Physiotherapists

Physiotherapists plan and apply massage, promote and encourage movement and exercise, use hydrotherapy, electro-therapy and other technological equipment in the treatment of a wide range of injuries, diseases and disabilities in order to assist rehabilitation by developing and restoring body systems.

Tasks

• Examines medical reports and assesses patient to determine the condition of muscles, nerves or joints in need of treatment
• Writes up patients’ case notes and reports, maintains their records and manages caseload
• Plans and undertakes therapy to improve circulation, restore joint mobility, strengthen muscles and reduce pain
• Explains treatment to and instructs patient in posture and other exercises and adapts treatment as necessary
• Offers advice and education on how to avoid injury and promote patient’s future health and well-being
• Supervises physiotherapy assistants
• Monitors patient’s progress and liaises with others concerned with the treatment and rehabilitation of patient, and refers patients requiring other specific medical attention.

Entry Requirements

Entry is most common with GCSEs/S grades and A levels/H grades followed by up to four years training on an approved degree scheme necessary for state registration as a physiotherapist. Some science and other graduates are eligible for accelerated two-year pre-registration MSc degree programmes in Physiotherapy or Rehabilitation Science. Candidates must pass a medical examination.