Military Physical Therapists

Military Career

General Information

Description

Physical therapists examine patients and develop a plan using treatment techniques to promote the ability to move, reduce pain, restore function, and prevent disability. They provide therapeutic exercises and manual therapy techniques, such as joint and soft tissue mobilization, or treatments such as ultrasound, taping, or electrical stimulation. Additionally, they teach patients how to prevent or manage their conditions so they will achieve long-term health benefits.

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Work Environment

Physical therapists work in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, and other medical facilities.

Workplace at a Glance

What you can expect to experience while on the job

  • Responsibility
  • Exposure to job hazards
  • Physical activity
  • Decision making
  • Repetitiveness
  • Level of competition
  • Time pressure
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Military Outlook

Service Branches

Jobs in this career field may be available in other service branches. Call or email a particular branch for more info.

Military Status

  • Officer
    • Managerial/professional
    • College degree required

Military Workforce

Physical Therapists in the Military

682

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Salary

Average Salary

$84,808

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Education

Most Common Education Levels

People in this career achieve this level of education.

  • Doctoral degree 47%
  • Master's degree 38%
  • Bachelor's degree 8%
  • Associate's degree 6%
  • High school 0%
  • Some college 0%
  • Post baccalaureate 0%
  • Less than high school 0%
  • Post-doctoral training 0%
  • Post-master's certificate 0%
  • First professional degree 0%
  • Post-secondary certificate 0%

Military training

Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Job training for physical therapists primarily consists of on-the-job learning in various training environments. Physical therapists often have the opportunity to teach, research, and learn at various health education programs. Like other officers working in healthcare, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, orientation to military structure, healthcare and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development.

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Knowledge

  • Customer and Personal Service
  • Therapy and Counseling
  • Psychology
  • Education and Training
  • Medicine and Dentistry

Skills at a Glance

Skills helpful in this career

  • Verbal skills
  • Critical thinking & problem solving
  • Equipment operation & maintenance
  • Math & science skills
  • Technology design & control
  • Leadership
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