The primary function of a physical therapist is to promote rejuvenation of injuries and illness.  They work to restore function, improve mobility, and relieve pain, while working to prevent or limit permanent damage of physical disabilities.  The majority of physical therapists work with accident victims and those with disabling conditions.  Some of the ailments of their patients could include lower back pain, arthritis, heart disease, fractures, head injuries and cerebral palsy.

Physical therapists have an overwhelming knowledge of techniques that are used to test and measure a patient’s strength, range of motion, balance and coordination, posture, muscle performance, respiration and motor skills.  Their goal is to make the patients independent again in the hopes of integrating them back into their communities or workplace.  Once the goal has been described, it is necessary for the physical therapist to implement a plan that describes the treatments, the purpose of it and the hope of the outcome.

Most often, the physical therapist will establish a series of exercises that are designed specifically to treat the individual patient and their needs.  Patients who have been immobilized and lack flexibility strength or endurance are typical examples of patients who are in need of physical therapy.  The physical therapist will work slowly to encourage the patient to use their own muscles in the hopes of creating a full range of motion.

Physical therapists often use equipment and instruments to help in the promotion of flexibility, endurance and strength.  The use of electrical stimulation, hot packs or cold compresses and ultrasound devices work to relieve pain and reduce swelling.  Traction and deep tissue massage may also be used to help in the reduction of pain.  It is the job of the physical therapist to instruct in the use of crutches, prostheses and wheelchairs.  They also implement exercise programs that patients can do at home to speed up the recovery.

It is important for a physical therapist to also take accurate notes and keep efficient medical records in order to document the patient’s recovery and make necessary changes in a patient’s treatment.

While physical therapists generally develop strategies and exercises for the patient, they are in constant contact with other health care providers, to ensure proper care is provided.  There may be times when a patients requires assistance from others, so in this case it becomes important to document all progress and areas to work on.

Most physical therapists work with a variety of patients.  There is only a small percentage that specializes in areas such as geriatrics, orthopedics or sports medicine.

It is absolutely necessary for a person seeking a career as a physical therapist to complete the education requirements and then pass an examination to become licensed.  Programs for physical therapists are offered at junior or community colleges, vocational schools, colleges and universities and the Armed Forces.  In order to be in compliance with regulations, it is necessary for a candidate to complete a program that is accredited by the American Physical Therapy Association.  In order to meet the requirements for accreditation, it is mandatory that the school offers degrees at the master’s level and higher.

Students who are accepted into the physical therapy program are instructed in a number of fields.  Lessons include courses in biomechanics, neuroanatomy, human growth and development, the process of disease, examination techniques, and therapeutic procedures. They are also educated in the basics of science, including anatomy, biology, chemistry, social science, mathematics and physics. In addition to the instruction of courses in the classroom, students are also supervised in a clinical setting.

Therapists are encouraged to maintain an understanding of different diseases and treatments in order to communicate effectively with patients.  At times the nature of the ailment may be a sensitive matter and therefore will need to be approached as such.  It may be necessary to communicate specific information to the patient and the family as well.

It is critical for physical therapists to continue education in different techniques and treatments.  With advancements in technology and treatment, it is necessary for therapists to keep current on all options that are available. In some cases, new techniques are developed to treat specific ailments and at this point it is absolutely necessary for therapists to be current on all new information. Most states require continuing education units in order to maintain license or certification.  This normally requires the therapist to complete a specific amount of units or courses over a certain amount of time.  Renewal of license is typically based on the ability to pass and examination plus completion of required education.

Many therapists elect to run their own private practice so in this case it may be necessary to enroll in courses emphasizing business strategies.  In private practice, it is necessary for the therapist to record medical records, handle bookkeeping and invoicing while also keeping schedules and appointments. This may require the hiring of an assistant.

The salary of a physical therapist will depend primarily on the location of position, the actual company or organization employed for and the level of experience and education.  Those opting to establish a private practice will be able to determine their income based on the amount of work.  There is also the potential to become flexible with appointments and schedules, which becomes a fringe benefit of the job.

The median national average of physical therapists in the United States as of 2005 is reported at $60,067 per year.  This figure reflects therapists living in higher paying states and those who were hired based on higher education and increased levels of experience.  Those who sought even higher levels of education and those who specialize in specific areas with high levels of experience, have the potential to earn $64,839 per year.  The lowest paid therapists who are generally those in entry-level positions, those who have lower levels of experience generally earn approximately $56,015 per year.

Another thing to consider when discussing salaries are the benefits and bonuses that are included in the job package.  With the option of benefits, it can potentially add an estimated $20,000 per year in savings of medical, health care and retirement costs.  Average yearly incomes may also be affected depending on such things as the size of the company, the credential of the applicant and the years of experience and on the job training.

Overall, those seeking a career as a physical therapist need to understand the demands associated with this profession.  Many therapists are required to have patience when it comes to establishing routines and programs for those in need.  There may be times when efforts made to not seem to be paying off and it may be frustrating and overwhelming.  It is important to stay positive for the sake of the patient.

Growth in this industry is expected to grow over the next years.  With advances in technologies, injuries and illnesses that were once considered terminal are now being treated and even cured which means that the need for physical therapy or rehabilitation is crucial.  It may also be necessary to employ more physical therapists based on the number of the aging population.  As people get older, there are increases in physical disabilities and ailments that require medical attention and potentially physical therapy.

One final growing trend in recent history is corporations and companies hiring physical therapists to help prevent injuries and promote wellness in the workplace.  Therapists are working at adapting strategies for employees who suffer from illness or injury that could potentially take them off work for a while.  Establishing a plan to prevent accidents works to the benefit of both employer and employee.