A branch in the field of medicine where disabilities in the structure of the body
are treated with medically approved exercises and equipment, physiotherapy is a
part of the medical field. The disabilities may be caused by an accident or an orthopedic
disorder and physiotherapy is recommended along with the prescribed medicines. Body
movements, joint structures and dislocations are treated very effectively with physiotherapy.
Besides exercises it also includes, heat, radiation, massages, tractions and many
others. A physiotherapist is a person who performs the physiotherapy on the patient
and guides the patients towards recovery.
Eligibility
Regarding the educational qualifications, the physiotherapist has to acquire a degree
in the related field. Most medical colleges conduct para-medical courses of which
one of them is Physiotherapy. There is a range of diploma and degree courses in
Physiotherapy and the person aspiring to be a physiotherapist should acquire one
of the two.
Required Skills to become a Physiotherapist
Though they are not considered to be on the same level as the doctors, they are
equally significant in treating patients. The physiotherapist is expected to follow
the doctors prescribed exercises for the patient. Some of the skills required include:
- A thorough knowledge of the human anatomy and bone structure
- A complete and comprehensive understanding of the movement of joints and also the
structure and function of the muscles, bones and nerves.
- Ability to handle any number of patients
- A compassionate mindset to be able to understand the suffering of the patient
- On training the patient on the right physiotherapy exercises, the therapist is expected
to monitor the improvement in the patient.
How to become a Physiotherapist?
Once the academic qualifications have been acquired, the physiotherapist can join
a leading and reputed hospital or a physiotherapist center to learn the treatment
procedure. After a couple of years the physiotherapist can become one by taking
up the role of a physiotherapist in a hospital or clinic.
Job Description
The job description of a physiotherapist includes the following duties:
- Organizing of therapy programs depending on the patients need
- Implementing specific therapy programs if the patient so requires, it as part of
the treatment process
- Massages, and other exercises to be administered
- Monitoring the therapy program, noting the results,, identifying improvements, maintaining
results log and reporting to the doctor who has recommended the patients
- Counseling’s regarding physiotherapy exercises that needs to be done by the patient
at home without the guidance of the therapist.
Career Prospects
There is a great demand for physiotherapists and hence the job prospects are very
bright. Besides, hospitals and clinics there are job opportunities in various other
sectors like rehabilitation centers, institutions that take care of the physically
handicapped and other departments related to the medical field.
Salary
The salary of a physiotherapist is quite lucrative and depending on the place of
work, the salary can differ. Besides, earning a salary at the place of work, the
physiotherapist can also freelance as one in health centers and health clubs.