Physiotherapist
Physiotherapists assess and treat mobility problems in patients caused by illness, injury, ageing or disability.
Also known as: Sports physiotherapist
- Starter salary£32,000 a year
- Experienced£48,000 a year
- Typical hours35 to 40 a week
What you'll do
As a physiotherapist, you would:
- assess patients' joint and movement problems
- plan treatments, using exercises, massage and ultrasound
- advise patients on how to minimise the risk of injuries
- keep accurate records of treatment and progress
- work closely with other health professionals
Working environment
You could work in an NHS or private hospital, at a client's home, at an adult care home, at a GP practice or at a fitness centre.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- knowledge of medicine and how the body works
- sensitivity and understanding
- to enjoy working with other people
- customer service skills
- analytical thinking skills
- knowledge of psychology
- to be flexible and open to change
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
How to become a physiotherapist
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
University
You can do a physiotherapy degree course approved by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.
You can also do a postgraduate master's course if you already have a first degree in a related subject, like:
- biological science
- health science
- sports and exercise science
Once you are qualified and have clinical experience you could specialise in an area like sports injuries and rehabilitation.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including biology for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
Apprenticeship
You can apply to do a Physiotherapist Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship.
It usually takes 4 years to complete and includes a mix of learning on the job while studying at university.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, preferably including biology, for a degree apprenticeship
Work
You may be able to start as a physiotherapy assistant , for example in the NHS, and study part time for a degree or degree apprenticeship to qualify as a physiotherapist.
Volunteering
Volunteering in the NHS is a good way to get work experience in healthcare. This can be helpful when you apply for training or jobs.
You can also get advice on work experience from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.
Restrictions and requirements
You'll need to:
- pass enhanced background checks as you may work with children and vulnerable adults
Career path and progression
With experience, you could:
- become a senior physiotherapist or service manager in the NHS
- specialise in a specific area, like stroke care, sports physiotherapy or working with children
- move into research or training
- work for a professional sports club
- become self employed and set-up your own practice
There are also opportunities for physiotherapists in the armed forces, including the army and the Royal Air Force .
Career tips
If you're interested in sports physiotherapy, it will help if you can get some experience with an amateur sports team or club. This will show your commitment to the profession when it comes to applying for training and jobs.
You would also be expected to have an understanding of how the NHS values would impact your work, if applying for jobs in the NHS.
Professional and industry bodies
You can join the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy for professional development and to build up your contacts in the industry.
Registration
- you'll need to register with the Health and Care Professions Council
Guides for this industry
Related roles
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