Physical Therapists (PT’s) are health care professionals who diagnose and treat individuals of all ages, from newborns to the very oldest, who have medical problems or other health-related conditions that limit their abilities to move and perform functional activities in their daily lives.

PT's examine each individual and develop a plan using treatment techniques to promote the ability to move, reduce pain, restore function, and prevent disability.  In addition, PT’s work with individuals to prevent the loss of mobility before it occurs by developing fitness- and wellness-oriented programs for healthier and more active lifestyles.  

Physical therapists provide care for people in a variety of settings, including hospitals, private practices, outpatient clinics, home health agencies, schools, sports and fitness facilities, work settings, and nursing homes. State licensure is required in each state in which a physical therapist practices.

All PT’s must receive a graduate degree from an accredited physical therapist program before taking the national licensure examination that allows them to practice.  The majority of programs offer the doctor of physical therapy (DPT) degree.

The minimum educational requirement is a post-baccalaureate degree from an accredited education program.  While some programs offer a master's degree, a growing majority of programs offer the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree.  Currently, 199 colleges and universities nationwide offer professional physical therapist education programs; 85.7% offer the DPT and the remaining programs are planning to convert.  After graduation, candidates must pass a state-administered national exam.  Other requirements for physical therapy practice vary from state to state according to physical therapy practice acts or state regulations governing physical therapy.