Ben Said:

What's the best way to break into physical therapy?

We Answered:

I too, am from the Chicago area and have been a PT for 7 years. Once I became intersted in PT, I looked into the schools I was potentially interested it. You can visit a list of accedited schools at www.apta.org. You will beable to get a link to that schools program so you may see what their specific requirements are. For example, NIU requires a 3.0/4.0 average in all prerequisite classes. The prerequisite classes include (at the college level) a year of chem and physics, a year and a half of Bio, a year and a half of psych, stats, trig and completion of your general education requirements. You can apply to the program after your junior year for selective entry (there are 36 slots available each year). All programs in the US are now either MS or DPT level except for PTA programs which are still an associate's level degree.

To start, I would also spend some time observing in a clinic as all schools require at least some time observing in the clinic. This exposes you to the profession and helps determine if you are, in fact, interested in becoming a PT.

Just know that there are different structures and requirements for each program and that you should visit the website of the inidividual schools for more detail.

Good luck.

Samantha Said:

does loyola university in chicago offer majors in physical therapy?

We Answered:

No

Here is the list of schools that offer PT

http://www.apta.org/AM/Template.cfm?sect…

Gail Said:

how do I find the best physical therapy program in Chicago for sciatica?

We Answered:

Call clinics in the area and ask questions:

1. Is there a physical therapist who has certifications as either an OCS (Orthopedic Clinical Specialist) or in Manual Therapy? These types of PTs have taken specialize courses and examinations to achieve these certifications.

2. How many patients does the physical therapist see an hour? If the answer is more than 2, do not select this clinic. You will not get the individualized attention you need if they double-book patients.

3. Is there one therapist who specializes in back pain and ask if you will see the same therapist every time? This will help to ensure continuity of care.

Also, ask your friends, family, and most importantly, your physician who they recommend. The physician has years of experience working with the PTs and he/she should know a good, competent PT to refer you to.

Kimberly Said:

Physical Therapy Schools in Chicago?

We Answered:

UIC and Northwestern are the only ones in Chicago city limits, but Rosland Franklin and Goveners State are very commutable (North versus south side respectively) if you live in Chicago. Venturing outside the city, Midwestern is in Downer's Grove and NIU is in DeKalb...other than that, you'd have to go down state.

Toni Said:

massage/physical therapy school in Chicago?

We Answered:

Physical Therapy is different than massage therapy and requires extensive training and a college education.

Massage is usually only a year program at a local massage school. I recommend a 2 year massage school if you are right out of high school. The cost varies by school so you need to ask each school.

Most massage therapists start their own business. Jobs for the most part are really low paying so it is better to work for yourself but you need to know about starting and running a business but anyone can learn how.