Misconceptions About the Role of a Physical Therapist

Physical therapists are licensed professionals who have obtained bachelor's or master's degrees, and who are specialists in treating movement disorders resulting from pain, injury, illness or other condition. They use a variety of methods to treat limitations of movement. Several misconceptions are common about the role of a physical therapist.

Massage Therapy

• Many people think massage therapy is the same thing as physical therapy, while massage actually is only one component of physical therapy.

Fitness Advising

• Another common misconception is that physical therapists work as physical fitness advisers or as fitness coaches.

Career Limitation Misconceptions

• Many people think physical therapists work only with athletes or people who have sports-related injuries.

Method Limitation Misconception

• Another misconception about the role of a physical therapist is that they only use exercise to treat movement disorders, when they also use manual therapy, modalities and other methods.

Expert Insight

• A survey of high school students published in "Physical Therapy Journal" in 1982 found that 24 percent thought physical therapists could prescribe medication.