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Orthopedic Physical Therapist
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What they do
A Physical Therapist helps patients with physically disabling conditions or injuries to improve their ability to move and manage their pain. Uses techniques including targeted exercises and massage therapy. Works in conjunction with other healthcare providers to provide rehabilitation to patients after an injury or illness. May specialize in treating certain types of injuries or patients.
$87,376 / year median in Texas
+11% projected growth
Job Description
Job SummaryThe Physical Therapist organizes and conducts medically prescribed Physical Therapy to relieve pain, restore function, evaluate and prevent disability following disease, injury, or loss of a body part; helps the patient reach maximum performance and assume a place in society while learning to live within the limits of his or her capabilities; plans therapy programs for each patient involving physical means; such as exercise, massage, manual therapy, heat, water, light, and electricity as prescribed by the referring physician; applies diagnostic and prognostic tests for muscles, nerves, and joints, and functional ability tests; directs and aides patients in active and passive exercises, muscle reeducation, and gait and functional training using machines and weights, steps, and inclined services; makes use of equipment such as low and high volt generators, diathermy, and ultrasound machines; gives whirlpools and contrast baths and applies moist heat packs; treats burned and open wound patients as directed by the physician; directs patients in the care and use of wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, braces, canes, and prosthetic and orthotic devices; gives instructions in postural control and therapeutic exercise to be continued by the patient; performs initial evaluations, re-evaluations, and records patient's progress for review by other members of the rehabilitation team; may supervise activities of assistants, aides, and volunteer workers; may conduct or participate in training medical and nursing students, employers, and workers in physical therapy techniques and objective.
EducationEducation TypeProgram of StudyRequired/PreferredHigh School DiplomaN/ARequiredDoctoratePhysical Therapy (DPT)Required
•After
•a Doctorate of Physical Therapy is required.
ExperienceNumber of YearsType of ExperienceRequired/PreferredCertification & LicensuresCertification/Licensure TypeRequired/PreferredLicensed Physical TherapistRequiredBasic Life Support (BLS) CertificationRequired
•Certification in Pelvic HealthPreferred
•Must obtain within ninety (90) days of