Exploring the Academic Curriculum- What Classes Do Physical Therapists Study-
What Classes Do Physical Therapists Take?
Physical therapy is a rewarding career that focuses on helping individuals recover from injuries, manage chronic pain, and improve their overall physical function. To become a licensed physical therapist, aspiring professionals must complete a rigorous academic program. This article will explore the types of classes that physical therapists typically take during their education.
Undergraduate Education
The journey to becoming a physical therapist begins with an undergraduate degree. Most physical therapists earn a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in a related field, such as kinesiology, exercise science, or biology. During this stage of their education, students take a variety of foundational courses, including:
– Anatomy and Physiology: These courses provide a comprehensive understanding of the human body’s structure and function, which is crucial for a physical therapist’s practice.
– Biology: A strong foundation in biology is essential for understanding the complex processes that occur within the human body.
– Chemistry: Knowledge of chemistry is vital for understanding the chemical reactions that occur in the body and how they affect health and disease.
– Physics: Understanding the principles of physics helps physical therapists analyze movement and understand the forces acting on the body.
– Mathematics: Basic math skills are necessary for analyzing data and calculating dosages, while more advanced math skills may be required for research or advanced clinical practice.
Graduate Education
After completing an undergraduate degree, aspiring physical therapists must pursue a graduate degree in physical therapy. This typically involves a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, which can take anywhere from 3 to 4 years to complete. During this time, students take a variety of advanced courses, including:
– Pathophysiology: This course focuses on the study of disease processes and the changes that occur in the body as a result of disease.
– Therapeutic Exercise: Students learn various exercise techniques and how to apply them to treat different conditions.
– Orthopedic Assessment: This course covers the assessment and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions, such as fractures, sprains, and arthritis.
– Neurology: Students learn about the nervous system and how to assess and treat neurological conditions, such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis.
– Electives: Students can choose elective courses to specialize in a particular area of physical therapy, such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or sports medicine.
Additional Courses and Clinical Experience
In addition to the core courses mentioned above, physical therapy students also take part in clinical rotations. These rotations provide hands-on experience and allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. During these rotations, students may encounter a variety of conditions and treatment techniques, such as:
– Acute Care: Treating patients with acute injuries or illnesses, such as those admitted to a hospital or emergency room.
– Outpatient Care: Treating patients with chronic conditions or those who have been discharged from the hospital but still require physical therapy.
– Geriatrics: Treating older adults with age-related conditions, such as arthritis, stroke, or falls.
– Pediatrics: Treating children with developmental, neuromuscular, or musculoskeletal conditions.
Conclusion
Physical therapists undergo a comprehensive education, encompassing a wide range of courses that cover the human body, disease processes, and treatment techniques. From undergraduate to graduate studies, and through clinical rotations, aspiring physical therapists gain the knowledge and skills necessary to help patients improve their quality of life. By understanding the classes that physical therapists take, one can better appreciate the dedication and expertise required to excel in this rewarding field.
