Median pay: $75,900
Top pay: $97,800
10-year job growth: 30%
Total jobs: 190,000
The job:
When a patient first arrives, you're the one to perform the initial exam and evaluate their medical records in order to determine a diagnosis. You'll then administer exercises, massage or traction to help relieve pain and increase the patient's strength. Along the way, you'll record the patient's prognosis, treatment and progress. You'll discharge the patient from physical therapy when projected outcomes have been attained and provide for follow-up care or referrals.
Quality of life ratings:
Personal satisfaction |
Benefit to society |
Low stress |
Flexibility |
A |
A |
C |
B |
By Heather Muse and Donna Rosato
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