Felix Said:

What are some of the laws in Europe or wherever you are on massage therapy.?

We Answered:

Physiotherapy is an extensive career, where you help to ease the pain and stiffness of limbs, or help to rehabilitate an accident or stroke victim. The potential for doing harm is great if you not properly trained. Every country in Europe would have it's own certification program, you would need to inquire abroad. Do all the research you can on-line, speak to physiotherapists and job shadow if possible.

As for Easterners, massage therapy has other connotations, thank you for clarifying.

Caroline Said:

What are some good colleges in the south?

We Answered:

*Guide
Pub = Public University
Pri = Private University
LAC = Liberal Arts College
MAS = Masters University (School that offers up to a Masters degree)


--Schools To Look At--


Kentucky
- Centre College (LAC)
- University of Kentucky (Pub)
- Berea College (LAC)
- Murray State University (MAS)

Tennessee
- Vanderbilt University (Pri)
- Sewanee -- University of the South (LAC)
- University of Tennessee (Pub)
- Rhodes College (LAC)
- Belmont University (MAS)

Virginia
- University of Virginia (Pub)
- College of William and Mary (Pub)
- Washington & Lee University (LAC)
- James Madison University (MAS)
- Virginia Tech (Pub)
- University of Richmond (LAC)

North Carolina
- Duke University (Pri)
- University of North Carolina (Pub)
- Davidson College (LAC)
- Wake Forest (Pri)
- NC State University (Pub)
- Elon University (MAS)

Maryland (might be a bit too far north for you)
- Johns Hopkins University (Pri)
- Georgetown University (Pri)
- University of Maryland (Pub)
- George Washington University (Pri)
- Howard University (Pri)
- Loyola College of Maryland (MAS)
- American University (Pri)

Georgia (might be too southern for your tastes)
- Emory University (Pri)
- Georgia Tech University (Pub)
- University of Georgia (Pub)
- Agnes Scott College (LAC)
- Mercer University (MAS)

Schools I've Seriously Looked At...
Vanderbilt
Georgetown
Emory
College of William and Mary
UNC
UVA

Steve Said:

science project over physical therapy, HELP!?

We Answered:

You can get a list of all accredited programs by going to the APTA website at: http://www.apta.org and go to the educational programs section. You can find information on programs as listed by state, with a link to a description of the program which should include tuition.

In the US, it now requires either a master's or doctorate level degree. Most programs are designed to be completed in a minimum of 6-7 years.

The bureau of labor and statistics lists the median salary around $66,000 (you can search at www.bls.gov ) but a survery in 2005 by APTA found that about 50% of PT were earning between 50-70,000 a year. Yet, another 25-30% earn more than that with a range up to $150,000.

The benefits include a career that is projected to grow much faster than average, job security and usually includes good benefits. It is a job that is challenging and interesting.

The drawbacks include having to follow guidelines which aren't always logical (primarily medicare regulations), and working occasional weekends, evenings and holidays.

Gladys Said:

How can I get a head start learning medicine?

We Answered:

When you are 17, go to a community college 2 nights a week for a semester and take an Emergency Medical Technician - Basic course. You have to be 18 to write the exam.

This will give you such a head start you won't believe why other people have not thought of this.

And besides, working on an ambulance crew is a lot better than most other college jobs. You can't believe the adrenaline rush from being in an ambulance going with lights and siren. My daughter tells me it is better than the best roller coaster in the world. And they pay you to do it, at least after you finish your 200 hour internship.


My daughter, the economist, did this and is now in grad school and she works shifts at a local ER doing triage.

Troy Said:

Physical Therapist Assistant?

We Answered:

1. While I'm not sure of the burn out rate, many PTAs enjoy the flexibility of the career...a chance to work part time, full time or as needed. Many PTAs might work jobs at multiple locations or carry some other type of part time work...I think this can help prevent burn out
2. Pay for PTAs ranges generally between $35-45,000. I'd expect the salary to be a little lower in areas where the cost of living is low, but rural areas and had to fill spots can bring in more money
3. PTAs might have to work with patients in the hospital and, yes, might need to assist them to the toilet...PTs see this too...
4. The level of supervision will depend on your state practice laws. It might range from general supervison (meaning a PT is on site) to distant supervision (PT is available by phone call). PTAs really have more freedom than you think...not like a tech where they are usually under line of site supervison.
5. The physical demand will depend on the setting. In the hospital, rehab and nursing home setting, expect at least occasional heavy lifting. You would never pick up someone yourself if they were a maximum lift.

The APTA has a helpful site:

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