Do You Think You Could Be A Physio?

June 01, 2021

Interested in physiotherapy? It’s a field that demands a hands-on approach, but it also requires a high quota of Emotional Intelligence. A healthy body and brain work in complete partnership and as a Chartered Physiotherapist your job is to work with your patient to restore that balance – taking a bio-psycho-social approach to any injury or condition.

“You need to be an excellent communicator and motivator,” says Jacqueline Mullan, associate head of the department of allied health professions at the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol).

So, How do I become a Chartered Physiotherapist?

A university degree is the most popular way to become a physiotherapist. A full-time degree can take three years and a part-time course will take six years. A two-year accelerated Masters course is also an option if you already have a relevant degree, such as a Sports Science or Sports Therapy. Once you’ve successfully completed your degree you’ll need to register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) before you can start practising. The other option is to apply for a degree apprenticeship. Read more about how you can attain Chartered Physiotherapy status here Different paths | The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (csp.org.uk)

Each university sets its own entry requirements, so it’s important to check with them directly. In most cases, the results of an interview and other selection processes are taken into account as well as academic qualifications. It’s also a good idea to spend some time with a registered physiotherapist to get some first – hand experience of what the role’s really like.

What attributes should I have?

Whichever route you take, you’ll also need to be a good communicator who can be hands-on and explain conditions and treatments easily to clients. Having a caring and calm nature is equally important. Physiotherapy can be physically and mentally strenuous so you should also be physically fit with strong organisational and planning skills too.

Once you have qualified you will be able further your career by specialising in a particular field. For almost every specialism in medicine there will be a physio involved so there is plenty of choice both in the NHS and in the private sector.

If you are looking for a fulfilling career, enjoy problem solving and working with others in a medical setting, why not look into this most rewarding of professions.