Physical Therapy Careers - Top Careers for 2013

As patients advance through their treatment, therapists monitor their progress and modify the treatment as necessary. Therapy services most commonly include exercise but can also include deep tissue massage, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and hot packs/cold compresses.

Patient education is also a large and important aspect of physical therapy.   Patients often include individuals suffering from arthritis, heart disease, fractures, cerebral palsy, or accident victims. Therapists can work in a variety of settings like hospitals, private clinics, or schools.

Physical Therapy Careers Path

A bachelor’s degree, as well as a master’s degree, from an accredited physical therapy program is required.   Therapists must also pass a state licensing exam.

Physical Therapy Careers Compatible Personality Traits

Strong desire to help others, compassionate, empathetic, patient, observant, detail oriented, exceptional problem solver, excellent interpersonal and communication skills

Physical Therapist Interview

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Physical Therapy Careers Salary Expectations

The median annual salary is approximately $72,790, with the middle 50% of therapists earning between $60,300 and $85,540.

Physical Therapy Careers Job Outlook

Job opportunities are expected to increase 30% through 2018.   The growing elderly population will play a large role in stimulating the need for therapeutic services. Advancements in medical technology will also drive the demand for physical therapy services as courses of treatment will become available for conditions that were once untreatable.