• Evaluation & Diagnosis: Review medical histories, listen to patient concerns, and conduct tests to determine functional limitations.
• Treatment Planning: Develop personalized, evidence-based treatment plans to meet specific patient goals.
• Direct Care: Administer treatments including therapeutic exercises, stretching, manual therapy (massage/joint mobilization), and physical agents like ultrasound or electrical stimulation.
• Patient Education: Instruct patients and families on exercises for home use, safety techniques, and what to expect during recovery.
• Progress Monitoring: Evaluate patient progress, adjust care plans, and discharge patients when goals are met.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential patient records (electronic medical records) and billing.
• Supervision: Oversee physical therapy assistants (PTAs) and aides. 

• Education: A Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from an accredited program.
• License: State-issued licensure (passing the National Physical Therapy Examination).
• Skills: Strong interpersonal skills, physical stamina to move patients/equipment, and keen analytical skills for assessing movement.
• Environment: Clinics, hospitals, home health care, nursing homes, or sports/fitness facilities. 

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