Selecting the correct career is a crucial decision with far-reaching implications. It is a choice that will shape your future, underscoring the importance of making an informed decision.
Over the next few weeks, The African Reporter will engage with business people, professionals and other role players, focusing on a specific career every week.
By doing this, we give valuable guidance to our younger readers in navigating their career choices.
This week, we give a platform to the physiotherapist career.
Kamogelo Motsoagae has been a physiotherapist for six years and said his passion for sports and medicine led him to this career.
“Physiotherapy was the perfect career suited both passions. I love helping people regain their physical functionality and helping them believe in themselves again after an injury.
“Physiotherapy is a great profession with endless opportunities regarding what speciality to pursue,” he added.
What is physiotherapy?
This healthcare profession assesses, diagnoses and treats an array of physical conditions.
What is a physiotherapist, and what do they do?
Physiotherapists help treat pain and other physical conditions like stroke and osteoarthritis, among others. There are several specialties in the profession.
Where can I study to become a physiotherapist?
Accredited universities in SA that offer the degrees:
• University of Cape Town;
• University of the Free State;
• University of KwaZulu-Natal;
• Sefako Makgatho Health Science University;
• University of Stellenbosch;
• University of the Western Cape;
• University of the Witwatersrand.
How long does it take to become a physiotherapist?
The Bachelor programme takes four years of full-time study. Students are trained in physiotherapy in various areas, treating musculoskeletal, neurological and respiratory problems and sports injuries.
Which high school subjects do I need?
Maths, physical science and life sciences would be beneficial to a point.
What are a physiotherapist’s roles and responsibilities?
Physiotherapists have a range of duties and responsibilities. These can vary depending on their work setting and the needs of their patients. Some primary responsibilities include:
• assessment and diagnosis: Physiotherapists are responsible for assessing and diagnosing patients’ physical conditions and injuries through various tests and evaluations. They use this information to develop individualised treatment plans.
• treatment: Physiotherapists provide various treatments to help patients manage pain, restore function and improve mobility. These can include exercises, manual therapy, electrotherapy and other interventions.
• education and counselling: Physiotherapists teach patients how to manage their conditions, prevent further injury and promote overall health and wellness. They might provide counselling on lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise.
• monitoring and evaluation: Physiotherapists monitor patients’ progress throughout their treatment and modify their treatment plans as needed. They also evaluate the effectiveness of their interventions and adjust their approach accordingly.
• collaboration: Physiotherapists often work as part of a healthcare team and collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as doctors and occupational therapists, to ensure patients receive comprehensive care.
• research and development: Physiotherapists might be involved in research and development aimed at improving the effectiveness of their interventions and advancing physiotherapy.
Are there different types of physiotherapists?
Yes. Various physiotherapists specialise in different areas of practice, such as:
• cardiovascular and respiratory physiotherapists: They specialise in assessing and treating patients with cardiovascular and respiratory conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and heart failure.
• geriatric physiotherapists: They work with older adults to improve their mobility, balance and overall function and to manage conditions like osteoporosis, arthritis and dementia.
• musculoskeletal physiotherapists: They specialise in assessing, diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the muscles, joints and bones, such as arthritis, back pain and sports injuries.
• neurological physiotherapists: They work with patients with neurological conditions, such as stroke, spinal cord injuries and multiple sclerosis, to improve their movement and function.
• paediatric physiotherapists: They work with infants, children and adolescents who have developmental delays, cerebral palsy and sports injuries.
• women’s health physiotherapists: They specialise in assessing, diagnosing and treating conditions affecting women’s health, such as pregnancy-related back pain, incontinence and pelvic pain.
• sports physiotherapists: They work in sports teams and treat injured players.
• medical physiotherapists: They work in hospitals and treat conditions like pneumonia or post-surgery patients.
What are the pros and cons of the job?
Advantages: It is rewarding to rehabilitate someone who could not walk and see them return to their functional self.
Disadvantages: It can be physically demanding.
What is your advice for someone wanting to become a physiotherapist?
Do your research and consider why you want to become a physio.
What skills do I need to be a good physiotherapist?
Good communication and problem-solving skills are vital. Patients don’t all present the same. You need to think on your feet in certain situations.
Where do physiotherapists work?
• Hospitals;
• Schools;
• Sports fields;
• Medical facilities;
• Clinics and communities.
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