Physical therapists are in high demand, and they have plenty of opportunities to make a good living. However, it’s important to be aware of the cost of living in your area before you make any decisions. In this article, we’ll outline some common expenses that physical therapists face on a daily basis, as well as how much they typically earn.
What is a Physical Therapist?
A physical therapist is a doctor who specializes in the treatment of injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Physical therapists work with patients to help restore function to their muscles, joints, and other structures.
The median annual wage for physical therapists was $72,480 in May 2015. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $55,520 and the highest 10 percent earned more than $92,910. The majority of PTs work in private practice.
Like many medical professionals, PTs generally earn based on experience and education level. However, unlike most doctors who typically work as salaried employees, PTs typically earn a percentage of the fees they charge for services. This can mean that PTs can have a very variable income depending on the amount of business they are able to bring in.
What does a Physical Therapist do?
A physical therapist is a healthcare professional who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system. They work with patients of all ages, and can often prescribe medications, treatments, or exercises to help improve their health.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, physical therapists earn an average wage of $75,590 per year. This means that a physical therapist can expect to make a comfortable income while working in the field. Additionally, many states provide benefits such as healthcare insurance and paid sick days, which can further increase a therapist’s income.
Physical therapists typically work in clinics or hospitals, but they also may work in private practices or as trainers for other healthcare professionals. They are usually required to have a doctoral degree in physical therapy, and many also hold certifications from professional organizations such as the American Physical Therapy Association.
Physical therapists are responsible for a wide range of activities, including performing physical examinations and assessments, prescribing treatments and exercises, providing education and training to patients and their families, and providing support during rehabilitation. They often work alongside other healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, and chiropractors to provide comprehensive care for those affected by injuries or diseases.
The job outlook for physical therapists is good, as the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the employment of physical therapists will grow by 10 percent between 2012 and 2022. This is due in part to the increasing trend of people using physical therapy as part of their regular healthcare routine, as well as the increasing popularity of alternative therapies such as yoga and meditation that may be beneficial for treating injuries and diseases.
The Average Salary for a Physical Therapist
According to Indeed.com, the average salary for a physical therapist is $68,000 per year. Physical therapists who work in specialized areas, such as orthopedic or sports therapy, can earn even more.
Physical therapists often work in hospitals and rehabilitation centers, but they also work in private practices. They typically must hold a license from the state in which they practice.
Physical therapists must have at least an undergraduate degree in physical therapy, although some may have a master’s or doctoral degree. They must also pass a state licensing exam.
How to Become a Physical Therapist
Becoming a physical therapist can be an exciting and fulfilling career. However, before you make the jump, it’s important to know how much therapists earn. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, physical therapists can expect to earn an annual salary of $73,190. This figure includes salaries for both those who work in clinical settings and those who work in research and development. In addition, physical therapists can also expect to receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and a variety of other benefits.
If you’re interested in a career as a physical therapist, it’s important to have a strong degree in physical therapy. However, even if you don’t have a degree in physical therapy, there are many ways to become a therapist. You can attend an accredited physical therapist program or find a physical therapist who is willing to train you. In addition, you can also explore becoming a certified physical therapist assistant. If you want to become a physical therapist, it’s important to start planning your career path now.
Conclusion
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the salary of a physical therapist will vary depending on several factors, including experience and location. However, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for physical therapists was $72,480 in May 2017. Considering that many PTs work in clinics and hospitals rather than traditional offices or private practices, it’s safe to say that those in smaller settings may earn less than their counterparts working in larger metropolitan areas. Additionally, PTs who are certified through National certification examinations (e.g., American Physical Therapy Association [APTA], Canadian Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage [CCBTM]) typically command higher salaries than those who are not certified.
