Physiotherapy- the path ahead

By Priya Babel and Mika Parekh

Manya Gulati’s journey to majoring in Physiotherapy

I enjoy Biology, but I didn’t know my options besides medicine, the most popular choice amongst my peers. Uni Crest encouraged me to explore other majors related to Health Science, including Physiotherapy. This exploration journey involved shadowing, speaking to Physiotherapists, reading books written on Physiotherapy and its vital role in treating a patient. Uni Crest also arranged meetings with faculty from a university. This career exploration journey solidified my understanding of the field and the career progression of being a Physiotherapist. Therapists also help to reduce or eliminate pain, improve mobility and balance, manage age related issues including heart and lung disease, diabetes, vascular conditions, and women’s health.

FAQ on a college major in Physiotherapy

What is Physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy is a discipline focused on helping people maintain and improve their mobility and function. Therapists use exercise, heat, cold, massage, manipulation, hydrotherapy, electrotherapy, ultraviolet and infra-red light, and ultrasound to treat patients to overcome various conditions and diseases that can affect their movement. Physiotherapists also help patients reach their potential by assessing their physical, psychological, and social well-being.

What are the high school academic requirements to study the discipline of Physiotherapy?

For a major in Physiotherapy, students require HL Biology or A-Level Biology or AP Biology or similar choice in other curriculum to demonstrate interest and understanding. Extracurricular activities such as shadowing a physiotherapist are recommended to gain insight into the field.

There are also various ways to get an understanding of the field. Explore through reading books on Physiotherapy, taking online courses, or volunteering at a private clinic.

What modules do you cover in the study of Physiotherapy at college?

Depending on your study destination, the professional programs to qualify as physiotherapists are 3 to 5 years.

Physiotherapy study includes cellular histology, exercise physiology, pharmacology, psychology, clinical reasoning, and neuroscientific theory. It also focuses on sports rehabilitation and includes postgraduate programs concentrating on Clinical Exercise and Rehabilitation Science.

Is Professional accreditation essential?

UK- BSc degrees are typically three years full-time (or four-year full-time in Scotland) of study, including a combination of lectures and practical learning and 1000 hours of placements at various physiotherapy settings. You must register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) to practice as a physiotherapist or physical therapist in the UK.

Australia- BSc degree is for three to four years full time. To work as a physiotherapist in Australia, you need to register with the Physiotherapy Board of Australia.

What are the specializations within Physiotherapy?

Aquatic Physiotherapist, Cardiothoracic Physiotherapist, Continence and Women’s Health Physiotherapist, Gerontological Physiotherapist, Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist, Neurological Physiotherapist, Occupational Health Physiotherapist, Pediatric Physiotherapist, Sports Physiotherapist.

What is the career outlook for physiotherapists?

The Charter Society of Physiotherapy in the UK predicts 6,700 extra physiotherapists will be needed by 2025 and 9,100 by 2030 because of rising demand. Physiotherapists earn £25000 per annum at the start and go up to £75000+ per annum in the UK. The path allows therapists to work in private practice or a combination of private practice while being attached to NHS Hospital. The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy also emphasized the important role of physiotherapist in patient care, especially with the large aging demographics in the UK. Physiotherapy is also in high demand in many other countries.