Career in physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is a primary-care health profession dedicated to improving and maintaining physical mobility; preventing, managing and reducing pain, physical limitations or disabilities and improving overall health and well-being. It is one of the fastest-growing allied areas of medicine today.

It is used to cure weak muscles, difficulties in the movement of shoulder and knee joints, paralysis, inborn and acquired deformities, gynecological ailments and other such disorders. Patients with such problems are referred by medical practitioners to physiotherapists who then help patients to recover and rehabilitate from this state of incapacity. Techniques used include manipulation, massage, exercise, hydrotherapy, vibration, ultrasound and infrared and ultraviolet radiation

Physiotherapists assess the client's level of mobility, strength, endurance and other physical abilities to determine the impact of their illness or injury on their physical function. They diagnose the condition and develop a treatment plan to restore movement and reduce pain or limitations to mobility. Then they provide individualized treatment based on scientific knowledge, and evaluate the progress of the condition.

The work of a physiotherapist may tend to be physically very strenuous as it involves physically lifting and supporting patients. This profession brings with it much satisfaction, since it involves relieving patients of pain and helping them recover from specific physical ailments.

The job of a physiotherapist is challenging but lucrative at the same time. Although a relatively new profession in India, the demand for physiotherapists in the country is immense, especially with increasingly sedentary lifestyles.

Qualifications

To become a practicing physiotherapist or be employed as a professional in a hospital or clinic, one should have a B.Sc. degree or a diploma in physiotherapy. One could also go in for a post graduation course.

The courses are designed to give the students a basic understanding of the human body, based on medical sciences, training in understanding the procedures for therapy and the related skill training. A major part of the course work is practical in nature including an internship period where students work under the supervision of professionals at various hospitals and institutions.

Personal Traits

The job of a physiotherapist is very people oriented hence it requires excellent interpersonal skills, patience and understanding, a sympathetic approach towards the patients and a keen desire to help people live their normal lives. To be a good physiotherapist, one needs scientific reasoning and problem solving skill, ability to memorize and recall scientific facts, manual dexterity and physical stamina to work long hours, strength of mind and purpose, team spirit, good observation power, ability to instill confidence and courage in patients. These attributes together with a thorough knowledge of the human anatomy are the makings of a successful physiotherapist.

Career Options

Employment opportunities for physiotherapists are tremendous. Like all other medical professionals, physiotherapists can work in hospitals, orthopedic departments, rehabilitation centers for the handicapped, schools for the mentally retarded and physically disabled children, health institutions and defense medical establishments.

Physiotherapists can also opt for teaching , while further developing their skills and expertise. Physiotherapists may also find work as specialist researchers, advisers or consultants with research centers or in private industry. More experienced and qualified practitioners later find employment opportunities in administration and management, or as directors of major research projects and facilities. Those with adequate capital can establish private clinics of their own.

The increasingly sedentary urban lifestyles and lack of exercise brings on a whole gamut or body aches and pains, which requires the assistance of specialized physiotherapists.
With increased emphasis on sport and fitness, and with greater awareness of occupational health and safety, aged care, and the needs of disabled people, further opportunities will continue to emerge for trained professionals in physiotherapy.