What is a Physical Therapist  P.T.?

A physical therapist (P.T.) is a highly skilled, rehabilitaion specialist and licensed health care provider who can evaluate and treat musculo-skeletal and neurological injuries.  Physical therapists have extensive education and training in various types of "hands on" evaluation and treatment techniques.  All licensed physical therapists graduate from accredited physical therapy programs with either a Bahcelor, Master's or Doctorate level degree.  Clinical education includes background in human anatomy and physiology, pathology, kinesiology and all types of exercise.  All physical therapists upgrade their education level each year with seminars to keep abreast of the latest information and treatment techniques.  Sports Medicine and orthopedics are just two of the many areas in which P.T.'s can specialize.

What is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist  C.S.C.S.?

A certified strength and conditioning specialist (C.S.C.S.) is an individual who possesses the knowledge and skills needed to design and implement safe and effective strength and conditioning programs for athletes in a team setting.  The certification is achieved by passing a national certification examination through the National Strength and Conditioning Association.  Ongoing continuing education must be completed to maintain this certification.  Many physical therapists that work in sports medicine settings complete C.S.C.S training.

M.S.P.T:  Master's of Science in Physical Therapy

M.P.T:  Master's in Physical Therapy

O.C.S:  An Orthopedic Clinical Specialist is an individual who is Board certified in orthopedics through the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).  Candidates sit for a rigorous, multifaceted test of all areas of orthopedic practice and must pass all sections to become certified.

O.M.P.T:  Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapist