Physical Therapist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

physical therapist job description

In the realm of healthcare, the role of physical therapists has never been more vital.

As our understanding of human health and wellbeing advances, so too does the demand for skilled professionals who can restore, enhance and maintain our physical capabilities.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a physical therapist?

Whether you are:

  • A job seeker trying to comprehend the depth of this role,
  • A hiring manager mapping out the ideal candidate,
  • Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of physical therapy,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable physical therapist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Physical Therapist Duties and Responsibilities

Physical Therapists use their knowledge of the human body and rehabilitation techniques to help patients recover from injuries or manage chronic conditions.

Their primary responsibilities often include:

  • Evaluating patients’ physical conditions, mobility, strength, and flexibility
  • Developing personalized treatment plans to improve patients’ mobility, relieve pain, or prevent or limit permanent physical disabilities
  • Performing therapeutic exercises with patients and teaching them exercises they can do at home
  • Using specialized techniques such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, or aquatic therapy
  • Monitoring and documenting patients’ progress and adjusting treatment plans as needed
  • Coordinating with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians or occupational therapists, to plan and adjust treatment
  • Educating patients and their families about their conditions and how to manage them
  • Maintaining patient confidentiality and adhering to professional standards, policies, and procedures

 

Physical Therapist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a qualified and dedicated Physical Therapist to provide excellent care to our patients.

The Physical Therapist will be responsible for assessing patient conditions, developing individualized treatment plans, and implementing various physical therapy interventions to alleviate pain, restore function, and prevent disability.

The ideal candidate will have outstanding knowledge of physical therapy principles, excellent manual dexterity, and strong interpersonal skills.

 

Responsibilities

  • Examine patients and develop a treatment plan that will meet their needs
  • Implement various physical therapy interventions and treatment modalities
  • Review and evaluate the effectiveness of treatment interventions
  • Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team including doctors, occupational therapists, and speech therapists
  • Offer guidance and support to patients and their families
  • Educate patients about how to improve and maintain their health
  • Document patient care services by charting in patient and department records
  • Maintain patient confidence by keeping information confidential

 

Qualifications

  • Proven work experience as a Physical Therapist
  • Degree in Physical Therapy from an accredited university
  • Current license to practice Physical Therapy
  • Excellent knowledge of physiology and kinesiology
  • Strong manual dexterity and physical stamina
  • Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
  • Ability to manage patients with different types of personalities
  • Good problem-solving skills

 

Benefits

  • 401(k)
  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Retirement plan
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

  • Job Title: Physical Therapist
  • Work Environment: Clinical setting. Travel to patient homes or facilities may be required.
  • Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Rehabilitation Services.
  • Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
  • Pay Range: $74,000 minimum to $108,000 maximum
  • Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
  • Employment Type: Full-time
  • Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
  • Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Physical Therapist Do?

Physical Therapists, also known as PTs, work in a variety of healthcare settings, such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, private practices, home health agencies, schools, sports and fitness facilities.

Their main role is to help patients improve or restore mobility, reduce pain, and avoid surgery or long-term use of prescription medications.

This is achieved through the creation of personalized treatment plans that include exercises, stretches, and other therapeutic measures.

Physical Therapists evaluate each patient’s individual needs and physical abilities using a variety of diagnostic tests.

This initial evaluation forms the basis of their treatment plan, which may include exercises to strengthen weak areas, stretching routines to increase flexibility, or balance exercises to prevent falls.

Apart from these, PTs also use techniques such as massage, heat or cold therapy, water therapy, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound to relieve pain and reduce swelling.

They also guide and motivate patients as they work to improve their physical strength and mobility, and educate them about their condition, explaining what causes their symptoms and how their therapy will help.

As part of their role, Physical Therapists maintain patient records, documenting goals, treatment plans, and progress.

They also collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as doctors and occupational therapists, to ensure a coordinated approach to patient care.

In addition to these responsibilities, many Physical Therapists are actively involved in health promotion and disease prevention programs.

 

Physical Therapist Qualifications and Skills

Physical Therapists are expected to utilize both professional knowledge and interpersonal skills to provide patients with the best possible care.

Key qualifications and skills include:

  • Strong knowledge of human anatomy and physiology to accurately diagnose and treat patient’s mobility issues.
  • Excellent manual dexterity and physical stamina to perform various therapeutic exercises and manual therapy techniques.
  • Problem-solving skills to assess, diagnose, and develop an appropriate treatment plan for patients.
  • Interpersonal and communication skills to effectively explain treatment plans, motivate patients, and provide emotional support during therapy sessions.
  • Patience and compassion to work with patients who may be in pain or have difficulty with physical tasks.
  • Time management skills to ensure that each patient receives adequate attention and care within their appointment time.
  • Record-keeping skills to accurately document patient progress and adjust treatment plans as necessary.
  • Collaboration skills to work effectively with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians and occupational therapists, to coordinate patient care.

 

Physical Therapist Experience Requirements

Physical Therapists typically begin their professional journey by earning a Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from an accredited institution.

This degree program typically includes a significant amount of clinical experience.

Entry-level Physical Therapists may have 1 to 2 years of clinical experience, often acquired through internships or placements during their DPT program.

These professionals can gain practical experience in roles such as Physical Therapy Assistant or Physical Therapy Aide.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often develop their technical skills and patient care knowledge in entry-level Physical Therapist roles.

At this point, they may specialize in areas such as orthopedics, sports medicine, pediatrics, geriatrics, or neurology.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have leadership experience in their background and may be prepared for roles such as Physical Therapy Director or Rehabilitation Services Manager.

Additionally, many employers also require Physical Therapists to be licensed in the state where they practice and may prefer candidates who have earned professional certification in a specialty area.

 

Physical Therapist Education and Training Requirements

Physical Therapists typically require a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, which usually takes about three years to complete after obtaining a bachelor’s degree.

Prior to entering a DPT program, candidates are generally expected to have completed certain prerequisite courses, often in biology, chemistry, and physics, during their undergraduate studies.

Most DPT programs consist of both academic coursework and clinical internships.

Coursework includes subjects such as anatomy, biomechanics, neuroscience, and pharmacology, while internships provide hands-on experience in areas such as acute care, orthopedic, pediatric, and geriatric physical therapy.

After completing a DPT program, Physical Therapists must be licensed to practice.

This involves passing the National Physical Therapy Examination, administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.

Some Physical Therapists may choose to pursue a residency or fellowship in a specialized area of practice, such as geriatrics, sports physical therapy, or orthopedics.

These programs generally last one to three years and combine further education and training with clinical practice.

Physical Therapists are also required to participate in continuing education to maintain their license.

This can involve attending workshops, courses, or conferences, or completing self-study courses.

Voluntary specialist certification can also be pursued for those interested in demonstrating their expertise and commitment in a particular area of practice.

These certifications are awarded by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties and require passing an exam and demonstrating a certain amount of clinical experience in the specialty area.

 

Physical Therapist Salary Expectations

A Physical Therapist makes an average of $89,440 (USD) per year.

This salary can vary based on factors such as experience, specializations, geographical location, and the setting in which they practice, such as private practice or a public healthcare institution.

 

Physical Therapist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Physical Therapist need?

Physical Therapists need a combination of technical and soft skills.

They should be knowledgeable about different types of physical therapy treatments and techniques.

An understanding of anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics is vital.

Strong interpersonal and communication skills are needed to understand patients’ concerns and explain treatment plans effectively.

They should also possess patience, empathy, and the ability to motivate patients during their recovery process.

 

Do Physical Therapists need a degree?

Yes, Physical Therapists must have a degree.

They are required to complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, which typically takes three years.

Before entering a DPT program, candidates must have a bachelor’s degree and have completed prerequisite courses, often in biology, chemistry, and physics.

After completing the DPT program, physical therapists also need to be licensed by their state.

 

What should you look for in a Physical Therapist resume?

When reviewing a Physical Therapist’s resume, you should first ensure they have a DPT and a valid state license.

Look for experience in various types of physical therapy treatments and patient care.

A strong candidate will have experience in areas like orthopedics, geriatrics, pediatrics, or neurologic rehabilitation.

Certifications in specialized areas, such as sports or pediatric physical therapy, can also be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Physical Therapist?

A good Physical Therapist is patient and empathetic, as they work with patients who may be in pain or experiencing physical discomfort.

They should be able to motivate and encourage patients to achieve their treatment goals.

Good physical therapists are also lifelong learners who stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in physical therapy.

They should possess problem-solving skills to devise effective treatment plans for diverse conditions.

 

What are the daily duties of a Physical Therapist?

A Physical Therapist’s daily duties include evaluating patient conditions, developing individualized treatment plans, guiding patients through exercises and therapies, and monitoring patient progress.

They also document patient’s progress and communicate with other healthcare professionals, such as doctors and occupational therapists, to coordinate care.

In some cases, they might also educate patients and their families about what to expect from the recovery process and how best to cope with challenges.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the intricacies behind being a physical therapist.

And guess what?

It’s not just about treating injuries.

It’s about shaping a healthier, more mobile future, one patient at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive physical therapist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your key to creating precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every patient you assist is part of a larger movement towards wellness.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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