Sports Physical Therapy Institute

The field of Physical Therapy offers an exciting career in healthcare rehabilitation. However, the opportunities and specializations in this field are so numerous, it's sometimes hard to get a handle on the different types of therapy and what it takes to become a physical therapist. Here at the Sports Physical Therapy Institute, we are a private physical therapy practice focusing on outpatient sports and orthopedic injuries. We treat injuries and conditions of the body including shoulder, hip, knee, ankle, neck and back problems. On any given day we may see an Olympic athlete who's just had surgery, the business professional with low back pain, or the Senior with arthritis. Our type of therapy is only one area in the broad spectrum of physical therapy disciplines.  Below are some frequently asked questions regarding physical therapy as a profession to help better understand what therapists do and schooling required to become one.

What exactly is Physical Therapy?

By definition, the practice of physical therapy is the examination, treatment, or instruction to detect, assess, prevent, correct, alleviate and limit physical disability, bodily dysfunction and pain from injury, disease or other physical condition.
Physical Therapists are the experts in the examination and treatment of musculoskeletal and neuromuscular problems that affect peoples' abilities to move the way they want and function as well as they want in their daily lives.

How does a Physical Therapist actually administer treatment?

They evaluate, assess, and treat injuries and/or conditions through several techniques to reduce pain, increase strength and/or range of motion, and limit or reduce physical disability.
Therapeutic exercise and functional training are the basis for physical therapy. They provide "hands-on" care including mobilization or manipulation of joints, massage, stretching, and strengthening techniques. Non hands-on methods of treatment include ice, heat, ultrasound, and electric stimulation for muscles. Patient education and home exercise instruction can also be part of a successful treatment program. Based on each patient's need, the therapist will determine the most effective combination of treatment methods. 

Are there different types of Physical Therapy?

Although the profession is relatively new, it  has grown over the years and therapists can now specialize in pediatrics, sports medicine, neurology, home health, geriatrics, orthopedics, aquatic therapy, wound care, electrotherapy, occupational health, women's health, acute care, education, administration, research and cardiopulmonary rehabilitation.

Where do Physical Therapists practice their profession?

Physical therapists today will often work in a variety of settings including hospitals, nursing homes, schools, outpatient clinics, fitness facilities, the home environment and at many industrial companies.

What and how much schooling is required to become a Physical Therapist?

Presently, most physical therapy require a four year undergraduate degree followed by 2-3 years of post graduate study in physical therapy.  Two year programs result in a Masters Degree and three year programs award a Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT). Most programs now offer a DPT or will be in the near future, which places increased emphasis on clinical training. In addition to successfully completing a Physical Therapy program, to become licensed to practice physical therapy, candidates must pass the Physical Therapy State Board Examination. Course work includes anatomy, biomechanics, neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, neurodevelopment, exercise physiology, pharmacology, and therapeutic exercise as a core curriculum.  A strong science background is required for entering this field of study. Undergraduate students interested in pursuing physical therapy should have a major such as biology, kinesiology, health and exercise science, or other science related majors.

What can I do to increase my chances of being accepted into a PT Program or how can I learn more about the profession to see if it's what I really want to do?

Most physical therapy programs require having experience in the field of physical therapy as a volunteer, physical therapy aide, or internship prior to applying to their school.  This is the best way to learn about the profession, the daily operations of a physical therapy practice, and whether the profession and atmosphere match your personality and career aspirations.

Find a physical therapy practice or hospital in your area that has a good reputation and treats the type of patients that you are interested in. Talk to a therapist or administrator and let them know that you are interested in observing, volunteering, or working as a PT Aide. The majority of the physical therapy aides in our clinic are in college and applying for post graduate degrees in physical therapy or the medical sciences. When they leave our facilities to start their formal education, they take vast experience in patient interaction, exercise instruction, modality set-up, maintenance, and clerical skills involved in a physical therapy practice.  Several have even returned to our facility to work as therapists after achieving their physical therapy degrees and licensure.
 

What is a PTA (Physical Therapy Assistant)?

A physical therapist assistant (PTA) must work under the direction and supervision of the physical therapist and cannot initially evaluate or develop a treatment plan.  However, a PTA can  perform all physical therapy modalities and techniques selected by the supervising physical therapist. PTA's can work in all physical therapy settings and employment opportunities for them continue to grow.
Physical therapist assistants must complete a two-year education program and will receive an associate's degree upon graduation. Most programs are offered through a community or junior college. Coursework usually includes one year of general education and one year of technical courses on physical therapy procedures and clinical experience.

Where can I get more info?

For further information regarding physical therapy and all of its various specialties, disciplines, and educational programs visit www.apta.org.