A physical therapist is a healthcare professional who helps patients improve movement, reduce pain, and restore physical function following injury, illness, or surgery. Physical therapists evaluate patients’ physical abilities and develop treatment plans designed to improve mobility, strength, and overall function.

What does a physical therapist do? 

Physical therapists assess patient movement and develop individualized treatment plans that support recovery and long-term physical health. 

Typical responsibilities include: 

• Evaluating patients’ mobility, strength, and physical function 
• Developing individualized treatment plans to improve movement and reduce pain  
• Guiding patients through therapeutic exercises and rehabilitation techniques 
• Using hands-on therapy and specialized equipment to support recovery 
• Monitoring patient progress and adjusting treatment plans as needed 
• Educating patients on injury prevention and long-term mobility strategies 
• Documenting treatment outcomes and patient progress
• Collaborating with physicians and other healthcare professionals 

A day-in-the-life of a physical therapist 

A typical day may include evaluating new patients, guiding rehabilitation sessions and adjusting treatment plans based on patient progress. Physical therapists often work one-on-one with patients, helping them regain strength, mobility, and independence following injury or illness. 

What education is required to become a physical therapist? 

Physical therapists complete advanced education and clinical training before entering the profession. 

Because educational requirements can vary depending on the institution and licensing requirements, there are multiple pathways into the profession. However, a typical pathway includes: 

1. Complete a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as exercise science, biology, or health sciences.
2. Graduate from a physical therapy doctoral program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).
3. Graduates must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) to become licensed physical therapists.

How long does it take to become a physical therapist? 

The time required depends on the educational pathway a student chooses. 

Typical timeline: 

• Undergraduate education: About 4 years
• Doctor of Physical Therapy program: About 3 years
• Total typical time: Approximately 7 years 

What skills are important for a physical therapist? 

Physical therapists need a combination of clinical knowledge, analytical thinking, and interpersonal skills to support patient recovery. 

Technical skills 

• Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics 
• Rehabilitation and therapeutic exercise techniques  
• Patient mobility assessment 
• Treatment planning and progress evaluation 
• Use of rehabilitation equipment and therapy techniques 

Interpersonal skills 

• Patient communication and education 
• Compassion and patient-centered care 
• Motivation and encouragement for patients during recovery 
• Critical thinking and clinical decision-making 
• Ability to collaborate with healthcare teams (nursing, social workers, physicians, etc.) 

Where do physical therapists work? 

Physical therapists work in a variety of healthcare environments, including: 

• Hospitals 
• Outpatient rehabilitation clinics 
• Private physical therapy practices 
• Long-term care facilities 
• Home healthcare settings 
• Sports medicine clinics 
• Rehabilitation centers 
• Academic medical centers 

Physical therapist programs at Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences offers a Doctor of Physical Therapy Program that prepares students for careers in physical therapy through academic coursework and clinical training. 

• Program name: Doctor of Physical Therapy Program 
• Location: Rochester, Minnesota
• Length: 33 months
• Accreditation: Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
• Clinical exposure: Students participate in extensive clinical education experiences within Mayo Clinic and affiliated healthcare settings, working with diverse patient populations and rehabilitation specialties. 

Mayo Clinic also offers several internships and residencies related to physical therapy. 

• Physical or Occupational Therapy Internship (Florida)
• Physical Therapy Acute Care Residency (Arizona)
• Physical Therapy Geriatric Residency (Arizona)
• Physical Therapy Internship (Arizona)
• Physical Therapy Internship (Minnesota)
• Physical Therapy Neurologic Residency (Minnesota)
• Physical Therapy Orthopaedic Residency (Florida)
• Physical Therapy Orthopaedic Residency (Minnesota)
• Physical Therapy Sports Residency (Minnesota)

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