Guide to Physical Therapy

Look into attending physical therapy schools

If you've always had the desire to help people heal after an injury, getting a degree in physical therapy education is your first step.

I recommend: The Physical Therapy Web Space provides a list of physical therapy schools around the world that offer physical therapy education. For local physical therapy schools, enter your desired ZIP code at the Health Care School Guide or at CollegeSurfing.com.

Obtain a license to practice physical therapy

Physical therapists must be licensed by the state in order to practice physical therapy.

I recommend: For a list of state licensing authorities, visit the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.

Purchase reliable physical therapy equipment

Rehabilitating patients involves a wide array of physical therapy equipment, such as exercise equipment (treadmills, stationary bikes), treatment furniture (treatment tables, traction, adjustment tables) and medical devices (muscle stimulators, ultrasound devices).

I recommend: Sammons Preston has a wide selection of rehab equipment and supplies, including exercise equipment and treatment furniture. For treatment tables, traction and rehab equipment, check out the offerings at The Physical Therapy Warehouse. Amrex-Zetron specializes in electrotherapy equipment. For hydrotherapy and whirlpool equipment, visit Thera-Plus Doctors Supply.

Invest in extra physical therapy supplies

Among the many physical therapy supplies any practice requires are stability balls, exercise bands, hot and cold therapy, gels, lotions and support pillows.

I recommend: Thera-Plus Doctors Supply sells a host of physical therapy supplies, like leg and knee pillows and pain-relieving gels and lotions. Rehabilitation and physical therapy supplies, such as stability balls, resistance tubing and resistance bands are available from Power Systems. 

Invest in physical therapy software

Physical therapy software can help keep your practice running smoothly by automating scheduling, billing and medical records maintenance.

I recommend: SpectraSoft's Appointments PRO is a physical therapy software program that automates scheduling, helping you check in patients and change appointments. Download a free trial. You can also request a demo of TherAssist, physical therapy software that handles scheduling, documentation and billing management. MediGraph Billing Navigator — software designed specifically for physical therapy — offers fully integrated billing, scheduling and documentation.