In our review of different careers we take a look at how to become a physiotherapist and the qualities and education needed to become a qualified physiotherapist.
What Does a Physiotherapist Do?
A physiotherapist works with people who have a limited range of movement in a body part. This could be due to an illness or an accident. The physiotherapist will work with the individual to enable them to gradually and over time increase their range of movement and hopefully get them back to moving how they should be.
A physiotherapist may be assisting an elderly person who is struggling to walk, a footballer who has suffered an injury on the field, a someone who has been in a car accident and suffered an injury.
As a physiotherapist, you use a variety of different techniques to assist your clients, such as hydrotherapy, ultrasound, acupuncture, massage, therapeutic exercise and physical manipulation. You would create treatment plans for individuals, determining which is the best way to heal them, and then assist them in their recovery.
You would need to keep accurate records of your patient's progress and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
Is Becoming a Physiotherapist Right For Me?
A physiotherapist needs to have the following skills and attributes:
- An understanding of anatomy.
- Patience and sensitivity.
- Excellent communication skills.
- The ability to work with other professionals.
- Good inter-personal skills.
How Much Can a Physiotherapist Earn?
A physiotherapist in the NHS earns between £21,000 and £28,000 a year. If you specialise this can rise to £35,000 a year.
What Qualifications Do I Need To Become a Physiotherapist?
To become a physiotherapist you need to have a degree in physiotherapy.
