Physical Therapist Job Description

What is the job description of a Physical Therapist? What are the duties and responsibilities of a Physical Therapist? What does a Physical Therapist do?

Job description of a Physical Therapist

Physical therapists, also known as physical therapy technicians or sport therapists, use exercises, massage, functional movement training and other techniques to help people with injuries and illness recover movement, reduce pain, get stronger and more flexible, and perform day to day tasks.

This Physical Therapist job description example includes the list of most important Physical Therapist duties and responsibilities as shown below. It can be modified to fit the specific Physical Therapist profile you're trying to fill as a recruiter or job seeker.

Physical Therapist Duties and Responsibilities

Physical Therapist job description should contain a variety of functions and roles including:

  • Consulting with patients to learn about their physical condition.
  • Assessing and interpreting patient evaluations and test results.
  • Developing treatment plans using a variety of treatment techniques.
  • Providing educational information about injury prevention, ergonomics and ways to promote physical health.
  • Administering medically prescribed physical therapy treatments to relieve pain and improve mobility.
  • Advising patients on exercise techniques.
  • Advising patients and their families about in-home treatment options.
  • Consulting and collaborating with other healthcare professionals.
  • Documenting patient care history.
  • Complying with rules, regulations, and procedures.
  • Creating personalized fitness-oriented health care programs for patients.

Physical Therapist Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

Physical Therapist job description should include these common skills and qualifications:

  • A master degree in Physical Therapy from an accredited educational institution.n (NPTE).
  • Compliant with state /national regulatory requirements.
  • A valid license to practice physical therapy.
  • Excellent interpersonal communication skills.
  • Ability to manage patients with different personalities.
  • Ability to write reports and correspondence at a professional level.
  • Ability to use a computer and software proficiently.
  • Drive to continually learn new treatment techniques.
  • Compassionate and attentive to detail.
  • Possess up-to-date knowledge of treatment practices.
  • Ability to solve problems independently.
  • Excellent analytical and logical thinking.

As a hiring manager, recruiting an ideal Physical Therapist starts with crafting a good job description. Use this Physical Therapist job description template to save yourself time and help you attract the most qualified candidates. Feel free to revise it to meet your specific needs.

Job seekers interviewing for the role of a Physical Therapist may also reference it in preparation for the interview.