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Physical Therapy Careers

What is Physical Therapy? 

Physical Therapy is an allied health care profession that is used to improve a patient’s physical functions through physical examination, diagnosis, prognosis, physical intervention, rehabilitation, and patient education.  

What is Physical Therapist? 

Physical Therapist are licensed professionals who diagnose and treat individuals of all ages who have medical problems or other health-related conditions that limit their abilities to move and perform functional activities in their daily lives using treatment techniques to promote the ability to move, reduce pain, restore function, and prevent disability.  

Becoming an PT? 

All physical therapist must receive a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from an accredited physical therapist educational program. In addition, they must pass a national licensure exam in order to practice.

Physical Therapy Education 

Physical Therapy professional education refers to the didactic and clinical education that prepares graduates for entry into practice of physical therapy.In the United States it is only offered as a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree (All new professionals must have DPT to practice in the US). The length of professional DPT programs is typically 3 years. Although offered at the doctorate level, most PT programs do not require a master’s degree for admission. 

 A complete directory of PT programs can be found at the Commission of Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education. Below is a list of accredited PT education programs in the extended Bay Area: 

 Careers 

Although many Physical Therapist practice in hospitals, more than 80% practice in:  

  • Outpatient Clinics or offices 

  • Inpatient rehabilitation facilities 

  • Skilled Nursing, Extended Care, Subacute, or Hospice facilities 

  • Homes, Schools, and Education/Research centers 

  • Industrial, Workplace, or other Occupational Environments 

  • Fitness centers and sports training facilities 

Visit the American Physical Therapist Association website for more information  

Additional Resources can be found at this link