Careers in Physical Therapy
Physical therapists help those with physical challenges become stronger, enabling them to improve both their bodies and their lives. They offer assistance to patients experiencing issues with strength, range of motion, endurance, and gross motor functioning hindering their ability to complete daily activities.
Physical therapists commonly prescribe exercises to their patients, matching the exercises to the ailments and condition of their patients. They may also use electronic stimulation, hot and cold compresses, ultrasound and deep tissue massage when working with clients as well.
It's important for a physical therapist to not only have technical skills but strong goal-setting and motivational skills, in order to assist patients in creating a plan and then making progress on each step of their path to wellness.
What do physical therapists do in schools?
School-based physical therapists work with other professionals to assist children with disabilities to access their education. This includes activities of a school day, like: moving throughout school grounds, sitting, standing in line or at the board, moving in class or through the building.
All screens, evaluations, consultations, and interventions are performed by physical therapists.
To help students who have physical challenges requiring therapy, physical therapists work as part of the team that develops programs for students facing physical challenges. Those challenges can include:
- Rehabilitation for musculoskeletal deficits occurring with physical disabilities
- Therapy to promote development of gross motor skills and balance coordination
- Strength and endurance training
What is the career outlook for school-based physical therapists?
The outlook for school-based physical therapists is quite strong. Because of the movement to provide access to education for all children, regardless of physical handicaps, more school districts than ever find themselves in need of physical therapists who can provide both rehab and therapy to students, as well as the emotional support needed to overcome their circumstances and achieve excellence in and out of the classroom.
