Assess, plan, organize, and participate in rehabilitative programs that improve mobility, relieve pain, increase strength, and improve or correct disabling conditions resulting from disease or injury.
SOC: 29-1123.00
Common Job Titles
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Home Care Physical Therapist (Home Care PT)
Inpatient Physical Therapist (Inpatient PT)
Pediatric Physical Therapist (Pediatric PT)
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeDesign individualized rehabilitation programs integrating therapeutic modalities, exercise protocols, and evidence-based interventions to improve patient outcomes.
Advanced
KnowledgeSynthesize clinical findings, diagnostic test results, and patient-reported outcomes to formulate differential diagnoses and comprehensive treatment plans independently.
Advanced
KnowledgeEvaluate patient mobility deficits, pain levels, and functional limitations through systematic assessment and diagnostic testing in clinical rehabilitation settings.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess treatment effectiveness and patient progress using standardized outcome measures and clinical judgment to modify intervention strategies.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate for patient safety and optimal functional outcomes when collaborating with interdisciplinary healthcare teams and insurance providers.
Proficient
Hands-onDemonstrate mastery of gait training techniques and assistive device fitting ensuring patient safety while promoting independence in mobility.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret medical records, imaging results, and laboratory findings to inform clinical decision-making and coordinate care with referring physicians.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform manual therapy techniques and therapeutic exercises using specialized equipment and assistive devices to restore function and reduce pain.
Developing
Hands-onOperate electrotherapeutic equipment including ultrasound machines, TENS units, and electrical stimulation devices following established clinical protocols to deliver therapeutic interventions.
Developing
MindsetEngage patients and families in the therapeutic process building trust and motivation through empathetic communication and patient-centered care.
Developing
KnowledgeApply knowledge of anatomy, biomechanics, and pathophysiology to diagnose movement dysfunction and develop appropriate therapeutic interventions.
Developing
KnowledgeExplain treatment rationales, exercise techniques, and home program instructions to patients and caregivers in clear, accessible language that promotes adherence.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Physical Therapists (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
248,630
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $74,420. 25th percentile: U.S. $83,470. 50th percentile: U.S. $101,020. 75th percentile: U.S. $117,190. 90th percentile: U.S. $132,500. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$74,420
10% of workers earn the following or more
$132,500
Workers on average earn
$102,400
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Customer and Personal Service4.6/5
Therapy and Counseling4.6/5
Medicine and Dentistry4.6/5
Psychology4.1/5
English Language4.0/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
