When it comes to understanding the differences between physical therapy and exercise physiology, it can be daunting for those who are unfamiliar with the terms. Both physical therapy and exercise physiology are healthcare professions that focus on improving the physical well-being of patients. Both are important for managing and preventing chronic conditions, for restoring optimal functioning following an injury or surgery, and for maintaining good health and physical fitness. Although physical therapy and exercise physiology share some similarities in their approach towards helping individuals improve their physical functioning, there are also some key differences between them. This blog post will discuss the differences between physical therapy and exercise physiology and their respective treatments, so that readers can gain a better understanding of each profession and the roles they serve.
What is exercise physiology?
Exercise physiology is a branch of medicine that focuses on using physical fitness to help patients manage their overall health or lessen the symptoms of their chronic conditions. Professionals who study exercise physiology gain knowledge of the advantages exercise can provide for different body systems or cells, such as the cardiovascular or nervous systems.
Patients in the field of exercise physiology frequently have long-term illnesses like diabetes or heart disease that can be helped by regular, tailored exercise routines. While many exercise physiology students go on to become exercise physiologists, others may choose to work in the health and fitness industry as personal trainers, exercise instructors, cardiopulmonary rehab specialists, or in health care management.
What is physical therapy?
Through individualized exercises and techniques, physical therapy is a type of healthcare that aids patients in regaining movement or learning it. Most patients who receive physical therapy have physical limitations, long-term illnesses, or injuries that make it difficult for them to perform daily activities. These patients can benefit from physical therapy to increase their mobility and overall quality of life.
Physical therapy experts frequently focus on one or more subspecialties, such as vestibular or pediatric therapy. Many people who pursue physical therapy education end up working as physical therapists or physiotherapists.
Similarities between physical therapy and exercise physiology
Exercise physiology and physical therapy have several commonalities, including:
Responsibilities
Physical therapy and exercise physiology specialists frequently perform similar tasks, such as:
Patients
Physical therapists and exercise physiologists occasionally treat the same patients. These patients could be elderly, have underlying medical conditions, or have severe injuries or disabilities. The main objective of a physical therapist or exercise physiologist is to assist their patients in increasing their capacity for daily activities or enhancing their general well-being.
Undergraduate curriculum
Similar college courses are frequently taken by those aspiring to work in the fields of physical therapy or exercise physiology. These classes typically focus on the functions of the nervous system, potential issues with the nervous system, and solutions to those issues. Kinesiology, neuro-rehabilitation, motor control, physiology, and functional anatomy are examples of specific courses.
Physical therapy vs. exercise physiology
The following are the main variations between exercise physiology and physical therapy:
Education
Most exercise physiology specialists hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Some exercise physiologists might also decide to get their master’s. Students may choose to major in kinesiology, sports education, or nutrition, or in a field related to exercise physiology.
Compared to exercise physiology, physical therapy professionals must have more education. Prior to receiving a doctor of physical therapy (DPT) degree, a physical therapist first earns a bachelor’s degree. Students studying physical therapy may take advanced courses in orthotics, musculoskeletal examination, and extremity kinesiology. In addition to clinical rotations, physical therapy students also apply for state licenses as part of their education.
Job duties
Physical therapists and exercise physiologists have some similar job duties, but they also have some different ones. Responsibilities that are unique to exercise physiologists include:
Responsibilities that are unique to physical therapists include:
Job options
There are numerous career options available to students who pursue either exercise physiology or physical therapy. However, the precise job options vary for each field. A physical therapy student may choose to work as a physical therapy assistant, which is an entry-level position that doesn’t require a master’s degree. Physical therapists can choose to specialize in a certain kind of physical therapy. Career options in physical therapy include:
Potential careers for students of exercise physiology include:
Salary
It’s crucial to keep in mind, though, that the pay for either profession can vary widely depending on a variety of factors, such as one’s geographic location, level of education, and years of experience.
Objective
Physical therapists and exercise physiologists can both assist their patients in achieving optimal health. However, physical therapists work with patients who have specific mobility issues more frequently, regardless of whether those issues are related to procedures, accidents, or disabilities. Conversely, exercise physiologists typically work with patients who have underlying illnesses like cardiovascular or lung diseases to learn how to improve their quality of life.
Work environment
A physical therapist frequently works in a setting that is more clinical, such as a hospital or a private medical practice. Exercise physiologists may also find employment in some medical settings. However, private gyms or athlete training facilities are the places where an exercise physiologist is most likely to find work.
Career outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that employment opportunities for physical therapists and exercise physiologists will both grow through 2030. However, the precise growth rate for these two occupations varies.
Methods
A primary goal of an exercise physiologist is to treat patients by developing individualized physical fitness plans and objectives. They may also recommend dietary modifications or self-massage techniques.
To assist their patients in regaining or learning physical mobility, physical therapists employ a variety of techniques, such as:
Tips for choosing between physical therapy and exercise physiology careers
Here are some tips for choosing between a career in physical therapy or exercise physiology:
Evaluate your ideal work environment
Think about your preferred work environment. The majority of physical therapists’ jobs are in hospitals, private practices, or clinics. While there may be some employment opportunities for exercise physiologists in these kinds of establishments, they may have a higher chance of doing so in businesses that emphasize physical fitness or general well-being, such as gyms, professional sports leagues, or corporate fitness centers.
Physical therapy is a career option if you’d prefer to work in a medical setting. But if you feel more at home in an athletic setting, consider majoring in exercise physiology.
Think about how soon you want to start your career
Think about how long you want to spend studying before starting a career. Students who study exercise physiology can begin their careers more quickly because most positions only need a bachelor’s degree.
But since students must earn both a bachelor’s and a doctorate degree, it typically takes seven to eight years to become a physical therapist. However, keep in mind that physical therapists may have a higher earning potential than exercise physiologists due to their more advanced education.
Consider your preferred field
Consider the differences between these two professions and decide which one best matches your interests or qualifications. Customized physical fitness plans and goals are created more thoroughly by an exercise physiologist. In contrast, physical therapists devote most of their time to assisting patients in regaining their normal mobility.
Consider a career in exercise physiology if you’re passionate about helping people improve their quality of life through exercise. Consider studying physical therapy if you’re more interested in empowering people with disabilities or injuries to carry out their daily activities independently.
Exercise Physiology vs Physical Therapy
FAQ
What is the difference between exercise physiology and physical therapy?
Exercise physiology aims to treat symptoms by utilizing the body’s cellular response to exercise, as opposed to physical therapy, which concentrates on restoring movement to the restricted areas of the body.
Why is exercise physiology important in physical therapy?
Exercise physiologist: An exercise physiologist encourages people with underlying illnesses, such as diabetes or heart disease, to engage in physical activity to improve their health. They develop special treatment programs based on a patient’s fitness objectives as well as any medical conditions or requirements.
Are kinesiology and exercise physiology the same?
The study of human movement through an understanding of mechanics, anatomy, and physiology is known as kinesiology. The study, enhancement, and maintenance of the physiological processes underlying fitness and health are the focus of exercise physiology.
