A physiotherapist, or physical therapist (PT), is a trained allied health professional who treat physical impairments due to injury, illness, prolonged inactivity or aging. The specific focus of physiotherapy is the muscular system. To become a physiotherapist, education must be obtained by an accredited school. An accredited school has a program which has undergone extensive review by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education, also known as CAPTE accreditation. This accreditation ensures the quality of educational courses and that of the instructors.

In order to become a physiotherapist, you must obtain a post-baccalaureate degree. In other words, you must continue your education beyond a bachelor’s degree and obtain a master’s or doctorate degree. Though no specific undergraduate degree is required, focusing on a science major is your best bet. You must also obtain licensure after schooling and maintain it in good standing.

To become a physiotherapist, you must attain a high grade point average (GPA), typically a minimum of 3.0, especially in the sciences, including chemistry, biology, statistics and physics. Many programs also require at least one anatomy and physiology course prior to acceptance. Volunteering is also an important determining factor in acceptance into physiotherapy studies. Colleges tend to favor those who have volunteered in a physical therapy setting, as a physical therapy aide for example, in addition to other community service activities. Letters of recommendation from a licensed physical therapist are also required before acceptance into a physical therapy program.

A physiotherapist is responsible for implementing treatment protocols. Because of this, to become a physiotherapist, extensive knowledge of the body and how it works is essential. Understanding the effects of injuries, diseases and illnesses is also important to minimize pain symptoms and maximize functional capabilities. Expertise is required regarding specialized physical therapy equipment, exercise treatment protocols, general mobility skills, activities of daily living and specialized modalities such as heat/ice applications, ultrasound and electric stimulation for pain relief, among other things. Physiotherapists are also responsible for knowing and recognizing warning signs that may impede progress or threaten client health.

In order to work as a physiotherapist, or physical therapist, state licensure must be obtained and maintained. Fees for state licensure testing and acquisition vary from state to state. To continue practicing as a physiotherapist, the PT must follow the continuing education requirements of the state in which they are employed or risk forfeiture of the right to practice physical therapy. Licenses are typically renewed every two years.