The field of Physical Therapy is projected to grow 14% (much faster than average) between 2021 and 2031, with a median annual salary of $95,620 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
As a Physical Therapist, you may:
- Review patients’ medical history and any referrals or notes from doctors, surgeons, or other healthcare workers.
- Diagnose patients’ functions and movements by observing them stand or walk and by listening to their concerns, among other methods.
- Develop individualized plans of care for patients, outlining the patients’ goals and the expected outcomes of the plans.
- Use exercises, stretching maneuvers, hands-on therapy, and equipment to ease patients’ pain, help them increase their mobility, prevent further pain or injury, and facilitate health and wellness.
- Evaluate and record a patient’s progress, modifying a plan of care and trying new treatments as needed.
- Educate patients and their families about what to expect from the recovery process and how best to cope with challenges throughout the process.