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What does it take for someone to get into physical therapy or a sports medicine doctor?

#physicaltherapist #sports #physical-therapy

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James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Adriana,

Embarking on a Career in Physical Therapy or Sports Medicine

If you're considering a career as a physical therapist or a sports medicine doctor, it's essential to understand the specific educational journey and requirements involved. Below is a detailed roadmap to guide you through the process:

1. Academic Preparation:

Physical Therapist: The path to becoming a physical therapist typically involves earning a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from a recognized program. This journey begins with a bachelor’s degree, followed by a doctoral program that delves into subjects like anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and rehabilitation methods.
Sports Medicine Doctor: To become a sports medicine doctor, you'll need to complete a bachelor’s degree and then attend medical school to obtain a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree. After medical school, you'll need to complete a residency program in a relevant field such as family medicine, internal medicine, emergency medicine, or physical medicine and rehabilitation. A fellowship in sports medicine can provide specialized training in this area.

2. Licensure and Certification:

Physical Therapist: After earning a DPT degree, you'll need to secure a state license to practice as a physical therapist. This typically involves passing the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) and fulfilling any other state-specific requirements.
Sports Medicine Doctor: As a sports medicine doctor, you'll need a medical license to practice. You might also consider obtaining board certification in sports medicine from reputable organizations like the American Board of Family Medicine or the American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians.

3. Practical Experience:

Physical Therapist: Most physical therapy programs require students to complete clinical internships or rotations, providing valuable hands-on experience with patients under the guidance of licensed physical therapists.
Sports Medicine Doctor: You can gain experience as a sports medicine doctor through your residency and fellowship training, working directly with athletes and patients with sports-related injuries.

4. Lifelong Learning: Both physical therapists and sports medicine doctors must engage in continuing education to keep their licenses active and stay updated with the latest developments in their fields.

In summary, a career in physical therapy or sports medicine demands commitment, comprehensive education, licensure, certification, real-world experience, and continuous professional growth.

Top 3 Credible References:

American Physical Therapy Association (APTA): The APTA is a prominent organization representing physical therapists in the U.S. Their website offers crucial information on educational prerequisites, licensing processes, and career resources for budding physical therapists.

American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP): The AAFP provides insights into the educational journey and training necessary for physicians specializing in family medicine and related fields, including sports medicine. Their resources can greatly assist those interested in becoming sports medicine doctors.

American Medical Society for Sports Medicine (AMSSM): The AMSSM is a leading organization committed to advancing sports medicine through education and research. Their website provides details on fellowship programs and certification options for prospective sports medicine physicians.

May God bless you!
James Constantine Frangos.
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Andrew’s Answer

For Physical Therapy there is a Kinesiology Degree and Program where as sports medicine would be medical school

Andrew recommends the following next steps:

Evaluate if you want to go to medical school or not
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Ian (Carl)’s Answer

I have friends that have gone into this field, and from an education view, you will need to obtain a graduate degree and obtain a license to become a physical therapy; however, you should determine if this is a career that you could be passionate about. Reach out to local physical therapy clinics and ask to shadow a physical therapist to partially experience the day to day activities of one.

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