Physical Therapists

Shifts for physical therapist vary from a standard 40-hour work week to longer shifts but fewer days per week. Patient sessions may be brief or may last an hour or more. Usually, treatment is on an individual basis, but occasionally therapy may be given in groups when the patients' problems are similar. Most physical therapists work full-time, and about 4 percent are self-employed.

The career of physical therapist often ranks high on "best job" lists. For example, U.S. News & World Report creates an annual list of the 100 best jobs in the United States. Occupations that rank high on its list offer a good work/life balance, low or manageable stress levels, excellent pay, and strong employment prospects with lots of jobs available. In 2025, U.S. News ranked the career of physical therapist as the 21st-best occupation, and the 7th-best healthcare occupation. Visit https://money.usnews.com/careers/best-jobs/rankings/the-100-best-jobs to learn more about a career as a physical therapist and read the complete list.