Physical Therapist Working Conditions

Physical therapists held about 210,900 jobs in 2014. The industries that employed the most physical therapists were as follows:

Offices of physical, occupational and speech therapists, and audiologists: 34%

Hospitals; state, local, and private: 27%

Home healthcare services: 12%

Nursing and residential care facilities: 7%

Offices of physicians: 5%

Physical therapists spend much of their time on their feet, working with patients. Because they must often lift and move patients, they are vulnerable to back injuries. Therapists can limit these risks by using proper body mechanics and lifting techniques when assisting patients.

Most physical therapists work full time. About 1 in 5 worked part time in 2014. Although most therapists work during normal business hours, some may work evenings or weekends.

Source: U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2016-17 Edition

Find additional occupational information below:

Physical Therapist Duties
Physical Therapist Work Conditions
Physical Therapist Employment
Physical Therapist Training
Physical Therapist Job Outlook
Physical Therapist Earnings