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Physiotherapists work with people of all ages, including babies and small children to promote movement and physical activity. Taking account of the whole person, they treat a wide range of physical conditions such as those affecting the limbs or neck and back, problems arising from poor circulation, or breathing difficulties and problems resulting from injury. Physiotherapists treat and work with people in a wide range of settings including hospitals, health centres, industry, private practice and sports clubs and can treat patients who may not have been seen first by a doctor. The physiotherapist works with people to identify their problem in relation to their illness or injury and together they decide on the best course of action to help solve the problem. This may involve for example, exercises, electrotherapy treatment, or manipulation techniques, or a combination of activities and advice in how to manage the problem at home. Physiotherapists have a large role in helping people manage problems resulting from illness or injury, but also have a large part to play in advice and prevention of injury, as well as health promotion activities to help prevent the onset of illness, such as exercise classes for people with osteoporosis, or people with weight problems.
Training and Career InformationEntry requirementsFive GCSEs, or equivalent, including at least two sciences and a minimum of three A levels, or equivalent. The route to becoming a physiotherapist is through successful completion of an approved first or higher degree programme in physiotherapy. There are a variety of approved qualifying routes in the UK ranging from 3 and 4 year full-time courses, 4 year part-time and/or in-service course to a 2 year accelerated course (for those with a relevant first degree). For further, more detailed information about a career in physiotherapy, get in touch with The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, contact details given below. The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy Further informationNHS careers on 0845 60 60 655
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