Find out everything you need to know about becoming a Physiotherapist.

Job Title - Physiotherapist

Description

A Physiotherapist assesses; treats and prevents disorders in human movement caused by injury and disease. They are often members of medical teams that treat sport injuries and ill people, and help disabled people to lead useful lives with as much independence and personal fulfilment as possible.

Physiotherapists treat all age groups - babies, children, adolescents and senior citizens. The emphasis is not only on the treatment of patients.

Physiotherapists may specialize in specific areas such as:
– manipulative therapy
– women's health
– aged care
– chest conditions
– occupational health and safety
– sports medicine
– babies and young children
– problems of the nervous system and spinal injuries
– administration, education or research

Physiotherapists may work as part of a health care team, independently in a private practice, within a school system or as industry consultants.

Working environments may vary from spacious, well-equipped gymnasia to hospital wards and intensive care units, or to crowded and noisy clinics. Actual settings depend on the type, location and resources of employers. Some physiotherapists visit and treat patients in their homes.

Typical Job Activities

Assesses and treats movement disorders
Uses a variety of techniques like massage, heat, light, electricity, etc.
Restores or minimises normal function
Reduces pain
Helps patients achieve the highest level of physical independence
Promotes health care
Keeps patients’ records
Consults and liaises with other healthcare professionals

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Related Occupations

Auxiliary Health Worker
Assistant Physiotherapist
Chiropractor
Biokineticist

Educational Requirements

National Senior Matric Certificate meeting degree requirements for a degree course
Degree: BSc (Physiotherapy) - UP, US, UKZN, UCT, UFS, UWC, UL, Wits. Duration of course is 4 years

Each institution will have its own minimum entry requirements

Compulsory Subjects: Mathematics and Physical Sciences
Recommended Subjects: Life Sciences

Registration as a physiotherapist with the Interim Medical and Dental Council of South Africa is compulsory before being able to practice

What natural skills and/or aptitudes do I need for this occupation?

Be able to get along well with others
Be patient, tactful and creative
Be mature and emotionally stable
Have the desire to help others
Have assured, calm and sympathetic manner
Be able to inspire confidence
Have manual dexterity and good body coordination
Have good health and physical stamina

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Employment Opportunities

High

Market Competitiveness

Moderate

Income Potential

Moderate

Self-Employment Options

High

International Employment Market

Low

Possible Employers

Government - national, provincial, local councils and related organisations like hospitals, Department of Health, rehabilitation centres for the physically handicapped or special schools and universities
Big private companies – mining companies
Medium or small companies – home for the aged or sport recreation clubs
Own small business: private practice
Self-employed: freelance

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Relevant Contact Details

Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA)
www.hpcsa.co.za

South African Society of Physiotherapy
www.physio.org.za

Career Progress and Path

Experience in specific field
Work performance

Possible Career Paths

Specialist career in the specific field
Own business

Employment Stability

Moderately stable

Reasons to consider this career

To be of service to people
To work with people
To apply my special skills