The salary will depend upon the area of expertise, state of employment and the state where he or she resides. Experience is another factor that will determine the salary paid. As compared to other professions in the health care industry, therapists earn a good salary.
Choosing a physical therapist career provides a person with the right outlook and personality. This is most suitable for those persons who have compassion to deal with patients who are frustrated with the physical challenges they face in their lives and experience intense physical pain.
