How to Be Kinesiology Rehabilitation Specialist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

May 11, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Kinesiology Rehabilitation Specialists play a vital role in restoring and improving the physical function of people who have been injured or suffered from a physical impairment. They assess the patient's condition, develop and implement appropriate treatment plans, and monitor progress over time. Through their interventions, they help to reduce pain, pain management, improve range of motion, improve flexibility, and prevent re-injury.

By helping patients regain their physical mobility, Kinesiology Rehabilitation Specialists can help improve the patient's quality of life, as well as their overall health. This in turn can lead to an increase in self-confidence, reduce stress levels, and improved psychological well-being.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. To become a Kinesiology Rehabilitation Specialist, you must first complete a Bachelor's Degree in Kinesiology, Exercise Science, Physical Education, or a related field. Most positions require at least an undergraduate degree in a related field.
Earn a Master's Degree. Once you have obtained your Bachelor's Degree, you may choose to pursue a Master's Degree in Kinesiology, Exercise Science, Physical Education, or a related field. A Master's Degree will give you the opportunity to explore more advanced topics in the field and will make you more competitive in the job market.
Obtain Certification. After you have earned your degree, you should consider obtaining a certification as a Kinesiology Rehabilitation Specialist. Certification is available through organizations such as the National Board for Certification in Physical Therapy (NBCPT). This certification will demonstrate to potential employers that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to work as a Kinesiology Rehabilitation Specialist.
Complete an Internship. In addition to obtaining a certification, it is recommended that you complete an internship in a clinical setting. An internship will provide you with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the field and will help you better understand how to work with patients.
Find Employment. Once you have completed all of the steps above, you can begin looking for employment as a Kinesiology Rehabilitation Specialist. Many hospitals and clinics employ Kinesiology Rehabilitation Specialists, so it is important to research potential employers and apply for positions that fit your qualifications.

Staying ahead and capable in the field of Kinesiology Rehabilitation requires dedication and hard work. Regularly attending continuing education courses and staying up-to-date on the latest research and techniques is essential. networking with other professionals in the field can provide valuable insight and help you stay aware of developments in the industry.

Finally, staying organized and having a well-structured plan for progress is also key; this will help you stay focused and motivated on the path to success. With these tips, you can have confidence that your knowledge and skills will remain sharp, enabling you to stay ahead and capable as a Kinesiology Rehabilitation Specialist.

You may want to check Kinesiology Physical Therapist, Kinesiology Instructor, and Kinesiology Clinical Specialist for alternative.

Job Description

Develop and implement rehabilitation plans for individuals with physical and mental disabilities.
Educate patients about how to improve their physical, mental and emotional well-being.
Evaluate patients physical abilities and limitations and plan individualized treatment plans.
Monitor and document patient progress, adjusting treatment plans as needed.
Assist in the development and implementation of therapeutic recreation programs.
Perform treatments such as therapeutic exercise, stretching, massage, and electrical stimulation to reduce pain and improve mobility.
Provide education to patients on how to use assistive devices and perform daily activities safely.
Collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure quality patient care.
Keep up-to-date with the latest developments in rehabilitation methods.
Maintain accurate patient records and documentation of treatments.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics.
Understanding of injury prevention and management.
Ability to assess, diagnose, and treat musculoskeletal injuries.
Skilled in administering therapeutic exercise, stretching, and manual therapy techniques.
Competency in the use of modalities such as heat, cold, electricity, and ultrasound.
Familiarity with complementary and alternative therapies, such as acupuncture and massage.
Ability to develop individualized rehabilitation plans and goals.
Understanding of pharmacology as it pertains to rehabilitation.
Knowledge of medical documentation and billing practices.
Ability to communicate effectively with patients, physicians, and other healthcare providers.

Having a strong knowledge of physiology and kinesiology is essential for a Kinesiology Rehabilitation Specialist. A successful rehabilitation specialist must understand the musculoskeletal system and be able to develop effective treatment plans. They must have an understanding of anatomy, biomechanics, exercise science and physical rehabilitation techniques.

Good communication and problem-solving skills are also important, as they will be working with patients to assess and diagnose their condition, develop treatment plans, and communicate those plans to patients and families. Furthermore, they must be patient, organized, and possess the ability to work independently as well as part of a team. With these skills, Kinesiology Rehabilitation Specialists can help patients recover from injury or illness and return to their normal activities.

Kinesiology Manager, Kinesiology Data Analyst, and Kinesiology Health Specialist are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in kinesiology rehabilitation?
How do you stay current on the latest trends in kinesiology rehabilitation?
What strategies do you use to build rapport with patients?
Describe your approach to evaluating a patients condition and developing a customized plan of care.
How do you ensure patient safety and comfort when providing rehabilitation services?
Describe a time when you successfully helped a patient reach their rehabilitation goals.
How would you handle a difficult patient who was resistant to the treatment plan?
What techniques do you use to motivate patients to adhere to their rehabilitation plan?
What challenges have you faced while working in kinesiology rehabilitation?
How do you collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure the best outcomes for patients?

Common Tools in Industry

Exercise Band. A stretchable elastic band used to provide resistance and support during exercises. (eg: shoulder abduction exercise)
Foam Roller. A cylindrical foam tool used to provide deep tissue massage to promote muscle recovery. (eg: rolling the IT band)
Swiss Ball. An inflatable ball used to increase balance, stability and core strength. (eg: plank exercises)
Medicine Ball. A weighted ball used to increase strength, power, and stability. (eg: Russian twists)
Resistance Tubing. Elastic tubing used to provide resistance and support during exercises. (eg: arm curls)
Free Weights. Various weighted objects used to increase strength, power, and stability. (eg: bicep curls)
Thera-Band. A stretchable elastic band used for rehabilitation exercises. (eg: shoulder external rotation)
Balance Board. A board used to improve balance, coordination and stability. (eg: single-leg balance drills)
Weighted Vest. A vest that adds extra weight to the body during exercise. (eg: squats)
Stability Ball. An inflatable ball used to improve coordination, balance, and stability. (eg: bridge exercises)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists (AAOMPT)
American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
International Federation of Orthopaedic Manipulative Physical Therapists (IFOMPT)
National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA)
American Society of Kinesiology and Rehabilitation (ASKR)
American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
American Society of Exercise Physiologists (ASEP)
National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl. )
International Association of Rehabilitation Professionals (IARP)

We also have Kinesiology Coach, Kinesiology Technician, and Kinesiology Occupational Therapist jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Injury Prevention. The practice of avoiding, reducing, or mitigating the risk of injury or harm to an individual or group of people.
Physical Therapy. A form of medical treatment focused on restoring physical function and quality of life in patients suffering from injury or illness.
Exercise Physiology. The study of the body's response to and adaptation to physical activity.
Therapeutic Exercise. The use of specific exercises to address specific musculoskeletal conditions or impairments.
Biomechanics. The study of the motion of objects or organisms, and the forces that cause them.
Strength Training. A form of exercise focused on building muscle strength and endurance.
Flexibility Training. A form of exercise focused on improving flexibility and range of motion.
Cardiovascular Training. A form of exercise focused on improving cardiovascular fitness and endurance.
Sport Psychology. The study of how psychological factors affect athletic performance and how athletes can use psychological techniques to improve their performance.
Ergonomics. The study of how humans interact with their environment, and how to design equipment, tools, and other objects to best suit their needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Kinesiology Rehabilitation Specialist do?

A Kinesiology Rehabilitation Specialist uses therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, and other evidence-based treatments to help patients improve physical function, manage pain, and reduce the risk of injury.

What qualifications do you need to be a Kinesiology Rehabilitation Specialist?

To become a Kinesiology Rehabilitation Specialist, individuals must typically hold a masters degree in kinesiology or rehabilitation science, as well as have certification from a professional organization such as the American Kinesiology Association or the American College of Sports Medicine.

What types of patients do Kinesiology Rehabilitation Specialists treat?

Kinesiology Rehabilitation Specialists typically treat patients with orthopedic, neurological, and musculoskeletal conditions. Examples of patients they treat include those with sports injuries, spinal cord injuries, stroke survivors, and individuals recovering from surgery.

What techniques do Kinesiology Rehabilitation Specialists use?

Kinesiology Rehabilitation Specialists use evidence-based treatment techniques such as therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, and patient education. They may also use modalities such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation to help manage pain and improve physical function.