possible to be physical therapist with physical limitations

[iwtqp]

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Hi everyone,
I am considering a career in physical therapy but was recently diagnosed with a medical condition that may leave me with some physical limitations in my spine. Repeated lifting of heavy objects may prove increasingly difficult, especially as I get older. I have heard that there are some specialties in PT that may be less physically demanding, but my sense is that overall, most careers in PT can be difficult if there are health concerns/limitations involved. Any advice on whether I should reconsider my career choice, given my physical condition?

 

[hawk777]

I know a PT who has multiple sclerosis. She knows that things are going to get harder over time, but she seems very passionate about pursuing her dream. I think you should search yourself and find out what motivates you and drives you deeply. Many physical limitations can be overcome by determination and the right approach and mindset. If you really want it, you should go for it. We only get one chance at this life, and nobody makes it out alive. So make the best of what you've got 🙂 Good luck.

 

[JustinLeeDPT]

If you're passionate about Physical Therapy, do it! Don't let anything stop you. PT has so many subsectors that you can definitely find a niche in the market that you will enjoy and be proud of.

 

[deleted480308]

If you love therapy, go occupational therapy. Physical therapy does require a lot of lifting and you will face hiring difficulty if you can't fulfill all aspect of the job. It's an expensive degree to not be able to work for a lifetime

 

[jesspt]

Hi everyone,
I am considering a career in physical therapy but was recently diagnosed with a medical condition that may leave me with some physical limitations in my spine. Repeated lifting of heavy objects may prove increasingly difficult, especially as I get older. I have heard that there are some specialties in PT that may be less physically demanding, but my sense is that overall, most careers in PT can be difficult if there are health concerns/limitations involved. Any advice on whether I should reconsider my career choice, given my physical condition?

Fist of all, you don't have to indicate if you don't want to, but what medical condition? Alot of practitioners place a great deal of importance of often incidental imaging findings, meaning that if your talking primarily about DJD/arthritis it is probably totally manageable no matter what PT setting you would want to work in.

And, I work in outpatient orthopaedics. I lift nothing heavier than my laptop for about 99% of my day.