Role Overview: The Physical Therapist provides medically prescribed therapy to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent disability following disease, injury, or loss. They develop personalized treatment plans using exercises, manual therapy, heat, water, light, and electrical modalities, and perform diagnostic tests on muscles, nerves, and joints. The role involves guiding patients through active and passive exercises, muscle reeducation, gait, and functional training, utilizing specialized equipment such as ultrasound and diathermy machines. They evaluate patient progress, document outcomes, and may supervise assistants, aides, or volunteers. Additionally, the therapist may participate in training medical and nursing students and educate clients on postural control and therapeutic exercises.
Qualifications & Skills: A Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT) is required after 2015. Candidates should possess licensure as a Physical Therapist, certification in Basic Life Support (BLS), and preferred certification in Pelvic Health. Relevant experience includes a minimum of one year working with muscles, nerves, and joints, with requirements for required certifications and licensure. Knowledge of therapeutic techniques, diagnostic testing, and patient education is essential.