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A physical therapist evaluates and treats physical illnesses and injuries, which
are usually caused by developmental problems, diseases and injuries. A physical
therapist determines what physical activities an individual should do to strengthen
and/or build endurance to improve walking, balance, sports performance and any daily
activities they perform. Physical therapists will then develop individualized
programs to help meet a patient?s physical needs. These physical needs may span
from learning how to walk again using an artificial limb to conducting therapeutic
exercise programs for relieving pain to helping an Olympic athlete to reach his/her
fullest potential. Physical therapists can treat variety of physical needs or may
specialize in certain areas such as pediatrics or cardiopulmonary diseases.
Physical therapists also develop programs designed to help prevent physical
injuries. Physical therapists work in a variety of settings to include hospitals,
private clinics, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, home health agencies, etc.
In terms of education, this position requires an individual to be a graduate of an
accredited physical therapy education program. Currently, individuals can obtain a
bachelor?s degree (four years in length), a master?s degree (six to seven years in length) or a
doctorate (seven to eight years in length). Beginning in 2002, only programs offering a
master?s degree will be accredited. After completion of the educational program,
individuals must pass a state administered national examination to become a licensed
physical therapist. In Ohio, licensing board information can be found at the
State of Ohio Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Athletic Trainers
Board website. For additional information on physical therapy, please visit
the American Physical Therapy Association
website. Please use the links provided below to learn more about specific
educational programs pertaining to this field.
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