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What does a Physical Therapist do?

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Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A physical therapist is a health care professional who helps patients regain movement and function after an injury or illness. Physical therapists work with patients of all ages, from infants to the elderly. They use a variety of techniques to help their patients improve their strength, flexibility, and range of motion.

Physical Therapist job duties include:

  • Assess patients to determine the nature and extent of their impairment, disability, or handicap
  • Plan and carry out individually designed programs of physical treatment to maintain, improve, or restore physical functioning or to minimize any physical dysfunction or pain
  • Participate in research projects related to physical therapy
  • Consult with other members of the patient's health care team
  • Educate patients and families about various physical therapy treatments and exercises
  • Supervise physical therapist assistants and aides
  • Keep detailed records of patients' progress
  • Maintain equipment and work areas
  • Follow safety procedures when handling patients

Physical Therapist Job Requirements

A physical therapist (PT) is a health care professional who provides services to individuals and populations to develop, maintain and restore maximum movement and functional ability throughout the lifespan. This includes providing services in circumstances where movement and function are threatened by aging, injury, pain, diseases, disorders or environmental factors. PTs work in a variety of clinical and community settings, including hospitals, private practices, outpatient clinics, home health agencies, schools and nursing homes.

Most PTs have a bachelor’s degree in physical therapy from an accredited PT program. A small number of PTs have a master’s degree or higher. All states require PTs to be licensed or registered to practice physical therapy. Most states require PTs to pass a national examination administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy. Some states require PTs to pass a state-specific examination.

Physical Therapist Skills

  • Assessing patients
  • Planning treatment
  • Communicating with patients and their families
  • Documenting progress
  • Modifying treatment plans
  • Referring patients to other health care providers
  • Supervising physical therapy assistants and aides
  • Teaching patients exercises and activities
  • Conducting research
  • Maintaining equipment
  • Managing a physical therapy practice

Related: Top Physical Therapist Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Physical Therapist

There are many steps that one must take in order to become a physical therapist. The first step is to obtain a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Once you have obtained your degree, you must then pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). After passing the NPTE, you will be eligible to apply for a state license. Once you have obtained your state license, you will be able to practice physical therapy.

Related: Physical Therapist Resume Example

Related: Physical Therapist Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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