Active Physical Therapy would not be what it is today without the hard work of our expert clinicians. This month as we continue to celebrate our outstanding Physical Therapists and Physical Therapist Assistants, let’s take a look at the road our amazing staff took in order to earn the privilege of working in Physical Therapy!
Physical Therapists (PTs) are highly-educated, licensed health care professionals who can help patients reduce pain and improve or restore mobility – in many cases without expensive surgery and often reducing the need for long-term use of prescription medications and their side effects (www.apta.org). In order to attain the prestigious Physical Therapist credential, one must earn a graduate degree – either a masters or a clinical doctorate from an educational program which is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) . Michigan Technological University offers a local option for Upper Peninsula students to earn a Physical Therapy degree. They have a collaborative program with Central Michigan University by utilizing distance learning.
According to the APTA, the length of most DPT (Doctor of Physical Therapy) programs is three years. During those three years, students are required to complete a rigorous curriculum which includes a variety of courses, all while meeting or exceeding strict GPA guidelines. Course work includes but is not limited to: biology/anatomy, cellular histology, physiology, exercise physiology, biomechanics, kinesiology, neuroscience, pharmacology, pathology, behavioral sciences, communication, ethics/values, management sciences, finance, sociology, clinical reasoning, evidence-based practice, cardiovascular and pulmonary, endocrine and metabolic, and musculoskeletal. Students then complete intensive clinical training designed to provide real-life experience at the end of their educational curriculum.
After graduation, candidates must pass a national board examination and meet all requirements for the state in which they wish to practice. Once all these requirements are met, candidates a are afforded candidates to officially begin practicing as a Physical Therapist.
Continuing education requirements vary by state, but in general are required to continue licensure. Many PTs choose to continue their education by completing a clinical residency or fellowship program, or by obtaining a specialist certification. These programs can many times take months or years to complete, and are a significant accomplishment for the Therapist.
For more information on how to become a physical therapist, click here.