Physical Therapy Career Paper

A Career in Physical Therapy

Physical therapists have impacted many lives. Physical therapy is used to help people manage pain, complete daily activities, and improve mobility skills. A physical therapist works toward a goal for each patient to guarantee he or she is meeting the patient’s needs. A career in physical therapy entails a variety of skills and years of education.

Physical therapy, also known as rehabilitation medicine, is used to assist people with physical needs through a variety of ways. In earlier stages of physical therapy, people were treated naturally with elements such as sunlight (Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation). During the 20th century, there were many people in need of physical rehabilitation due to injuries from

Some work in hospitals, but over eighty percent of others work in a different environment. In a rehabilitation hospital, intense therapy is provided to patients for about three hours per day to patients in need of assistance in daily care for himself or herself (“About Physical Therapist (PT) Careers”). Acute care is provided by a physical therapist to someone who needs physical therapy short-term and will be discharged as soon as possible. A more common setting for physical therapists is an outpatient clinic. To receive this type of care, patients typically go to a clinic or office (“About Physical Therapist (PT) Careers”). Physical therapists also may work in schools or workplaces to provide care to help improve the physical conditions for those learning or working. In addition to this, military members and civilians receive treatment from physical therapists that are employed by the local, state, and federal government (“About Physical Therapist (PT) Careers”). A physical therapist may also work in research centers to discover new findings about methods of treatments to improve his or her work. Additionally, physical therapists in a fitness setting. In this environment, the therapist may work in sports training facilities or fitness centers (“About Physical Therapist (PT) Careers”). With all of these areas for physical therapists to work, there is an increased need for individuals in this

Students also should focus on taking classes to enhance communication and computer abilities (“Physical Therapists”). When choosing a college to attend, students should choose a university with a doctorate or master's program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (“Physical Therapists”). Also when attending college, students aiming to be physical therapists should take prerequisite courses for the degree. In addition to this, it is recommended to take classes of the humanities, therapeutic procedures, human growth and development, and other classes that prepare students for the profession. Physical therapists have to take a national examination to become certified (“Physical Therapists”). Also, depending on what state he or she works in, there may be additional requirements and certifications to be a licensed physical therapist. For instance, at the Seneca County Opportunity Center Tori Harris is employed under a contract. She is required to have 24 hours of continuing education every two years (Harris). Furthermore, Harris stated that most employers of physical therapists require first aid and CPR certification. These requirements for the occupation may contribute to student