Physical Therapist
Physical therapists focus on restoring a person's movement (mobility) and function, and preventing further disability.
What is a physical therapist?
Physical therapy focuses on the evaluation, management, and prevention of disorders of human motion.
Physical therapists (PTs) are important members of the rehab (rehabilitation) team. They evaluate and provide treatment for people with health problems and disabilities caused by injury, disease, overuse, pain, or loss of a body part.
PTs focus on restoring a person's movement (mobility) and function. They also help prevent further disability, reduce risk for injury, and reduce activity limitations.
PTs may provide treatment and education for:
Mobility
Balance and gait retraining
Heat and cold therapy and massage
Activities of daily living
Burn care
Casting and splinting
Wheelchair, walkers, canes, and crutches
Muscle retraining
Pain management
Cardiovascular strengthening
Use of braces and splints (orthotics) and prosthetics artificial limbs (prosthetics)
Exercise programs
PTs work in many settings, including:
Hospitals
Nursing homes
Inpatient rehab centers
Outpatient rehab centers
Community and home health settings
Schools
Industrial health centers
Sports facilities
Private practice
Today, PTs who enter the profession must earn a doctorate from a school accredited by the American Physical Therapy Association. To practice, all graduates must be licensed in their state by passing a national certification exam.