November 24, 2008

• Physical therapy in growth mode

• Aging America fuels demand

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - National observers from PARADE magazine to IBISWorld say physical therapy will remain a hot job even as the economy takes a downturn. The aging population of America and new venues for PT are driving the demand, say experts.

"As the baby boomers in America age, they will experience more movement related problems, and the need for physical therapy will become even more important to that population," said David Morris, Ph.D., P.T., associate professor of physical therapy in the UAB (University of Alabama at Birmingham) School of Health Professions.

Morris, who is president of the Alabama Chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association, also cites newly emerging practice opportunities for physical therapists.

"Physical therapists are showing up in new and different work environments, from fitness clubs to hospital emergency departments," Morris said. "We're seeing an increased emphasis on prevention....getting physical therapists involved early in the process.  It's a concept that is saving time, money and leading to better outcomes."

Physical therapists are health care professionals who diagnose and treat individuals who have medical problems or other health-related conditions that limit their abilities to move and perform functional activities in their daily lives.  PTs provide care for people in a variety of settings, including hospitals, private practices, outpatient clinics, home health agencies, schools, sports and fitness facilities, work settings and nursing homes.

The UAB Department of Physical Therapy, a fully accredited program since 1967, offers an entry level Doctor of Physical Therapy and a post-professional Doctor of Science in Physical Therapy.

UAB Department of Physical Therapy
http://www.uab.edu/shp/pt

American Physical Therapy Association
www.apta.org

Alabama Chapter, APTA
www.ptalabama.org