Therapy Specialties: What is Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy is a rewarding and fulfilling career choice that can make a significant impact on the lives of patients. As a physical therapist, you have the opportunity to help people recover from injuries and illnesses, manage chronic conditions, and improve their overall quality of life. In this blog post, we will explore what physical therapy is, the education required, and the symptoms and problems that it can help resolve.

What is Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy, also known as physiotherapy, is a healthcare profession that uses evidence-based practices to help patients recover from injuries, manage pain, and improve physical function. Physical therapists work with patients of all ages, from newborns to the elderly, and treat a wide range of conditions, including musculoskeletal injuries, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular and respiratory problems.

Physical therapy involves the use of manual therapy, exercise, and other modalities to help patients achieve their goals. Physical therapists also educate patients on how to manage their conditions and prevent future injuries.

Education Required for Physical Therapy

To become a physical therapist, you must first earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from an accredited program. DPT programs typically take three years to complete and include coursework in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, biomechanics, and therapeutic exercise, as well as clinical rotations to gain hands-on experience.

After completing a DPT program, you must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) to become licensed to practice in your state. Some states also require additional exams or continuing education to maintain licensure.

Symptoms and Problems that Physical Therapy Can Help Resolve

Physical therapy can help resolve a wide range of symptoms and problems, including:

1. Pain: Physical therapists can use manual therapy, modalities like heat or ice, and exercise to help manage pain from a variety of conditions, including musculoskeletal injuries, arthritis, and fibromyalgia.
2. Mobility: Physical therapy can help patients regain mobility and strength after surgery or injury. This can include exercises to improve range of motion, gait training, and balance exercises.
3. Neurological conditions: Physical therapy can help patients with neurological conditions like stroke, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson’s disease improve their movement and function.
4. Respiratory problems: Physical therapy can help patients with respiratory problems like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) improve their breathing and endurance.
5. Sports injuries: Physical therapists can help athletes recover from injuries and develop a plan to prevent future injuries. This can include rehabilitation exercises and education on proper technique and injury prevention.

Physical therapy is a dynamic and rewarding career choice that can make a significant impact on the lives of patients. It requires a DPT degree and licensure, but the education and hands-on experience gained in the process can prepare you for a fulfilling career in healthcare. As a physical therapist, you have the opportunity to help patients manage pain, regain mobility, and improve their overall quality of life. If you are interested in a career in healthcare that involves working closely with patients and making a positive impact on their lives, physical therapy may be the perfect choice for you.