Physical therapists plan and execute rehabilitation programs to help patients return to a higher level of physical function after an accident or surgery. They will often also help to manage or lessen the pain experienced by someone stricken with a degenerative condition or terminal disease. Physical therapists help patients through a combination of physical activity, reflexology, massage and muscular and skeletal manipulation.
With an aging population the job outlook for physical therapists looks strong. So how do you become a physical therapist? Most have pursued a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree and all have obtained a state issued license to practice. Like many other professional licenses, a license to practice physical therapy usually requires continued education in the field to maintain certification.
Duties & Responsibilities.
- Perform initial and ongoing physical therapy evaluations according to APTA standards of practice as well as state standards.
- Develop Plan of Treatment for each patient based on initial and ongoing evaluations including short and long term goals, collaboration demands of other staff members, and required patient and caregiver involvement.
- Implement Plan of Treatment on a consistent schedule and adjust this schedule and plan according to patient progress.
- Document patient progress according to approved medical documentation and facility documentation procedures.
- Evaluate mobility, strength and current level of patient function, while setting goals to improve in these areas that are scaled to patient abilities and realistically attainable.
- Report patient progress to patient, patient caregivers and loved ones, facility staff and healthcare professionals involved in ongoing treatment/care of patients.
- Develop a plan for patients following completion of their Plan of Treatment with appropriate in-home care services.
- Maintain professional and technical knowledge through attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications, etc.
- Assist other facility staff members as needed to provide care and create a clean, orderly and effective environment for rehabilitation and physical therapy.