The Profession
Physical Therapists
- Diagnose individuals who have medical problems or other health-related conditions that limit their mobility and ability to perform functional activities
- Restore, maintain, and promote physical function, quality of life, wellness and fitness as it relates to movement and health
- Prevent the onset of symptoms, and progression of impairments, functional limitations, and disabilities that may result from diseases, disorders, conditions, or injuries
- Work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, skilled nursing homes/rehabilitation facilities, with additional roles in home health agencies, schools, and sports settings.
Source: APTA Role of a PT
Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of Physical Therapists (PT) is projected to grow by 10.9% from 2024 to 2034. Demand for physical therapists will come in part from the large number of aging baby boomers, who are staying more active later in life than their counterparts of previous generations. U.S. News & World Report reports that in 2024, the median salary for PTs is $101,020.