Physical Therapy
Job Description
Physical therapists provide services that help restore function, improve mobility, relieve pain, and prevent or limit permanent physical disabilities of patients suffering from injuries or disease. They restore, maintain, and promote overall fitness and health. They also examine patients' medical histories, then test and measure their strength, range of motion, balance and coordination, posture, muscle performance, respiration, and motor function. Then they determine patients' ability to be independent and reintegrate into the community or workplace after injury or illness.
Employment
ÃÂHospitals
ÃÂOffices
ÃÂClinics
ÃÂHome health agencies
ÃÂOut patient rehabilitation centers
ÃÂNursing homes
ÃÂArmed Forces
ÃÂSelf-employed
ÃÂSchools
Benefits
They help people overcome or adjust to physical disabilities caused by injury, illness, or birth defects.
Salary
The average starting salary in Georgia is about 41,249 dollars.
Advancement Opportunities
Physical Therapists can advance in jobs and work in teaching positions, research positions, or administrative positions.
Requirements
All States require physical therapists to pass a licensure exam before they can practice, after graduating from an accredited physical therapist educational program.
Physical therapists should have strong interpersonal skills to successfully educate patients about their physical therapy treatments. They should also be compassionate and possess a desire to help patients. Similar traits also are needed to interact with the patient's family.