According to the American Physical Therapy Association APTA Background Sheet, there were no more than 173,000 physical therapists practicing in the U.S. in 2008, treating nearly one million people each day.

Although many physical therapists practice in hospitals, many practice in private physical therapy offices like THE pt GROUP. They also practice in community health centers, industrial health centers, sports facilities, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, home health agencies, schools or pediatric centers; work in research institutions; or teach in colleges and universities.

The minimum education requirement is a four-year college degree in physical therapy from an accredited education program. However, an increasing number of physical therapists choose to obtain a master's degree in physical therapy. Currently, 180 colleges and universities nationwide offer professional education programs in physical therapy.

After graduation, candidates must pass a state-administered national exam. Other requirements for physical therapy practice vary from state-to-state according to physical therapy practice acts or state regulations governing physical therapy. Information may be obtained by contacting your state licensure board.

American Physical Therapy Association

National Association for Healthcare Quality

Pennsylvania Physical Therapy Association