Considering a Career in Physical Therapy? Here’s What You Need to Know!

Physical therapy play a crucial role in reducing pain and enhancing the lives of their patients through manual rehabilitative therapy. A career in physiotherapy is fulfilling and comes with numerous benefits, though there are some challenges to consider. This article will outline the main pros and cons of being a physical therapist to help you determine if this career path is right for you.

What is Physical Therapy?
Before delving into the advantages and challenges, let’s briefly review what physiotherapy entails. Physical therapists are healthcare professionals who assist patients in recovering mobility, improving balance, and reducing chronic pain following traumatic injuries or physical disabilities. They use various hands-on techniques, including:

– Stretching
– Joint mobilization and manipulation
– Functional massage
– Acupuncture and kinesiology taping
– Guided exercises
– Aquatic therapy (hydrotherapy)
– Electrotherapy
– Heat and cold therapy
– Posture and gait training

Pros and Cons of Being a Physical Therapist

Pros
1. In-Demand Career
Physical therapy is a rapidly growing field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 21% employment growth between 2020 and 2030, significantly faster than the average for all professions. It is also rated highly in terms of job satisfaction, ranking as the 10th best job in healthcare and the 28th most rewarding job overall by US News & World Report.

2. Great Earning Potential
Physical therapists are well-compensated. In 2020, the median salary was over $91,000, with the lowest-paid 25% earning an average of $73,350. Opportunities for increased earnings exist through specializations in areas such as cardiovascular and pulmonary, orthopedics, geriatrics, pediatrics, sports, neurology, and oncology.

3. Variety of Working Environments
Physical therapists can work in diverse settings beyond hospitals and private practices, including:
– Gyms/fitness centers
– Schools
– Skilled nursing facilities
– Sports organizations
– Corporate settings
– Prisons
– Military facilities
– Nursing homes
– Patients’ homes

4. Get Paid to Travel
For those who love to travel, physical therapy offers opportunities to work as a traveling PT, allowing you to explore new places while helping people. Traveling PTs often earn 15-20% more than their stationary counterparts.

Cons
1. Emotional Stress
Working with patients overcoming significant health challenges can be emotionally taxing. Physical therapists often develop close relationships with their patients, who may be in pain during therapy sessions, adding to the emotional strain.

2. Significant Physical Demands
The job can be physically demanding. Therapists often support patients during exercises, lift them from beds, and are on their feet for long periods, which can lead to fatigue and soreness.

3. Long Hours
Physical therapists often work long hours, starting early and finishing late to accommodate their patients’ schedules and complete necessary paperwork. The job can be physically and mentally exhausting.

4. Extensive Educational Requirements
Becoming a physical therapist requires a significant educational commitment:
– Earn a Bachelor’s degree in a related field (e.g., exercise science, biology, health science, chemistry, anatomy, psychology).
– Complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program.
– Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE).
– Obtain a license to practice.
– Complete a residency program and earn a specialization (optional).
– Get board certified (optional).

An alternative is to become a physical therapy assistant (PTA), which requires a shorter and less competitive educational path and does not necessitate a bachelor’s degree. However, PTAs cannot diagnose or design treatment plans; they can only implement them.

Is Physical Therapy Right for You?
Physical therapy is a rewarding field for those passionate about helping people of all ages overcome physical challenges and gain independence. While it comes with its set of challenges, the personal and professional rewards can be immense. If you’re motivated and ready to take on these responsibilities, consider exploring the opportunities available in this dynamic and impactful profession.