What does a physiotherapist do?
A physiotherapist is an expert in the design of the human body and how it moves. Physiotherapy is used to treat patients of all ages and from all walks of life to assist them with long-term health conditions or shorter-term injuries due to accidents or sports mishaps. A physiotherapist assesses and diagnoses patients before planning and managing their care and liaising with other professionals as part of a multidisciplinary team. Treatment plans are customised to suit the requirements of each patient.
Physiotherapists are found in a wide range of settings, from private and public hospitals, private practices and aged care facilities to sports clubs and large companies. The physiotherapist role can be very versatile and is needed in various scenarios wherever physical movement is involved.
Physiotherapist skills and qualifications
A successful physiotherapist combines expert knowledge of human anatomy and movement with strong communication and patient care skills. Key responsibilities include assessing and diagnosing physical conditions, developing and implementing tailored treatment plans, and monitoring patient progress to achieve optimal recovery outcomes.
Physiotherapists also provide education on injury prevention, collaborate with other healthcare professionals, and ensure compliance with professional and ethical standards.
A good physiotherapist needs to have certain skills and aptitudes. For example, they have to:
- have expert knowledge in human anatomy and physiology, exercise physiology, neuroscience and psychology
- know how to apply manual therapy techniques and other techniques such as ultrasound or acupuncture
- be able to work well as part of a multidisciplinary team
- have excellent communication skills and the ability to write professional reports
- have great people skills and be empathetic to patients.
Physiotherapist experience requirements
After completing their studies, new physiotherapists also have to complete supervised practice in a clinical setting and are required to register with the National Physiotherapy Board of Australia. In addition, physiotherapists who join the Australian Physiotherapy Association need to participate in continuing professional development.
Physiotherapist education and training requirements
To practice in Australia, a physiotherapist needs to complete certain educational and other formal requirements.
They need to have completed an accredited university degree, such as a Bachelor of Physiotherapy and be registered with the Physiotherapy Board of Australia as well as the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.
Optionally, psychologists can also join the Australian Physiotherapy Association, the main professional body representing physiotherapists in Australia, and attend ongoing professional development courses as required to stay up to date in their field.
Physiotherapist salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a physiotherapist is $93,581 per year. Physiotherapist salaries may vary depending on the setting (e.g. aged care facility or large private hospital) and the location. Rural and more remote areas can offer higher-paid physiotherapist jobs than major cities to attract more suitable candidates.
Job description samples for similar positions
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