Physical
Therapist
Physical
therapy is the health profession that focuses
on the evaluation, management, and prevention
of disorders of human motion.
Physical
therapists, or PTs, are important members of the
rehabilitation team. They evaluate and provide
treatment for persons with health problems and
disabilities resulting from injury, disease, overuse
of muscles or tendons, pain, or loss of a body
part.
Physical
therapy treatments and services focus on restoring
the individual's mobility (movement) and function,
and preventing of further disability.
Physical
therapists may provide treatment and education
regarding any of the following:
- mobility (movement)
- balance and gait retraining
- heat and cold therapy
and massage
- activities of daily
living (ADLs)
- burn care
- casting and splinting
- wheelchair, walkers,
canes, and crutches
- muscle retraining
- pain management
- cardiovascular strengthening
- use of orthotics (braces,
splints) and prosthetics (artificial limbs)
- exercise programs
Physical
therapists may practice in a variety of settings,
including the following:
- hospitals
- nursing homes
- inpatient rehabilitation
centers
- outpatient rehabilitation
centers
- community and home
health settings
- schools
- industrial health centers
- sports facilities
- private practice
Physical
therapists have an undergraduate degree in physical
therapy, and many have a Master's degree. In order
to practice, all graduates must be licensed by
their state by passing a national certification
examination. They are accredited by the American
Physical Therapy Association.
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