Intro
Discover top physical therapy job openings and explore exciting career opportunities. From sports physical therapy to pediatric therapy, find the best PT jobs that match your skills and interests. Learn about the latest job trends, required qualifications, and top employers in the physical therapy industry.
The field of physical therapy has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by an aging population, an increased focus on healthcare, and a greater emphasis on preventive care. As a result, physical therapy job openings have become more abundant, offering a wide range of opportunities for professionals in this field. Whether you're a seasoned physical therapist or just starting your career, there are numerous job openings to explore.
One of the primary drivers of growth in the physical therapy job market is the aging population. As people live longer, they require more medical care, including physical therapy, to manage chronic conditions and maintain mobility. Additionally, the healthcare industry's shift towards value-based care has led to an increased focus on preventive care, which includes physical therapy. This shift has created a high demand for physical therapists who can provide high-quality, patient-centered care.
Top Physical Therapy Job Openings
Several physical therapy job openings are available, catering to different skills, interests, and career goals. Here are some of the top opportunities to explore:
1. Pediatric Physical Therapist
Pediatric physical therapists work with children, from infancy to adolescence, to help them develop gross motor skills, improve mobility, and manage conditions such as cerebral palsy. This role requires a deep understanding of child development, patience, and creativity.
- Average salary: $85,000 - $110,000 per year
- Job outlook: 22% growth (faster than average)
- Required education: Doctoral degree in physical therapy (DPT)
2. Sports Physical Therapist
Sports physical therapists work with athletes to prevent, diagnose, and treat injuries. They develop personalized training programs to enhance athletic performance, improve flexibility, and reduce the risk of injury.
- Average salary: $80,000 - $100,000 per year
- Job outlook: 20% growth (faster than average)
- Required education: Doctoral degree in physical therapy (DPT)
3. Geriatric Physical Therapist
Geriatric physical therapists work with older adults to help them maintain mobility, manage chronic conditions, and prevent falls. This role requires a deep understanding of age-related changes, patience, and empathy.
- Average salary: $75,000 - $90,000 per year
- Job outlook: 25% growth (much faster than average)
- Required education: Doctoral degree in physical therapy (DPT)
4. Orthopedic Physical Therapist
Orthopedic physical therapists work with patients who have musculoskeletal injuries or conditions, such as back pain, joint replacements, or fractures. They develop personalized treatment plans to promote healing, improve mobility, and reduce pain.
- Average salary: $80,000 - $100,000 per year
- Job outlook: 20% growth (faster than average)
- Required education: Doctoral degree in physical therapy (DPT)
5. Neurological Physical Therapist
Neurological physical therapists work with patients who have neurological conditions, such as stroke, Parkinson's disease, or multiple sclerosis. They develop personalized treatment plans to improve mobility, balance, and cognitive function.
- Average salary: $75,000 - $90,000 per year
- Job outlook: 22% growth (faster than average)
- Required education: Doctoral degree in physical therapy (DPT)
Steps to Pursue a Career in Physical Therapy
If you're interested in pursuing a career in physical therapy, here are the steps to follow:
1. Earn a Bachelor's Degree
The first step to becoming a physical therapist is to earn a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. While a specific undergraduate major is not required, courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics are highly recommended.
2. Take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
Most physical therapy programs require applicants to take the GRE, which measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills.
3. Earn a Doctoral Degree in Physical Therapy (DPT)
A DPT degree is required to become a licensed physical therapist. Physical therapy programs typically take three years to complete and include classroom instruction, laboratory training, and clinical experience.
4. Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE)
The NPTE is a licensure exam that assesses a candidate's knowledge, skills, and abilities in physical therapy. Passing the NPTE is required to become a licensed physical therapist.
5. Obtain a State License
All states require physical therapists to be licensed. Requirements for licensure vary by state, so it's essential to check with your state's licensing authority for specific requirements.
6. Pursue Residency or Fellowship Training
Residency or fellowship training can provide advanced training in a specific area of physical therapy, such as sports physical therapy or pediatric physical therapy.
7. Maintain Certification
Certification is not mandatory, but it can demonstrate expertise and commitment to the profession. The American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS) offers certification in several areas of physical therapy.
Skills Required for a Career in Physical Therapy
Physical therapists require a unique blend of skills, including:
1. Communication Skills
Effective communication is critical in physical therapy, as therapists must communicate with patients, families, and healthcare teams.
2. Empathy and Compassion
Physical therapists must be empathetic and compassionate, as they work with patients who may be experiencing pain, anxiety, or fear.
3. Problem-Solving Skills
Physical therapists must be able to analyze complex problems and develop creative solutions.
4. Manual Dexterity
Physical therapists require manual dexterity to perform manual therapy techniques, such as massage and joint mobilization.
5. Critical Thinking Skills
Physical therapists must be able to think critically, as they evaluate patients, develop treatment plans, and adjust interventions based on patient response.
6. Adaptability
Physical therapists must be adaptable, as they work with patients with diverse backgrounds, ages, and abilities.
7. Physical Stamina
Physical therapists require physical stamina, as they may spend long hours on their feet, lifting patients, or performing manual therapy techniques.
Work Environment and Schedule
Physical therapists work in a variety of settings, including:
1. Hospitals
Physical therapists work in hospitals, providing care to patients with acute injuries or illnesses.
2. Clinics
Physical therapists work in clinics, providing outpatient care to patients with chronic conditions or injuries.
3. Rehabilitation Centers
Physical therapists work in rehabilitation centers, providing care to patients with complex medical conditions, such as spinal cord injuries or traumatic brain injuries.
4. Schools
Physical therapists work in schools, providing care to children with disabilities or injuries.
5. Sports Teams
Physical therapists work with sports teams, providing care to athletes with injuries or illnesses.
Physical therapists typically work a standard 40-hour week, although some may work evenings, weekends, or holidays. They may also be required to be on call, responding to emergencies or providing care to patients outside of regular hours.
Salary and Benefits
Physical therapists are well-compensated, with median salaries ranging from $75,000 to $110,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and setting. Benefits may include:
1. Health Insurance
Physical therapists typically receive health insurance, which may include medical, dental, and vision coverage.
2. Retirement Plans
Physical therapists may receive retirement plans, such as 401(k) or pension plans.
3. Paid Time Off
Physical therapists typically receive paid time off, which may include vacation days, sick leave, and holidays.
4. Continuing Education
Physical therapists may receive continuing education opportunities, which may include workshops, conferences, and online courses.
5. Professional Membership
Physical therapists may receive professional membership, which may include membership in the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) or state-specific organizations.
Conclusion
Physical therapy job openings offer a wide range of opportunities for professionals who are passionate about helping others and promoting health and wellness. Whether you're interested in working with children, athletes, or older adults, there's a physical therapy job opening that's right for you. By pursuing a career in physical therapy, you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others while enjoying a rewarding and challenging profession.
What is the average salary for a physical therapist?
+The average salary for a physical therapist is around $85,000 per year, although salaries can range from $75,000 to $110,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and setting.
What are the top physical therapy job openings?
+The top physical therapy job openings include pediatric physical therapist, sports physical therapist, geriatric physical therapist, orthopedic physical therapist, and neurological physical therapist.
What skills are required for a career in physical therapy?
+Physical therapists require a unique blend of skills, including communication skills, empathy and compassion, problem-solving skills, manual dexterity, critical thinking skills, adaptability, and physical stamina.
What is the work environment and schedule like for physical therapists?
+Physical therapists work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, schools, and sports teams. They typically work a standard 40-hour week, although some may work evenings, weekends, or holidays.
What benefits do physical therapists receive?
+Physical therapists typically receive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, continuing education opportunities, and professional membership.