Physical therapy is a dynamic healthcare profession with strong theoretical and research based scientific foundation. It primarily focuses on the patients that have musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiopulmonary, vestibular and integumentary systems’ impairments leading to functional disabilities. It also focuses on the method of evaluating functions of these systems and on the selection and application of appropriate therapeutic interventions to alleviate pain; eliminate impairments; maintain, improve, or restore function; and prevent dysfunction. Additionally, the field of physical therapy is well developed in specializations such as sports physical therapy; women’s health; prosthetics and orthotics; lymph edema and burns/wound care. Physical therapists work closely with all healthcare professionals in providing care to the patients. They work in all settings including acute, sub-acute, chronic, inpatient and out-patient facilities. Physical therapists have an elaborate role in the treatment of pediatric and geriatric populations that have movement dysfunctions. The profession of Physical therapy has enormously developed within last few decades throughout the world. In Pakistan, we are also pursuing the higher standards of education set forth worldwide. Doctor of Physical Therapy’s curriculum has been developed while keeping in lieu with the requirements posed by international practice standards. There is a large research component built into the curriculum to keep up with the evidence based physical therapy practice.

Associated Department in Medical College/FMH

Employment opportunities for physical therapists are tremendous as it is a career where the demand exceeds supply. It has application in twenty-four out of twenty-seven medical disciplines. Their demand in medical institutions is increasing since physical therapy plays an important role in the treatment of patients of all ages with various problems. Like all other medical and allied professionals, physical therapists can work in hospitals, orthopedic departments, neurorehabilitation centers, schools for the mentally retarded and physically disabled children, health institutions and defense medical establishments. Physical Therapists can also opt for teaching, while those with adequate capital can establish private clinics of their own. Options for higher post-graduate studies up to PhD are available worldwide, after which Physical therapists can teach and be actively involved in research at academic and clinical institutions of Pakistan and abroad. 

Career Opportunities once you graduate 

There is a full service physical therapy clinic available at Fatima Memorial Hospital which has a high indoor and outdoor patient turnover. It offers both inpatient and outpatient services to patients with musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiopulmonary, respiratory, integumentary, and vestibular problems at all stages of diseases. Students have complete access to the clinic and gain rich knowledge of their physical therapy skills from realistic interactions with the patients. Additionally, physical therapy students’ clinical rotations are scheduled at the adult and Pediatric medical and surgical wards and ICUs of Fatima Memorial Hospital.