Improving Performance, Easing Pain, and a Speedy Recovery.
Physical therapists can make a tremendous difference in a person's life. Is the Doctor of Physical Therapy the right career choice for you? Read the Q&A below, and find out more:
What Do Physical Therapists Do?
First and foremost, physical therapists are hands-on healthcare professionals. As a physical therapist, you will use your education, along with your knowledge of anatomy and the sciences, to help patients and clients recover from injuries and achieve improved function and movement. You will assess a patient’s biomechanical functioning and provide appropriate therapies; you'll develop specialized stretches and exercises to help your patients overcome pain and increase their range of motion.
Moreover, physical therapists are teachers; you will teach your clients how to take charge of their health to achieve a better quality of life. PTs are counselors, too, providing clients with the perspective and motivation they need to keep working toward improved health.
Watch the following video to get a sampling of the wide variety of ways that physical therapists help their patients restore and improve motion to achieve long-term quality of life:
Is the DPT Right for You?
The Doctor of Physical Therapy degree program attracts students who enjoy science — especially the study of movement — and working with people from all walks of life. Physical Therapists (also known as PTs) might work with infants, only days old, or older adults; they might spend their time working with professional athletes, or patients who have sustained permanent disabilities. One thing remains constant, no matter who you're working with, PTs help people live better lives, whether it’s in reaching peak athletic performance or returning to a normal range of movement and ability.
Hear what physical therapists and new professionals say about their choice of a physical therapist career at the link below:
In Their Own Words — Why Our PTs Chose a Career in Physical Therapy
Professional Collaboration
In today's healthcare, collaboration is essential for better patient outcomes, as siloed practices are no longer viable.
As a physical therapist, you will work closely with other healthcare professionals to improve your client’s health and functioning. You'll integrate your expertise and collaborate with occupational therapists, speech and language pathologists, nurses, physicians, prosthetists, orthotists, and others. You'll also provide guidance and therapy in collaboration with school teachers, social workers, and family members.
Learn More About the Profession