There are several positions within the field of physical therapy for those considering this career path. There are different educational requirements, job responsibilities, and compensation associated with each of these positions. This article explores the various jobs available in the area of physical therapy.

Physical therapists are licensed professionals who must obtain a masters or a doctorate degree from a college or university in the field of physical therapy. These individuals must also pass a licensing examination. The job responsibilities of a therapist are varied. Direct patient care is a large part of their job as well as the creation of treatment plans for patients. The plans typically outline treatment strategies, goals, and desired outcomes. Therapists often work closely with other health care providers and professionals such as doctors, nurses, social workers, or case managers. They also spend their time educating patients and the families of those they provide services to. The U.S. Department of Labor reports that the median annual salary in 2006 for a physical therapist was $66,200. Salary.com lists the current (2009) expected median salary for a physical therapist in the United States is $69,946.

Physical therapist assistants are supervised by licensed physical therapists. They carry out the treatment plans designed by physical therapists through direct patient care. An associate degree from a program in physical therapy assisting is required to obtain this title. Some states require a licensing examination as well. The median annual salary for this position in 2006 was $41,360 according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

Physical therapist aides work under the direction of physical therapists and physical therapist assistants. The main duties of an aide include transferring patients to and from therapy and keeping the therapy area clean and organized. A high school diploma or GED is the first step to securing this position. Many facilities offer on-the-job training for those interested in becoming physical therapy aides. The U.S. Department of Labor lists the annual median salary in 2006 for this occupation as $22,060.

Physical therapists, assistants, and aides are employed in a variety of settings. They may work in home health care, physician offices, hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, schools, or long-term-care organizations. The working conditions for this occupation can be demanding. Physical therapists and assistants often have to assist patients with standing, pivoting, and walking. They may have to move heavy equipment that is used for therapy purposes. There’s often a need to crouch, kneel, lift, or stoop to assist patients with exercises and movements. The hours of work can vary significantly. There are full-time and part-time opportunities available. There’s often a great deal of flexibility in work schedules. Some physical therapists are self-employed. They may offer services in a private practice or contract their services to health care organizations.

The job outlook for this career is very good. The U.S. Department of Labor indicates that the employment of therapists is “expected to grow much faster than average.” There are a variety of factors that will ensure the need for those specializing in physical therapy. Baby-boomers are a huge population that will need therapy services after heart attacks, strokes, and orthopedic procedures. Medical technology has enabled those affected by trauma accidents to survive more frequently. These patients will need therapy services. Advances in technology have also enabled health care providers to save more newborns with severe birth defects. Rehabilitation services are necessary for these children to realize their full physical potentials. Knee and hip replacements are becoming increasingly common. Rehabilitation services are key to recovering from these procedures. Researchers are continually working on treatments for chronic health conditions. As treatments for these conditions become discovered and more readily available, the demand for physical therapy will also increase. Wellness programs are also gaining popularity among employers and other organizations. Physical therapists are often employed to teach employees about safe working habits and to evaluate work-site safety.