• Physiotherapist Job Description

  A physiotherapist is a healthcare specialist who treats and rehabilitates people with diseases or injuries through physical means. Physiotherapists use scientific physical procedures to help people maximize their body mobility, functions and potentials. Some common conditions they manage include back aches, knee pains, arthritis, and fractured ribs.

  A physiotherapist should be level-headed, logical, practical, supportive and friendly, and have the ability to communicate effectively. They should be open-minded and able to relate to people of all ages and from a wide range of social, cultural and religious backgrounds. They should also be physically fit, and make exercise a habit so as to easily teach and demonstrate techniques of exercises to their patients.

  Pursue a career in physiotherapy if you have aptitude for science, interest in human movement and health, and a desire to assist people maximize their mobility and physical functions.

• What does a Physiotherapist do?

  Physiotherapists may do some or all of the following:

  • collaborate with doctors, nurses, social workers and other health care professionals
  • undertake a comprehensive assessment of a patient to understand their physical condition
  • work out fitness plans for patients to help them improve their strength and fitness
  • instruct patients and their families in techniques of exercises and the use of prosthetic devices
  • demonstrate the techniques for patients
  • monitor and keep records of patients' recovery progress
  • rub or knead parts of a patient’s body to stimulate circulation and promote relaxation
  • educate patients on how to prevent the aggravation of physical condition
  • help rehabilitate people who have suffered from strokes and accidents

• Where does a Physiotherapist work?

• Working Conditions

  Physiotherapists usually work normal office hours, but may be required to work evenings and weekends, or be on call. They work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, schools for handicapped children, private practices, sport centers and rehabilitation facilities.

• What is Required to Become a Physiotherapist?

  To become a physiotherapist, you will need to have a bachelor's degree in physiotherapy, medical rehabilitation or a similar discipline. In many countries, physiotherapists are required to be licensed to practice.

• Modules

  Just to give you an idea, some of the classes that you’ll be taking in college may include:

  • Chemistry
  • Psychology
  • Anatomy
  • Physiology
  • Movement Science
  • Biomechanics
  • Clinical Physiotherapy
  • Applied Physiotherapy

• Specializations

• Knowledge, Skills and Attributes

  Physiotherapists need to have:

  • empathy
  • creativity
  • resilience
  • patience
  • adaptability
  • self-discipline
  • self-motivation
  • scientific aptitude
  • confidence and assertiveness
  • honesty and integrity
  • physical and mental stamina
  • good memory
  • good attention to detail
  • good interpersonal skills
  • good listening and communication skills
  • good judgment and decision making skills
  • time management and organizational skills
  • analytical and problem-solving skills
  • observational skills
  • the ability to work well under pressure
  • the ability to work well independently and as part of a team
  • the ability to work in close proximity to patients
  • knowledge of movement science
  • knowledge of injuries, disabilities and the aging process
  • knowledge of physiotherapy methods and equipment
  • knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology
  • knowledge of movement retraining, mobilization, exercise, manipulation and massage techniques

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