Find UK courses - part time courses, undergraduate, postgraduate courses

What would you like to learn?

* mandatory
Advanced search Find a course provider

Physiotherapist

Interested in Physiotherapist? Click on the links below.

Physiotherapist

Physiotherapist Career Details

Physiotherapists treat patients with physical problems caused by accidents, illness and ageing, particularly those that affect muscles, bones, heart, circulation and lungs.

Physiotherapists use a range of treatments including: manipulation, massage, therapeutic exercise, electrotherapy, ultrasound, acupuncture and hydrotherapy.

The work can involve helping patients with spinal and joint problems, especially after an operation; assisting the rehabilitation of patients following accidents and sports injuries; working with children who are mentally or physically disabled; and possibly working with elderly patients with mobility problems.

Physiotherapists work in a team with other health care professionals. As well as treating patients, a physiotherapist must keep accurate records of patient treatment and progress.

Some physiotherapists specialise in sports therapy. For more details check the sports physiotherapist job profile.

Working Environment

Physiotherapists in the NHS generally work 37.5 hours a week.

Most physiotherapists working for the NHS are based in hospitals or in the community in health centres, clinics and GP surgeries. They also visit patients in their own homes. Some may work for the local authority and voluntary organisations or in the private sector in hospitals, clinics, hospices, nursing homes, fitness centres and sports clinics.

Some travel may be involved if working at several centres.

Physiotherapist Related Skills

To be a physiotherapist, you should:
  • have an interest and ability in health science
  • be concerned for the health and wellbeing of patients
  • have excellent communication skills
  • work well as part of a team
  • have good interpersonal skills
  • be patient, sensitive and tactful
  • have good organisational and administrative skills.

Physiotherapist Career Opportunities

Most physiotherapists work in the NHS. Other opportunities include working for local authorities or in the private sector in hospitals, hospices, nursing homes, fitness centres and sports clinics, or self-employed in private practice. There are also opportunities in large organisations to work in occupational health.

As an experienced physiotherapist promotion to senior positions is possible. There are also opportunities to specialise in one of many areas such as orthopaedics, sports therapy, occupational health or working with the elderly or children. Others work in research or teaching, or move into management.

Further Career Information

If you would like to know more about a career as an Physiotherapist related facts, statistics, articles and websites.

Career Steps

Not quite sure about a career as a Physiotherapist? Try our step-by-step career guide to reaching your chosen career.

Career Courses

Not quite qualified to be a Physiotherapist? Take a look at Training Physiotherapist courses, Postgraduate Physiotherapist courses, Undergraduate Physiotherapist courses, our course browses or use our search form and find courses which will help you on your chosen career path.