Physical Therapy Career Spotlight

In the U.S. all physical therapists (DPT) are licensed health care providers. To prepare future DPTs complete a three-year post-graduate program to earn a doctorate in physical therapy. They must also pass a national exam to be licensed and practice physical therapy in their state. There are 18 programs in New York, 20 in Pennsylvania, 14 programs in Florida, 15 in Texas, and 17 programs in California.

DPTs are trained to evaluate, diagnose, and manage movement problems in people of all ages. They also work with their patients to develop a treatment plan that is specific to each patient. Meeting each patient’s goal to restore movement and function, alleviate pain, manage and facilitate recovery from an injury, prevent injury, and promote wellness and physical fitness for long term physical health.

For more information go to ExploreHealthCareers.org, American Physical Therapy Association, and the Physical Therapy Program Directory.