How do you like being a PT?

I'm 21, I've been researching all possible health care jobs for years. I just want to have a job where I'm helping people and not have to deal with smells, bodily fluids etc. like a nurse.

I've been to many PTs in my life because 1. I have a chronic pain disorder and 2. I'm VERY injury prone. I can't run 200 feet without injuring tendons.

Believe me this is NOT the first time nor the last time that I research PT. Reasons I turned it down and moved on to something else was because I'm kinda shy and I don't feel I have enough confidence to touch patients in the way PTs do or mimic some of the exercises. But I've had PTs that just tell me to do something and walk away. I don't know if that is the norm or what.

I've also heard that schooling can be difficult. I'm not good with academics, but I was seriously considering becoming a respiratory therapist and I know that isn't easy. So if I want it bad enough I can make it happen, maybe. I do have minor learning disabilities.

Tell me what the challenges are of being a PT, what you like the most/least, what I should look for in a school, and what your hours are like.

I do have a passion for health and fitness and almost became a personal trainer.

Thanks!

how come you are 21 and just now considering what you are going to do?

Wow, okay

I've actually been trying to find my future career my whole life. I was always on a constant pursuit of what I might want to do, what I would love. Things I love are cooking, drawing, writing, music and dance, but none do I want to create a career out of. Why rush into things and fork over so much money for something I'm not sure about? I want to be sure before I consider anything. I work with a bunch of twenty year olds at whole foods who have degrees, but don't use them because they have no longer have an interest in that field. And then there area bunch who are like me and don't know what they want to do.

Valgal,

Nevermind the condescending comment above from Ashley. If you have a passion for this kind of work, I believe that you can overcome not being terrific academically. Having said that, it's a long road academically - you will need to have a bachelor's degree before you can apply to almost all PT programs. I assume from your posts that you don't have a bachelor's yet. So, if you are sure that you want to pursue something in the healthcare field, I would start working towards your bachelor's degree in a science related field and perhaps then you can narrow down your options and see if PT is right for you.

One thing to consider - if you are truly very injury-prone, PT could be a challenge for you, as many settings are physically taxing to the therapist.

Good luck,

James

Vagal,
Give some careful thought to the physical requirements and your interest in working directly with patients. I remember being 21 and dealing with "adults" as an adult was new and different but quickly becomes familiar and comfortable.
You might consider a career as a Physical Therapy Assistant. Lower educational requirements but I believe most find it to be rewarding in many ways. They're very high in demand, which brings a level of security you'll grow to appreciate.

Thanks! Funny thing is that im starting the pre requisites for the physical therapist assistant program this month. Yes, one thing that worries me about this career choice is all the interaction with people. i am an introvert, and too much interaction can be draining. but i do love helping people, listening, showing compassion etc. I also don't have good memorization ability or good recall.