How to Become a Sports Physical Therapist
Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Sports Physical Therapist
What does a Sports Physical Therapist do?
A Physical therapy (PT), also known as physiotherapy, by using mechanical force and movements (bio-mechanics or kinesiology), manual therapy, exercise therapy, and electrotherapy, remediates impairments and promotes mobility and function. Physical therapy is used to improve a patient's quality of life through examination, diagnosis, prognosis, physical intervention, and patient education. It is performed by physical therapists (known as physiotherapists in many countries). In addition to clinical practice, other activities encompassed in the physical therapy profession include research, education, consultation and administration. Physical therapy services may be provided as primary care treatment or alongside, or in conjunction with, other medical services.
Don’t let the words “sports” and “therapy” mislead you.
The Bureau of Labor notes that entry-level physical therapy jobs require a doctoral or professional degree (Doctor of Physical Therapy) from a CAPTE-accredited program.
Sports physical therapists must meet these same requirements.
They cannot specialize in sports without having first become a physical therapist.
College students considering physical therapy and sports physical therapy often major in athletic training, exercise physiology, or exercise science.
Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Sports Physical Therapist
Best tips for those who want to become a Sports Physical Therapist
Here are some tips to become a Sports Physical Therapist.
Master’s or Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy.
Obtain a Physical Therapy license.
Decrease the pain level, using manual techniques like massaging or modalities such as electrical stimulation, heat, or cold.
Improve the range of motion in an affected limb or area with manual techniques such as massage; passive or assisted exercise; and with modalities such as ultrasound, hydrotherapy or a combination of several of these.
Increase strength to a functional level by using weight machines, free weights, the athlete’s body weight, and static resistance.
Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Sports Physical Therapist
Best colleges and universities for Sports Physical Therapist
- Butler University
- Carroll College
- Cooper Union
- High Point University
- Princeton University
- Providence College
Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Sports Physical Therapist
Is being a Sports Physical Therapist Worth it?
Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited Physical Therapy program required.
The Sports Physical Therapist (Sports PT) position will demonstrate and deliver performance medicine departmental services while reporting functionally and….
A sports physical therapist treats clients who have experienced sports-related injuries.
Swimming, golfing, bowling and tennis are just some of the sports that can cause injuries that require a sports physical therapist.
As a sports physical therapist, you will help athletes recover from their injuries.
Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Sports Physical Therapist
What skills do you need to be a Sports Physical Therapist?
There are skills required to succeed in every role, and this one is no different. Strategic knowledge of the follow skills will be required: Administer Therapeutic Treatments, Medical Specialty: Physical Therapy. For success, a grasp of the following is key: Electronic health records (EHR) Software, Physical Therapy Software. Your ability to stand out from the competition depends on these skills, as well as your resume, interview, and other factors.
Before the start of treatment on a patient, the physical therapist will carry out series of functionality tests whereby the athlete mimics the movements and skills normally employed in their sport in completing various exercises and routines.
Sports physical therapists perform various functions in ensuring that athletes who have been injured are effectively treated and rehabilitated to return to their game stronger and better.
Knowledge of advanced physical therapy treatment procedures, such as dry needling, aquatic therapy, and concussion treatment.
You will be able to create a detailed sports physical therapist description that perfectly captures the role in your organization, and with it you can attract the best qualified professionals to your organization.
During your practice as a physical therapist, you must obtain direct patient care experience that includes evaluating and treating patients with “primary processes” as a result of sports activity.
Step 6: View average salary for Sports Physical Therapist
How much does a Sports Physical Therapist make?
The average salary range for a Sports Physical Therapist is from $78,477 to $93,129. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.
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Average salary for Sports Physical Therapist jobs
Step 7: Find relevant Sports Physical Therapist jobs, and apply.
Looking for Sports Physical Therapist jobs?
Here are some Sports Physical Therapist jobs in the United States.