Orthopedic Physical Therapist

Job Summary The Physical Therapist organizes and conducts medically prescribed Physical Therapy to relieve pain, restore function, evaluate and prevent disability following disease, injury, or loss of a body part; helps the patient reach maximum performance and assume a place in society while learning to live within the limits of his or her capabilities; plans therapy programs for each patient involving physical means; such as exercise, massage, manual therapy, heat, water, light, and electricity as prescribed by the referring physician; applies diagnostic and prognostic tests for muscles, nerves, and joints, and functional ability tests; directs and aides patients in active and passive exercises, muscle reeducation, and gait and functional training using machines and weights, steps, and inclined services; makes use of equipment such as low and high volt generators, diathermy, and ultrasound machines; gives whirlpools and contrast baths and applies moist heat packs; treats burned and open wound patients as directed by the physician; directs patients in the care and use of wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, braces, canes, and prosthetic and orthotic devices; gives instructions in postural control and therapeutic exercise to be continued by the patient; performs initial evaluations, re-evaluations, and records patient’s progress for review by other members of the rehabilitation team; may supervise activities of assistants, aides, and volunteer workers; may conduct or participate in training medical and nursing students, employers, and workers in physical therapy techniques and objective.

The following information provides an overview of the skills, qualities, and qualifications needed for this role.

Education Education Type Program of Study Required / Preferred High School Diploma N / A Required Doctorate Physical Therapy (DPT) Required

• After 2015 a Doctorate of Physical Therapy is required.

Experience Number of Years Type of Experience Required / Preferred Certification & Licensures Certification / Licensure Type Required / Preferred Licensed Physical Therapist Required Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification Required