Best Careers 2009: Physical Therapist

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This looks like a very fun but sad hands on job to do. Looks like alot of work.

Jalyssa of CT 4:35PM January 25, 2012

This helped alot on my research paper. Thanks (:

bree of AK 1:01AM December 09, 2011

I have thought about becoming a personal trainer for a while, but was worried about the lack of stability and growth. Then today someone suggested being a PT, and it's been on my mind. It's a lot of schooling to go through on a whim, though; what's the best way to get some in-field experience now to see if I think I'd like it? I live in NYC and I have a Master's Degree in Education and a Bachelor's in English, if it matters.

Paul of NY 8:27PM June 16, 2011

what are the criminal history limitations. I have a possession charge from when I was young & stupid.

Melissa of OR 2:36PM May 23, 2011

My dream is to become a physical therapist. That is the only thing that I talk when it comes down to having a career. But Im deciding on which college I will attend to be a doctor of physical therapy. Even though, I'm pretty young right now I know that soon I will be a physical therapist. Reading a "Day in the Life" really helps me see what it will be like once I get a job in this field.

Tay Tyler of IL 6:53PM January 31, 2011

I have been playing around with the idea of pursuing a career in physical therapy for years now. For over 20 yrs now I have worked in social services and I am 51 years old. The desire for a career in Physical therapy has returned strongly and wonder if I am too old?

James Malloy of PA 2:31PM December 07, 2010

i earned my bachelor's degree in physical therapy in the philippines in 2003. right after graduation, i ventured off into different jobs and totally neglected of my finished course.. one of my biggest regrets. now im planning to hit the books or even attend review classes within this year and take the board exam. what are the requirements for taking the review course or taking the board exam for international PT grads? or am i too late that i need to start over? pls let me know. thank you

M.C. 6:06PM July 19, 2010

I have practiced Physical Therapy since 1996. My MBA was concentrated in Healthcare Administration. I have engaged in both direct patient care and administration of physical therapy services. The one and only issue challenging our profession at this point, and throughout the 14 years I have been in the field, is compensation. The issue of compensation has become acute as our profession has advanced to the entry level doctorate, which I agree is the appropriate level of education. Earning a doctoral degree incurs a tremendous investment of time, effort and money (private universities currently costing $250,000 to complete a doctorate of physical therapy) that realizes an insufficient return on investment. A previous post points out that starting salaries are often higher than average for college graduates, they are not near commensurate with other doctorate level professionals. Furthermore, starting salaries progress anemically over the course of a Physical Therapist's career. Until physical therapy realizes its position as a true profession, and moves toward the physician model of professional autonomy within the economical arena, the will continue to be a significant shortage of P.T.'s in the United States.
T Bertoni, MSPT, MBA

Tom Bertoni of CT 10:42AM July 04, 2010

I have been working in the insurance arena for 20 years and decided its time for something I have been putting off. I have medical background and decided to now is the time. What are your thoughts on that. Also, I have herniated discs in my lower back and had two discs removed from my cervical spine. I have enjoyed the physical therapy sessions and decided that might be a better option for me. Do you think these limitations will prevent me from completing any clinicals? Let me know.

Ayesha of NJ 7:16PM June 30, 2010

I was in a similar situation. I'm 28 now. I graduated with a BA in Marketing in 2006- worked in sales for about 6 years. Then, decided it wasn't for me. I decided PT was a career I've always been passionate about. So, I said, why not? Took 2 years of prereqs. And now Im in a doctorate program that is 2 and a half years. It is VERY tough, especially with a business background! But, the reward of being a PT is worth the few tough years!
Good luck!!

matt of CA 8:20PM June 21, 2010