Physical Therapists provide services to patients that help restore function and improve mobility in those suffering from illness, injury, or disease. They work with patients with debilitating conditions including arthritis, heart disease, fracture, head injury, and cerebral palsy. Physical Therapists design treatment plans that help patients to use their own muscles to increase mobility, with a goal to improve how the individual functions alone. Physical Therapists use a variety of techniques to relieve pain for patients including deep tissue massage, electrical stimulations, and hot and cold packs. Physical Therapists work closely along side other physicians, and may also choose to further specialize in an area such as cardiology, geriatrics, orthopedics, and sports medicine.

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Physical Therapist Salary

Overall, Physical Therapist salaries are based on years of experience, location, and the type of facility.

According to Salary.com, the current median expected salary for a Physical Therapist in the United States is $61,713.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a difference in salary for Physical Therapists according to type of facility as follows:

Home health care services: $64,650
Nursing care facilities: $61,720
Offices of physicians: $61,270
Hospitals: $60,350

Physical Therapist Job Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for physical therapists is expected to grow much faster than average between now and 2014. The demand for therapy services is expected to increase as the growth of individuals with disabilities and limited functioning increase.

Job opportunities for Physical Therapists are expected to be best in acute hospitals, rehabilitation, and orthopaedic settings. Also, the aging of the baby boom population will spark and increase in heart attacks and strokes, which require cardiac and physical rehabilitation.

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