After reviewing a patient’s history, a PT will guide the patient through a series of movements or exercises to diagnose the individual’s needs and challenges. The therapist then creates a custom care plan for the patient, complete with quantifiable goals.

Physical therapists entering the profession need a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. All states require physical therapists to be licensed. Specialty-related certifications may be required for specific allied healthcare or rehab therapy positions, along with proof of eligibility to work in the United States.

A physical therapist is an allied professional who works to reduce patients’ pain, restore or improve their mobility, and prevent future injury.

The ideal candidate will be thorough and competent at examining patients' medical histories, then testing and measuring their strength, range of motion, balance and coordination, posture, muscle performance, respiration, and motor function. The PT prescribes the best treatment strategy for each individual.

According to Payscale.com, the average annual salary for a Licensed Physical Therapist is over $76,000 in 2024. The highest earners can make over 6 figures annually. Both permanent and travel PTs may be eligible for additional bonuses. The physical therapy field is growing in terms of pay and hiring volume. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the physical therapy field will grow 15 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. Because a growing number of healthcare employers emphasize therapy as an alternative or a prior requirement to surgery, a travel PT career is one with a strong future.