Role Overview: The Physical Therapist provides medically prescribed therapy to alleviate pain, restore function, and prevent disability after disease, injury, or loss. They develop personalized treatment plans using exercises, manual therapy, heat, water, light, and electrical devices, and conduct diagnostic tests on muscles, nerves, and joints. They guide patients in active and passive exercises, muscle reeducation, gait training, and use specialized equipment such as ultrasound and diathermy. They also instruct patients on the use of mobility aids and perform evaluations to monitor progress, documenting outcomes for the rehabilitation team. Supervisory and training responsibilities may be involved.
Qualifications & Skills: Requires a Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT) after 2015, with licensure as a Physical Therapist. Certifications include Basic Life Support (BLS) and potentially Pelvic Health. Experience expectations include familiarity with therapeutic techniques and patient care, though specific years of experience are not mandated.
Key Duties: Conduct initial and follow-up assessments, plan and implement therapy programs, utilize various therapeutic modalities, and ensure proper use of equipment. May supervise staff and participate in educational activities for students and staff.
Qualifications: Educational background includes a high school diploma (preferred, not required), with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy (required). Certifications like BLS are mandatory, with additional certifications in pelvic health considered preferred. Licensure as a Physical Therapist is required, and certification in pelvic health is advantageous. The role necessitates obtaining specific certifications within 90 days if not already held.