What Does a Physical Therapist Do?
A physical therapist helps patients recover mobility, strength, and independence after injury, illness, or surgery. They evaluate patient conditions, develop treatment plans, and use targeted exercises, stretches, and therapeutic techniques to restore movement and reduce pain. PTs often work with people recovering from orthopedic injuries, neurological conditions, or chronic illnesses, tailoring care to each patient’s specific needs. Their expertise improves patient function and helps reduce reliance on medication or invasive procedures.
Beyond direct treatment, a physical therapist collaborates with physicians, occupational therapists, nurses, and athletic trainers to ensure a holistic care plan. They educate patients and caregivers on exercises, posture, and preventive practices to avoid reinjury. In addition, PTs track progress over time, adjust treatment plans as needed, and document outcomes to support patient recovery and insurance requirements. Their role is critical in helping individuals maintain independence and achieve long-term health goals.
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Physical Therapist Core Responsibilities
- Evaluate patient conditions and develop personalized treatment plans
- Guide patients through therapeutic exercises and manual therapy techniques
- Use equipment such as treadmills, resistance bands, and ultrasound devices for treatment
- Monitor patient progress and adjust therapy plans as needed
- Educate patients and families on at-home exercises and preventive care
- Collaborate with physicians and other healthcare professionals for comprehensive treatment
- Maintain accurate patient records and comply with regulatory standards
- Assist patients in pain management and improving mobility for daily activities
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology
- Proficiency in therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, and physical modalities
- Ability to use rehabilitation equipment and technology
- Strong documentation and patient record management skills
Soft skills
- Compassion and empathy for patients coping with pain or disability
- Strong interpersonal and motivational abilities
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Clear communication with patients, families, and care teams
Education
- Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree required
Certifications
- State licensure as a physical therapist required
- Advanced certifications such as OCS (Orthopedic Clinical Specialist), NCS (Neurologic Clinical Specialist), or SCS (Sports Certified Specialist) recommended for specialization
Preferred Qualifications
- 1–3 years of clinical experience in a rehabilitation or outpatient setting
- Experience with electronic health record (EHR) systems
- Bilingual communication skills for diverse patient populations
National Average Salary
PT salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Physical Therapist (PT) is:
$98,320
Sample Job Description Templates for PTs
Entry-Level Physical Therapist
Position Overview
We are seeking an entry-level physical therapist to provide rehabilitation services under the supervision of experienced therapists. This position is ideal for recent Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) graduates who are beginning their careers and looking to gain practical experience across diverse patient populations.
Responsibilities
- Perform patient assessments with guidance from senior therapists
- Assist in developing and implementing treatment plans
- Conduct therapeutic exercises, stretches, and manual therapy techniques
- Educate patients on safe movement, posture, and at-home care routines
- Maintain accurate treatment notes and patient records
- Collaborate with senior therapists and other care providers on treatment decisions
Requirements
Hard skills
- Foundational knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics
- Basic proficiency in therapeutic exercises and mobility techniques
- Familiarity with rehabilitation equipment and technology
Soft skills
- Willingness to learn and accept mentorship
- Compassionate approach to patient care
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Education
- Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree required
Certifications
- State licensure as a physical therapist required
- Basic Life Support (BLS) certification recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- Clinical rotation or internship experience in hospital or outpatient settings
- Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems
Staff Physical Therapist
Position Overview
We are hiring a staff physical therapist to provide comprehensive patient evaluations and design individualized treatment plans. This role requires a licensed clinician capable of independently managing patient care while collaborating with other healthcare professionals.
Responsibilities
- Conduct detailed patient evaluations and establish treatment goals
- Design and implement personalized rehabilitation programs
- Utilize therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and equipment to improve function
- Track patient progress and adjust plans as needed
- Educate patients and caregivers on preventive strategies and self-care
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams for coordinated treatment
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in designing and implementing treatment programs
- Strong knowledge of physical therapy modalities and equipment
- Ability to maintain detailed and accurate patient records
Soft skills
- Strong problem-solving and critical thinking abilities
- Effective patient communication and motivation skills
- Collaborative mindset for working within healthcare teams
Education
- Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree required
Certifications
- State licensure as a physical therapist required
Preferred Qualifications
- 1–2 years of post-licensure clinical experience
- Experience in outpatient, inpatient, or rehabilitation settings
Senior Physical Therapist
Position Overview
We are seeking a senior physical therapist to manage complex patient cases and mentor less experienced therapists. This role requires extensive clinical experience and the ability to lead treatment planning in specialized areas.
Responsibilities
- Perform advanced assessments for patients with complex conditions
- Lead the development and implementation of therapy plans
- Mentor and provide guidance to entry-level and staff therapists
- Ensure compliance with professional standards and safety regulations
- Participate in program development and quality improvement initiatives
- Serve as a resource for specialized rehabilitation techniques
Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced knowledge of physical therapy techniques and modalities
- Ability to evaluate and treat complex patient cases
- Proficiency with electronic health records and documentation standards
Soft skills
- Leadership and mentoring abilities
- Strong decision-making and clinical judgment
- Effective communication with patients, caregivers, and interdisciplinary teams
Education
- Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree required
Certifications
- State licensure as a physical therapist required
- Advanced specialty certifications (OCS, NCS, or SCS) recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- 5+ years of clinical experience as a practicing physical therapist
- Previous experience training or supervising junior therapists
Lead Physical Therapist
Position Overview
We are hiring a lead physical therapist to oversee therapy services within a department or clinic. This position requires balancing patient care responsibilities with leadership duties such as scheduling, quality control, and staff support.
Responsibilities
- Supervise therapy team schedules and daily patient flow
- Provide direct care for patients with advanced rehabilitation needs
- Support staff therapists through training and case consultations
- Monitor compliance with healthcare regulations and organizational standards
- Collaborate with clinical leadership on program development
- Maintain patient satisfaction and quality outcomes across the department
Requirements
Hard skills
- Expertise in advanced therapy techniques and rehabilitation protocols
- Ability to manage team schedules and coordinate workflows
- Strong documentation and compliance monitoring skills
Soft skills
- Leadership and staff management abilities
- Excellent organizational and multitasking skills
- Clear communication across staff and management levels
Education
- Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree required
Certifications
- State licensure as a physical therapist required
- Specialty certifications recommended for leadership positions
Preferred Qualifications
- 7+ years of clinical experience, including supervisory responsibilities
- Experience implementing quality improvement initiatives
Physical Therapy Manager
Position Overview
We are seeking a physical therapy manager to oversee all operations of a physical therapy department or clinic. This leadership role involves staff management, program development, and ensuring compliance with healthcare standards while maintaining high-quality patient care.
Responsibilities
- Direct and manage the physical therapy team, including hiring and training staff
- Oversee daily operations, workflow, and scheduling
- Establish and maintain quality standards for patient care
- Develop and manage departmental budgets and resources
- Ensure compliance with healthcare regulations and organizational policies
- Collaborate with medical leadership to integrate physical therapy into broader care plans
- Lead performance reviews and professional development initiatives
Requirements
Hard skills
- Comprehensive understanding of physical therapy practices and clinical operations
- Strong leadership in staff management and organizational planning
- Ability to oversee compliance, budgeting, and reporting
Soft skills
- Strategic leadership and decision-making abilities
- Strong communication and conflict resolution skills
- Organizational skills with attention to detail
Education
- Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree required
Certifications
- State licensure as a physical therapist required
- Advanced leadership or management training recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- 10+ years of clinical experience with at least 3 years in management
- Experience leading large therapy teams or multidisciplinary rehab programs