What is physical therapy?

Physical therapy is a medical practice that helps those with injuries, diseases, and other physical limitations move and function better, as well as manage pain, through various treatments. The overall goal of physical therapy is to improve the life of the patient. Reaching that goal may involve the use of exercise, manipulation, manual therapy, electrophysical modalities, devices, and medication. The origins of physical therapy date back to the time of the famous Greek physician Hippocrates , who used hydrotherapy to help people with skin, joint, and muscle problems.

What kind of people are best suited for roles in physical therapy?

Anyone who is interested in a career in physical therapy and related practices should be interested in helping others better themselves. You should be able to maintain a positive attitude, even through trying circumstances, and you should be an excellent communicator. It's also important to be a keen observer and pay close attention to detail. You'll need to be physically strong as well, since the job sometimes requires you to lift and hold patients who can't stand on their own.

Why learn physical therapy?

Learning about physical therapy can lead to an exciting career as a physical therapist. Physical therapists who enter this profession can help patients in private offices, hospitals, hospice facilities, nursing homes, home health care, schools, and rehab clinics. They may also open their own practices. Even if you don't want to pursue a career in the field, learning about physical therapy can help you better understand your own body. You'll discover new ways to stay physically healthy.

What are some typical careers that use physical therapy?

Most people who study physical therapy become physical therapists. However, there are several other options in this area. You may go on to become an athletic trainer for sports teams or a chiropractor with your own practice. You can become a personal trainer, exercise instructor, or exercise physiologist. Some people who study physical therapy go on to explore other therapeutic careers, such as speech, recreational, or occupational therapy. You can use your education as the basis for a career as a physician's assistant, nurse practitioner, or audiologist too.

What are the benefits of taking an online Physical Therapy course?

Online Physical Therapy courses offer a convenient and flexible way to enhance your knowledge or learn new Physical Therapy skills. Choose from a wide range of Physical Therapy courses offered by top universities and industry leaders tailored to various skill levels.

Top Physical Therapy Courses - Learn Physical Therapy Online

Explore the Physical Therapy Course Catalog

Status: Free Trial
Dartmouth College
The Engineering of Structures Around Us
Skills you'll gain: Structural Analysis, Structural Engineering, Building Design, Civil Engineering, Vibrations, Architectural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Construction, SketchUp (3D Modeling Software), Mechanics, Engineering Analysis, Engineering Calculations, Mathematical Modeling, Prototyping, Engineering Design Process, 3D Modeling, Simulation and Simulation Software, Applied Mathematics
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
147 reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
University of Colorado Boulder
Control Systems Analysis: Modeling of Dynamic Systems
Skills you'll gain: Control Systems, Mathematical Modeling, Engineering Analysis, Differential Equations, Engineering Calculations, Systems Analysis, Electrical Systems, Mechanics, Applied Mathematics, Basic Electrical Systems
Build toward a degree
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
85 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Technical University of Denmark (DTU)
Organic Solar Cells - Theory and Practice
Skills you'll gain: Semiconductors, Energy and Utilities, Chemistry, Laboratory Experience, Manufacturing Processes, Failure Analysis, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Product Lifecycle Management, Environmental Science, Technical Standard
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
1.2K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Quantum Mechanics for Engineers
Skills you'll gain: Estimation, Linear Algebra, Physics, Mechanics, Engineering Calculations, Probability, Applied Mathematics, Advanced Mathematics, Mathematical Modeling, Engineering Analysis, Mathematical Theory & Analysis, Differential Equations, Physical Science
Build toward a degree
4.4
Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
98 reviews
Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months
Siemens
Introduction to Solid Edge
Skills you'll gain: Computer-Aided Design, SolidWorks (CAD), Drafting and Engineering Design, Design Software, Data Import/Export, Engineering Drawings, Assembly Drawing, Mechanical Drawings, Technical Drawing, 3D Modeling
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
71 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of California, Irvine
El arte de negociar
Skills you'll gain: Negotiation, Leadership, Communication, Relationship Building, Empowerment, Influencing, Assertiveness, Planning, Emotional Intelligence, Adaptability
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
492 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
University of New Mexico
Curanderismo: Traditional Healing of the Mind, Energy & Spirit
Skills you'll gain: Trauma Care, Music, Mental and Behavioral Health, Cultural Sensitivity, Positivity, Community Mental Health Services, Compassion, Mindfulness, Cultural Diversity
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
128 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Technical University of Denmark (DTU)
Photovoltaic Systems
Skills you'll gain: Power Electronics, Plant Operations and Management, Electric Power Systems, Energy and Utilities, Semiconductors, Environmental Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electronic Components, Physics, Engineering Calculations, Manufacturing Processes, Mathematical Modeling, Product Testing
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
154 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology(KAIST)
Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics 1
Skills you'll gain: Energy and Utilities, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Engineering, Process Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Environmental Issue, Physics, Physical Science, Process Analysis, Mathematical Modeling
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
57 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
École Polytechnique
Photovoltaic solar energy
Skills you'll gain: Data Storage Technologies, Electrical Power, Electrical Systems, Energy and Utilities, Environmental Science, Project Finance, Power Electronics, Semiconductors, Economics, Basic Electrical Systems, Environment and Resource Management, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry
4.2
Rating, 4.2 out of 5 stars
474 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
University of California San Diego
Internet of Things: How did we get here?
Skills you'll gain: Telecommunications, Internet Of Things, Wireless Networks, Emerging Technologies, Mobile Development, Digital Communications, General Networking, Network Architecture, Network Protocols, Network Infrastructure
3.9
Rating, 3.9 out of 5 stars
1.1K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
ISC2
Access Control Concepts
Skills you'll gain: Security Controls, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), Authorization (Computing), Cyber Security Policies, Identity and Access Management, Data Access, Security Awareness, Authentications
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
142 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months