What is Physical Therapy?
Physical therapy helps people with joint and soft tissue injuries such as fractures and dislocations; orthopedic conditions such as low back pain or osteoporosis; cardiopulmonary and circulatory conditions such as congestive heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; connective tissue injuries such as burns or wounds; workplace injuries including repetitive stress disorders and sports injuries and neurologic conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, or Parkinson's disease.
It is important to know that in most states, physical therapy can be provided only by qualified physical therapists or by physical therapist assistants working under the supervision of a physical therapist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do physical therapists actually do?
When a physical therapist (PT) sees a patient for the first time, they examine that individual and develop a plan of care. The goal is to promote the patient’s ability to move, reduce pain, restore function, and prevent disability. Physical therapists will also work with individuals to prevent loss of mobility by developing fitness- and wellness-oriented programs for healthier and more active lifestyles.
Therapeutic exercise and functional training are the cornerstones of physical therapist treatment. Depending on the particular needs of a patient, physical therapists may "mobilize" a joint or massage a muscle to promote proper movement and function. Physical therapists may use other techniques such as electrotherapy, ultrasound (high-frequency waves that produce heat), hot packs, and ice in addition to other treatments when appropriate.
Do you need a license to practice physical therapy?
Yes. State licensure is required in each state in which a physical therapist practices.
What do physical therapist assistants do?
Physical therapist assistants (PTAs) provide physical therapy services under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist. Care provided by a PTA may include teaching patients/clients exercise for mobility, strength and coordination, training for activities such as walking with crutches, canes, or walkers, massage, and the use of physical agents and electrotherapy such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation.
Do you need a license to be a physical therapist assistant?
In most states, yes, you need to be licensed or certified to work as a PTA.
What does the title “Physical Therapist” or “PT” after someone’s name mean?
An individual who represents themselves as having obtained the title of PT has met the following criteria:
- Graduated from an accredited physical therapist education program, which is a post-baccalaureate degree.
- Passed the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for physical therapists. This exam is based on a comprehensive practice analysis conducted to determine critical knowledge, skills and abilities of physical therapists.
- Licensed to practice in the state or jurisdiction where they work.
What does the title “Physical Therapist Assistant” or “PTA” after someone’s name mean?
- Graduated from an accredited physical therapist assistant education program, which is generally a two-year, post-high school degree.
- Passed the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for physical therapist assistants. This exam is based on a comprehensive practice analysis conducted to determine critical knowledge, skills and abilities of physical therapist assistants.
- As of January 2008, in all but four jurisdictions, licensed or certified to work in that state or jurisdiction.
What are the benchmarks of a high quality licensure examination program?
- Use of a defensible eligibility requirement ensuring that all candidates possess an appropriate level of education and experience.
- An examination based upon a comprehensive job analysis, which ensures that the examination is job-related.
- An examination which is valid and reliable. This means that the examination measures job-related attributes in a consistent manner.
- Continuing competency which is required to demonstrate that licensees have maintained their proficiency.
- Reasonable accommodations provided for candidates with disabilities.
Who do I contact for information about physical therapy state regulatory requirements?
You need to contact the licensing authority in the state where you are interested in obtaining information. Click on “Licensing Authorities” to obtain contact information for any of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.
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