How to Be Physical Therapy Clinical Specialist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Aug 21, 2020 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Physical therapy clinical specialists are highly trained professionals who provide specialized physical therapy services to improve a patient's health and quality of life. They assess and diagnose the patient, develop and implement a treatment plan, and monitor progress to ensure the patient's goals are met. This can lead to improved mobility, muscle strength, and joint stability, as well as reduced pain, improved balance, and increased independence.

these specialists collaborate with other health care professionals to ensure comprehensive care and treatment for the patient. As a result, physical therapy clinical specialists can help improve a patient's overall physical health and well-being.

Steps How to Become

Earn a Bachelors Degree. The first step to becoming a Physical Therapy Clinical Specialist is to earn a four-year bachelors degree in physical therapy. Students should focus on classes that relate to physical therapy and exercise science.
Complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program. After earning a bachelors degree, students must complete a three-year Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. During the program, students will gain advanced knowledge and skills in evaluating and treating physical therapy patients.
Obtain Licensure. To practice as a physical therapist, all states require licensure. To be eligible for licensure, applicants must pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE).
Obtain Certification. To become a Physical Therapy Clinical Specialist, applicants must obtain certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS). To be eligible for certification, applicants must have at least 3,000 hours of clinical experience in their specialty area, pass the Clinical Specialist Examination, and demonstrate continued professional development.
Maintain Certification. Once certified, physical therapists must maintain their certification by completing continuing education courses and meeting any other requirements set by the ABPTS.

One way to stay ahead and efficient as a physical therapy clinical specialist is to stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends and developments. By staying informed and knowledgeable about the latest advances in physical therapy and patient care, clinical specialists can provide the best care for their patients. staying organized and utilizing time management strategies are key to staying efficient.

Having a system for tracking patient records, setting appointments, and managing paperwork can help clinical specialists quickly and accurately manage their workload. Finally, collaborating with other healthcare professionals to share best practices and resources can help clinical specialists stay ahead of the competition and provide better, more efficient care.

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Job Description

Evaluate patient progress and provide direction to physical therapists and other health care professionals.
Administer manual therapy techniques as part of therapeutic interventions.
Teach patients proper posture, balance, coordination, and body mechanics.
Develop and implement patient-specific treatment plans.
Monitor patient outcomes, providing feedback and changes to treatment plans as needed.
Design and implement therapeutic exercise programs for patients with neuromusculoskeletal dysfunctions.
Assess and interpret the results of tests and measurements to plan and modify treatment programs.
Educate patients and families about techniques, safety measures, and lifestyle changes that will promote a more active and healthy life.
Collaborate with other health care professionals to ensure a comprehensive, integrated treatment plan for each patient.
Document patient evaluations, treatments, and progress in medical records.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, kinesiology and biomechanics
Understanding of physical therapy assessment and evaluation techniques
Ability to develop and implement effective treatment plans
Expertise in the use of therapeutic modalities
Proficiency in manual therapy techniques
Knowledge of patient education principles
Familiarity with medical legal issues in healthcare
Understanding of evidence-based practice guidelines
Ability to collaborate with other healthcare professionals
Proficiency in documentation and coding standards
Understanding of reimbursement policies and procedures
Expertise in risk management and quality assurance strategies
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Physical therapy clinical specialists are highly skilled professionals who provide a variety of specialized services to patients with physical impairments. Their skills include the ability to assess, diagnose, and develop treatment plans for patients with physical impairments. They must also possess the knowledge and skills necessary to provide effective and safe treatments, as well as the ability to motivate patients to pursue their rehabilitative goals.

Such skills can have a profound effect on the outcomes of physical therapy treatments. By accurately assessing a patients needs, developing an effective treatment plan, and motivating the patient to follow through, physical therapy clinical specialists are able to improve the chances of successful patient outcomes. In addition, they must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to be able to collaborate with other healthcare professionals, as well as the patient and their family.

the success of physical therapy treatments relies on the knowledge, skills, and character of the physical therapy clinical specialist.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working as a Physical Therapy Clinical Specialist?
How do you stay up to date on the latest advancements in physical therapy treatments?
What do you see as the biggest challenges in this role?
Describe a time when you had to manage a difficult patient situation.
How do you keep accurate and up to date records of patient progress?
Describe a time when you had to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team.
What techniques do you use to ensure patient engagement and compliance?
Describe a time when you successfully overcame a technical challenge in the clinic.
How would you handle a difficult conversation with a patient or family member?
What strategies do you use to ensure patient safety?

Common Tools in Industry

Manual Therapy Techniques. Manual techniques such as massage, mobilization, and stretching used to improve physical function and reduce pain. (eg: Joint mobilization to increase shoulder range of motion)
Exercise Prescription. Designing a personalized exercise program to improve strength, endurance, balance, and flexibility. (eg: Knee strengthening exercises)
Gait Training. Teaching proper walking mechanics and gait patterns to improve mobility and safety while walking. (eg: Using a walker and proper body mechanics)
Aquatic Therapy. Utilizing the properties of water to aid in exercise, postural control, and relaxation. (eg: Pool exercises for improved balance)
Electrical Stimulation. The use of electrical currents to stimulate muscle contractions to improve strength and coordination. (eg: Using an electrical stimulation device to improve quadriceps strength)
Therapeutic Ultrasound. The use of sound waves to increase blood flow and reduce pain and inflammation. (eg: Applying ultrasound to reduce knee swelling)
Neuromuscular Reeducation. Retraining muscles and nerves to improve coordination and balance. (eg: Balance training exercises)
Education and Training. Teaching patients about their condition and providing strategies for proper self-care and management. (eg: Teaching proper body mechanics for lifting heavy objects)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
Orthopaedic Section of the American Physical Therapy Association (OPTA)
American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists (AAOMPT)
Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT)
International Federation of Orthopaedic Manipulative Physical Therapists (IFOMPT)
World Confederation for Physical Therapy (WCPT)
American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS)
National Board for Certification in Physical Therapy (NBCPT)
International Organization of Physical Therapists in Private Practice (IOPTPP)
American Society of Hand Therapists (ASHT)

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Common Important Terms

Orthopedic Physical Therapy. A type of physical therapy which focuses on musculoskeletal injuries, including muscular and skeletal disorders, sports-related injuries, and post-operative rehabilitation.
Manual Therapy. A form of physical therapy which involves the use of manual manipulation techniques, such as soft tissue mobilization and joint mobilization, to treat musculoskeletal injuries.
Kinesiology. The study of human movement and how it is affected by the muscular and skeletal systems.
Sports Medicine. A branch of medicine that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of injuries related to physical activity and sport.
Rehabilitation. The process of restoring an individuals physical, mental, and social functioning after an injury or illness.
Exercise Physiology. The study of the body's response to physical activity and exercise.
Clinical Pathology. The study of diseases and their causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
Motor Control Theory. A theory of motor behavior which focuses on the coordination between the nervous system and muscles.
Strength Training. A form of physical activity which focuses on increasing muscle strength and endurance through resistance exercises.
Biomechanics. The study of the forces acting on the body during movement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Physical Therapy Clinical Specialist (PTCS)?

A Physical Therapy Clinical Specialist (PTCS) is a physical therapist who has completed advanced training in a specific clinical area and has obtained board certification in that specialty.

What are the areas of specialty for PTCS?

Areas of specialty for PTCS include Cardiovascular and Pulmonary, Geriatrics, Neurology, Orthopedics, Pediatrics, Sports Physical Therapy, and Womens Health.

What credentials do PTCS need?

To become a PTCS, physical therapists must have a minimum of 2,000 hours of clinical practice in the specialty area, pass an exam administered by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties, and maintain continuing education requirements.

How long does it take to become a PTCS?

The process of becoming a PTCS can take several years depending on the particular specialty area. After completing the required education and experience, the exam must be taken and passed.

What benefits come with becoming a PTCS?

Becoming a PTCS allows physical therapists to demonstrate their advanced knowledge and skill in their specialty area. It also provides them with the opportunity to work in specialized clinics and gain access to new career opportunities.