The medical field is expanding with many innovations that improve health and longevity. With these new advances, the need for trained medical professionals is increasing exponentially. Physical therapy is becoming more important because of the extended periods of recovery and rehabilitation after these new life-giving surgeries. As a career, the field of physical therapy offers individuals a number of clear benefits.
Helping Others
Physical therapists are actively involved in the healing arts, without the lifestyle inconvenience of 24/7 availability. Physical therapists must analyze patients’ medical problems, test abilities, and design appropriate treatment programs to restore optimum function. Physical therapists enjoy a high degree of job satisfaction because their work has such tangible results for patient health.
Status in the Medical Community
Physical therapists are vital members of the healthcare team that patients depend on to achieve full recovery. Physical therapists must often consult with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to determine the right type of treatment for patients’ needs. They are a respected part of the medical community that is valued for their knowledge and skills.
Job Security
An experienced physical therapist can expect continuous employment throughout their working life. The skills and knowledge of the physical therapist make him or her a valuable asset in a variety of medical settings. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects employment for physical therapists to increase 39 percent from 2010 to 2020. The 2010 average median salary for physical therapists is $76,000.
Technical Expertise
Physical therapy offers challenging intellectual growth, with detailed information on how the body works and how new technologies are used to extend life and increase function. Therapists must work with a variety of equipment, including weights, resistance bands, exercise balls, ramps, treadmills, elliptical machines, and other types of gym equipment. In addition, they must administer hydrotherapy treatments and electrotherapy stimulation.
Many colleges offer programs to achieve doctorate status that provide training in the latest technical advancements in the field.
Continuing Challenges
As new technologies in the medical field are introduced, new methods of therapy must be designed to aid in the recovery of patients. Physical therapy often requires continuing education throughout one’s career to maintain proper licensing. These classes help PT professionals stay abreast of new developments and healthcare strategies. You can find more information from educational institutions online at www.rmuohp.com.
Career Potential
The U.S. Bureau of Labor foresees that employment for physical therapists will grow 30 percent between 2008 and 2018. Physical therapists will have significant job security and the ability to advance to management positions to supervise PT staffing. Most physical therapy students acquire a doctorate degree in the field. DPT program requirements include courses in anatomy, physiology, general physics, general chemistry, pharmacology, statistics, ethics, and intensive classes in physical therapy methods. The doctorate program can also qualify students to teach. Many physical therapists become entrepreneurs, owning their own PT clinics that contract with doctors and hospitals.
For those who look for challenge, growth, and satisfaction in their careers, physical therapy offers many advantages. Physical therapy’s expanding opportunities offer students a bright outlook for the future.
