Requirements to Become...
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What are the Requirements to Become a Physical Therapist?

As a physical therapist, you help improve mobility, relieve pain, restore function, or limit permanent disabilities in patients who suffer from any number of diseases or injuries. Working closely with healthcare providers, patients, and their families, you develop exercise and stretching regimens designed to help patients get back on their feet and resume as many of their daily activities as possible. Typical charges include accident victims and those suffering from:
  • Fractures
  • Back pain
  • Arthritis
  • Head injuries
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Parkinson's disease
It is a job that requires tremendous patience, attention to detail, and a thorough understanding of the human anatomy. Not only do you need technical knowledge, but you should also develop strong interpersonal skills as well. Physical therapy can be an arduous and frustrating experience for patients, so compassion and understand are crucial to the process.

Educational Requirements to Become a Physical Therapist

Although the exact requirements to become a physical therapist vary from state to state, in most cases, you need a master's degree in physical therapy, sports medicine, or a related field. In some very rare cases, a bachelor's degree might suffice, but for long-term employment prospects, having a master's degree or higher is preferred.

Throughout your training, you explore areas such as chemistry, biology, physics, biomechanics, human growth and development, examination techniques, neuroanatomy, therapeutic procedures, and manifestations of disease. Most of this academic coursework is then coupled with supervised clinical experience as well.

Regulatory Requirements to Become a Physical Therapist

After completing your academic and practical training, you must then pass your state's licensing exam. Such certification is mandatory before you can begin practicing physical therapy professionally. And because each state follows its own guidelines regarding this occupational field, you may have to retake the exam every time that you change locations.

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