Physical Therapist Career Guide

What Does a Physical Therapist Do?

Physical therapists help injured or ill people improve movement and manage pain. They review patients' medical history, diagnose movement dysfunction by observing patients stand or walk, develop individualized treatment plans, use exercises and hands-on therapy to ease pain and improve mobility, evaluate and record patient progress, and educate patients and families about recovery expectations. PTs are an important part of preventive care, rehabilitation, and treatment for patients with chronic conditions, injuries, or illnesses.

Education & Requirements

• Typical Education: Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from an accredited program (3 years post-bachelor's)
• Certifications: State licensure required (pass national exam); optional board certification in specialties like orthopedics or sports
• Key Skills: Communication, compassion, detail-oriented, physical stamina, dexterity, problem-solving, time management
• Experience: Clinical work during DPT program; some pursue 1-year residencies for specialty training

Salary Information

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024 data):

• Median Annual Salary: $101,020
• Entry-Level (10th percentile): $74,420
• Experienced (90th percentile): $132,500
• Top-Paying Settings: Home healthcare services ($108,110), Nursing care facilities ($105,330), Hospitals ($105,140)
• Lower-Paying Settings: Offices of physical therapists ($94,860)

Job Outlook & Growth

Employment of physical therapists is projected to grow 11 percent from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 13,200 openings are projected each year. Demand comes primarily from the aging population, who are more likely to experience mobility-related disabilities and injuries requiring physical therapy. The growing prevalence of chronic conditions like diabetes, obesity, and musculoskeletal disorders increases need for PTs. Additionally, there's greater emphasis on non-opioid pain management approaches, supporting employment growth for physical therapists.

How to Break Into This Field

1. Education: Earn a bachelor's degree (often in recreation, fitness, or healthcare-related fields) with prerequisite courses in anatomy, chemistry, and physics. Complete a 3-year DPT program accredited by CAPTE.
2. Entry-Level Roles: After graduation and licensure, seek positions in hospitals, outpatient clinics, or home healthcare. New graduates often work in general practice before specializing.
3. Build Skills: Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE), obtain state licensure, and consider specialty certifications. Gain experience with various patient populations during clinical rotations.
4. Network: Join the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), attend professional conferences, connect with mentors during clinical rotations, and engage in specialty interest groups.
5. Apply Strategically: Target hospitals, sports medicine clinics, rehabilitation centers, skilled nursing facilities, or private practices. Check job boards like APTA's Career Center, Indeed, and hospital career pages.

Career Path & Advancement

Physical therapists can advance by becoming board-certified clinical specialists in areas like orthopedics, sports, geriatrics, or neurology. Some pursue clinic director or department manager positions, overseeing other PTs and operations. Entrepreneurial therapists may open their own private practices. Others move into teaching at DPT programs, conducting research, or consulting. Advanced roles include becoming a DPT program director, clinical residency coordinator, or healthcare administrator. Some PTs also transition into related fields like ergonomics consulting or medical device sales.

Pros & Cons

Related Careers

If you're interested in Physical Therapist, you might also consider:

• Occupational Therapist (similar rehabilitation focus, different scope)
• Athletic Trainer (sports injury prevention and treatment)
• Chiropractor (alternative approach to musculoskeletal care)
• Physician Assistant (broader medical practice, similar education length)