Physical Therapists

Description

Physical therapists work with people who need help moving their bodies, including arms, legs and fingers. They also help relieve pain in their patients with different types of exercises. A physical therapist's patients may have injuries from accidents or they may have a disorder which limits them.

Working Conditions

Physical therapists usually work forty-hour weeks, which may include some evenings or weekends. They often work in hospitals and clinics.

Salary

Earnings range from $35,000 to over $90,000 a year. About half of the workers earn between $45,000 and $75,000.

Helpful Skills and Subjects to Study

Because competition for entrance into physical therapist programs is intense, it is important to do one's best in high school and college. Courses useful are English, anatomy, biology, chemistry, social science, mathematics and physics.

Related Jobs

Occupational therapists, speech pathologists, audiologists, orthotists, prosthetists and respiratory therapists.

Education & Training

All states require a license exam after graduating from an accredited educational program that takes about four years. Many therapists have master's degrees.

Job Outlook

There should be opportunities for qualified individuals in a few years.

Sources for Additional Information

American Physical Therapy Association
1111 North Fairfax St.
Alexandria, VA 22314-1488
www.apta.org