What skills do I need to be a Physiotherapist?
The core skills used by physiotherapists include manual therapy, therapeutic exercise and the application of electro-physical modalities. Physiotherapists also have an appreciation of psychological, cultural and social factors which influence their clients.Physiotherapists work in various areas and need a combination of skills in order to become fully qualified. The areas they work in are: outpatients, intensive care, womens health, care of the elderly, stroke patients, orthopaedics, mental illness, learning difficulties, occupational health, the terminally ill and paediatrics.
Many physiotherapists work within hospitals. Here they are needed in virtually every department, from general out-patients to intensive care, where round-the-clock chest physiotherapy can be vital to keep unconscious patients breathing.
Hospitals often have physiotherapy gyms, hydrotherapy and high-tech equipment so that specialist therapy can be carried out.
Today"s physiotherapist is just as likely to work in the local community as within a hospital. There is also a need for physiotherapists in many other places such as schools, the private sector, education and leisure and sport.
Those wanting to become a physiotherapist need five
GCSEs (or equivalent), and usually three Aò€™ levels including at least one science. Alternatives to A levels are also considered, such as an approved access course, VCE and Scottish qualifications.
Training programmes are also available and consist of a recognised three or four year University-based course leading to a BSc in physiotherapy. You would then be eligible for registration, which is essential to getting physiotherapy jobs for the NHS.