My grandfather was a double amputee from WWII. I saw him go through physical therapy. My uncle fell from a tree and is quadriplegic. I’ve been fascinated by his independence in spite of all his limitations.
I went into physical therapy because of the many years I spent watching my grandfather and uncle benefit from physical therapy. I’ve had physical therapy myself for sports-related injuries.
What I like most about my work is the personal interaction with people. You see a patient several times a week and learn about their goals for physical therapy and get to support them in achieving those goals. Physical therapy involves both physical and emotional aspects. I get to share in patients’ joy as they begin to enjoy life again with improved physical health.
Volunteer in a clinic as a tech or an aide. The physical therapists would show you how you can be of help to them and to their patients. You don’t need special training before you volunteer. As a volunteer you would see what goes on in a physical therapy clinic, which might help you decide if this is the career for you.
There is always something new! This is a field that never stands still. There are always new techniques for you to learn. And patients are often our teachers, because we learn from the way a particular patient responds to a treatment, or doesn’t respond and needs a different approach.
Good grasp of the sciences (anatomy, biology, physiology); the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) provides resources for professional development. There are seminars and continuing education courses always available to stay current.
Massage therapist; athletic trainer.
Physical therapy is a growing field; high demand; good job security; part-time work is available.
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