Doctors of Physical Therapy - Aries Physical Therapy

Has your physical therapist achieved the highest level of education in physical therapy? Most practitioners only have a few years of schooling in physical therapy. All our physical therapists are Doctors of Physical Therapy. Learn why it matters below:

What does DPT stand for?

DPT stands for Doctor of Physical Therapy, the highest degree in the field of clinical physical therapy.

Why it matters?

This degree is the gold standard for physical therapists. A Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) has the knowledge and skillset to not only identify and treat your injuries but do so much more. DPTs have gained the knowledge to identify injuries more comprehensively as well as screen for any underlying conditions. DPTs have more extensive training in primary care and medical screening so they can be your first stop in medical care as a primary care provider. They can identify red flags that others may miss and can refer you out for additional care that may be needed to maximize treatment and protect you from any medical emergencies. They can act as your medical liaison into the healthcare community.

What’s the difference?

The physical therapy degree has evolved from a bachelor’s to a master’s to a doctorate level degree over the last 4 decades. With this evolution in the degree the practitioners earning these degrees have gained a wider base of knowledge and increased prominence in the medical community. With the additional years of education needed to obtain the higher degree a DPT now includes classes across the medical spectrum from imaging, to pharmacology to systemic diseases. The difference from a practical standpoint has been with the increased confidence in allowing these DPTs to see patients directly and without referrals from other providers. Overall, a higher terminal degree has required a more intensive and well-rounded education that has led to DPTs taking on a larger role in the medical landscape.

Why it is important?

It is important to see a DPT to ensure you are getting optimal care. It is important to see the most highly skilled individual to ensure you are receiving proper care, top level care and that nothing is left to chance with the use of evidence-based practice. The knowledge of primary care only achieved by a DPT is crucial in identifying all factors of the individual, not just their injury. It is paramount to patient protection and safety in conditions that are multifactorial in nature.