Thanks
in part to an aging population,
the medical professionals who plan and execute
rehabilitative programs designed to improve patient mobility and lessen pain
are in high demand. Physical therapists might work in a clinic, hospital or
private office, and your patients could include an injured soldier, an aging
athlete or a recent accident victim. It’s your job to test and measure their
coordination, muscle strength, range of motion and motor function. You may
consult with other medical-care providers, including physicians, occupational
therapists and social workers. Job opportunities look good in the field, and
employment is expected to grow much faster than average thanks to rising demand
for such services among older baby boomers
SALARY
By 2022, the Bureau of
Labor Statistics projects physical therapist employment growth of 36 percent,
with the field adding 73,500 more jobs. Driving this demand for physical
therapists are older people who experience heart attacks, strokes and other
injuries that require rehabilitation. Physical therapists are also increasingly
being called upon to help manage chronic conditions, including diabetes and
obesity. The median
annual wage for physical therapists was $79,860 in 2012, according to the BLS.
The best-paid 10 percent of workers in the category made $112,020, while the
bottom 10 percent made $55,620. The highest wages are for home health care and
consulting positions. The best-paid physical therapists live in Las Vegas,
Fairbanks, Alaska, and Jacksonville, Fla.
2004 $60,000
2006 $66,000
2008 $72,000
2010 $78,000
2012 $84,000
TRAINING
At a minimum, you’ll need a master’s degree and a state license
to become a practicing therapist. Many students also pursue a doctor of
physical therapy degree, and new graduates taking the national licensure
examination in the field after 2017 will be required to hold such a degree.
Most doctoral programs take three years, compared with two or two and a half
for a master’s. Many licenses also require continuing education in order to
stay certified.
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