Most of us have had a car accident, sports mishap or some incidence that makes our bodies rebel against us. Enter physical therapists, who diagnose and develop treatment plans for individuals whose physical mobility is not at the optimum level, whether it's an athlete recovering from a busted hamstring or a war veteran re-learning basic functions after an Active Duty accident. Physical therapists are licensed health care professionals ... whose work is increasingly in demand as insurance companies begin to realize the worth of covering patients for these important, life-improving services
Accidents happen everywhere, so it only makes sense that physical therapists work everywhere, too. Many work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and in private practices or clients' homes. They use a variety of technical equipment and the work can be physically laborious as they help their patients to move, stretch, and build muscle. Many physical therapists specialize in a particular client pool, such as the elderly, or those recovering from multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, or rheumatoid arthritis.
Want to become a practicing physical therapist in the United States? The first step is to earn a post-baccalaureate degree that is accredited by the American Physical Therapy Association. Master's and doctoral degrees in Physical Therapy involve courses in: foundational sciences, such as anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and pathology; behavioral sciences; clinical sciences; and physical therapist practice and management. These programs also include a clinical practice component in which students receive hands-on training from licensed physical therapists.
This fieldwork can take up a large part of a student's schedule. That's why many aspiring physical therapists are studying online while working during the day. Admissions counselors in online programs will help aspiring physical therapists figure out a course of study that will be compliant with their state requirements and guide them toward licensure in this exciting and expanding field.
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