Specialization is the process by which a physical therapist builds on a broad base of professional education and practice to develop a greater depth of knowledge and skills related to a particular area of practice.  Clinical specialization in physical therapy responds to a specific area of patient need and requires knowledge, skill, and experience exceeding that of the physical therapist at entry to the profession and unique to the specialized area of practice.

3. What is physiotherapy?
 Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession that assesses, diagnoses, treats,
and works to prevent disease and disability through physical means.
 Physiotherapists are experts in movement and function who work in
partnership with their patients, assisting them to overcome movement
disorders, which may have been present from birth, acquired through
accident or injury, or are the result of ageing or life-changing events.

4. Entry level physical therapy
education programs
 Doctor of Physical
Therapy (DPT)
 The Doctor of Physiotherapy is a professional
entry masters level program that provides
students with a comprehensive, integrated course
in the theory and practice of physiotherapy to
assess, diagnose and treat disorders of human
movement.
 A Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree
is also offered for those who already hold a
professional Bachelor or Master of
Physiotherapy (PT or MPT) degree.
 Bachelor in Physiotherapy (BP
T)
 Bachelor in Physiotherapy (BPT) is a 4-year
undergraduate program in physiotherapy with 6
months of mandatory clinical internship.

5. Why Specialties
 Specialization is the process by which a physical therapist builds on a broad base of
professional education and practice to develop a greater depth of knowledge and skills
related to a particular area of practice.
 Clinical specialization in physical therapy responds to a specific area of patient need and
requires knowledge, skill, and experience exceeding that of the physical therapist at entry
to the profession and unique to the specialized area of practice.
 The specialist certification program was established to provide formal recognition for
physical therapists with advanced clinical knowledge, experience, and skills in a special
area of practice and to assist consumers and the health care community in identifying
these physical therapists.

6. An example: USA Sections
 The APTA offers 18 special-interest sections that provide Physical Therapists with the
resources they need to stay current in their area of expertise and connect with others
sharing their specific interests.
 The sections include Acute Care, Aquatic Physical Therapy, Cardiovascular and
Pulmonary, Clinical Electrophysiology and Wound Management, Education, Federal
Physical Therapy, Geriatrics , Hand Rehabilitation, Health Policy and Administration,
Home Health, Neurology, Orthopedics, Pediatrics, Private Practice, Research, Sports
Physical Therapy, and Women's Health .
 Of these 18 sections, 8 of them offer specializations.

7. Cardiovascular and Pulmonary
(CCS)
 The Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Section serves its members, the physical therapy
profession, and the community by promoting the development, application, and
advancement of cardiovascular and pulmonary physical therapy practice, education, and
research.
 The Section is a resource for members of the physical therapy profession who provide
health, wellness, prevention and/or rehabilitation services to individuals at risk for, or
diagnosed with, cardiovascular or pulmonary impairments.
 The cardiovascular and pulmonary quarterly publication is Cardiopulmonary Physical
Therapy Journal. (Please refer to cardiopulmonary rehabilitation for more information.)

8. Clinical Electrophysiology (ECS)
(and Wound Management)
 The Section on Clinical Electrophysiology and Wound Management addresses the needs
of its members in electrotherapy/physical agents, electrophysiological evaluation, physical
agents, and wound management.
 The Section provides continuing education programs and works to influence legislative
and reimbursement issues that affect physical therapy services.
 Special Interest Groups include Electrophysiologic Evaluation, Physical Agent
Interventions: Electrotherapy, Thermotherapy, Light Therapy, and Wound Management.
 The clinical electrophysiology and wound management quarterly electronic newsletter is
Clinical Electrophysiology.

9. Geriatrics (GCS)
 The Section on Geriatrics fosters clinical excellence and the professional and career
development of physical therapists and physical therapist assistants working with older
adults by providing members with continuing education and assistance in the areas of
practice, research, and advocacy.
 Special Interest Groups include Balance and Falls, Health Promotion and Wellness, and
Osteoporosis.
 The geriatrics publications include trianually peer-reviewed Journal of Geriatric Physical
Therapy and bimonthly clinical magazine GeriNotes.

10. Neurology (NCS)
 The mission of the Neurology Section is to serve neurologic physical therapy providers
and to advance evidence-based practice, education, and research in neurologic physical
therapy.
 Members benefits include the opportunity to interact with others who have a common
interest in neurologic physical therapy, advance their knowledge through discussions
with clinical experts at professional meetings and through our neuromuscular listserve,
and participate in a growing, dynamic, and responsive specialty section that provides
avenues for professional growth and mentorship.
 Special Interest Groups include Brain Injury, Degenerative Diseases, Spinal Cord Injury,
Stroke, Balance and Falls, and Vestibular Rehabilitation.
 The neurology quarterly publication is Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy (JNPT).

11. Orthopaedics (OCS)
 The Orthopaedic Section provides a forum for those with an interest in the management
of patients with musculoskeletal disorders
 Education Groups include PTA, Knee/Patellafemoral, Manual Therapy, and Primary Care.
 Special Interest Groups include Occupational Health, Foot and Ankle, Performing Arts,
Pain Management, and Animal Rehabilitation
 Publications include monthly Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy (JOSPT)
and quarterly Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Practice (OPTP).

12. Pediatrics (PCS)
 The Section on Pediatrics promotes the highest quality of life for all children, people
with developmental disabilities, and their families.
 Through its continuing education programs, publications, listserve, and Web site, the
Section provides physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and students with
current information in the areas of practice, research, policy, and other related issues.
 Special Interest Groups include Adolescents & Adults with Developmental Disabilities,
Pediatric Sports-Fitness, School-based PT, and Neonatology.
 Publications include Pediatric Physical Therapy and Section on Pediatrics Newsletter.

13. Sports (SCS)
 The Sports Physical Therapy Section addresses the needs of its members
who are interested in athletic injury management, including acute care,
treatment and rehabilitation, prevention, and education.
 The programme is based on the philosophy of total care for the athlete
and the promotion of physical activity in the general population.
 Publications: Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy (JOSPT)
and North American Journal of Sports Physical Therapy.

14. Women's Health (WCS)
 The Section on Women's Health is dedicated to promoting and expanding the role of
physical therapy in women's health across the lifespan.
 The Section provides networking opportunities, educational resources, and continuing
education. The Section also supports standards of practice and fosters research.
 Triannual publications: Journal of the Section on Women's Health and Highlights in
Women's Health.

15. Oncology
 Leading the educators, researchers, and clinicians to provide in-depth
education in the physical therapy treatment of oncological and HIV
diseases.
 The Oncology Division’s mandate is to provide members with a
networking opportunity to connect with other physiotherapists working in
the field of oncology.
 Canada: We have a proactive executive group responsible for hosting a
number of courses throughout the year, distributing newsletters, and
keeping members up to date on the latest research.

16. Rehabilitation Science
 It is ideal for graduates with related first degrees who wish to gain both a professional
and academic qualification and start a career in this challenging and highly rewarding
field.
 This accelerated course is taught with the innovative problem-based learning
approach, with an emphasis on practical application of skills and knowledge. Through
this balance of theory and practice experience you will graduate a capable and
confident physiotherapist.
 UK: The Rehabilitation Science (Physiotherapy) MSc allows you to apply for
registration as a physiotherapist with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
This course is also approved by the professional body, The Chartered Society of
Physiotherapy.

17. Trauma and Orthopaedics
(Physiotherapy in the Emergency Department)
 This unique course enables specialist registrars to acquire a scientific and analytical
approach to orthopaedic practice, and engenders a class of orthopaedic surgeon with
a depth and breadth of skills, knowledge and attitude based on a solid foundation of
science and clinical expertise.
 The postgraduate certificate aims, in exceptional circumstances, to allow those who
withdraw from study at the end of one year to exit with an award for demonstrating a
limited range of science, clinical skills, service delivery and research awareness.
 (Physiotherapists working in the emergency department (ED) play an integral role in
the assessment, diagnosis, triage and management of patients with musculoskeletal
(MSK) injuries and frail elderly patients showing a decline in function. Physiotherapists
assess and treat mobility issues, provide instruction on appropriate mobility aids and
facilitate safe discharge planning from the ED)

18. Manual Therapy
(Advanced Manipulative Physiotherapy)
 The MSc in Manual Therapy is open to HPC and CSP registered physiotherapists who
wish to develop and extend their knowledge base and professional expertise in the
field of manual therapy.
 The course will prepare you for specialist roles within neuromusculoskeletal
physiotherapy such as extended scope practitioner, clinical specialist and consultant
physiotherapy posts and will enhance your career opportunities.
 Students who successfully complete the postgraduate diploma are eligible to join the
Manipulation Association of Chartered Physiotherapists.
 It is common for our graduates to progress within their chosen career into roles such
as extended scope practitioners, clinical specialists, consultants, research specialists and
lecturers.

19. Master Osteopathy, MOst
 This programme is run by the European School of Osteopathy, one of the university's
partner colleges, which is based in Maidstone, Kent.
 It is aimed at those wishing to practise as osteopaths, either in the UK or abroad, and is
accredited by the General Osteopathic Council.
 The first two years will prepare you for entry into the teaching clinic (integral with the
school); this is followed by two years of clinical work where you will gain 1,000 hours of
clinical experience.
 During this time, you are responsible for the osteopathic care of a minimum of 50 new
patients and you will be under the supervision of qualified osteopaths, who act as clinic
tutors.

20. Advanced Practitioner:
Physiotherapist
 This course is for senior clinicians and health care practitioners who wish to fulfill their
own personal and professional development needs whilst contributing to their
organisation's modernisation agenda and advancing their practice and leading the
service delivery for their client group/practice locality.
 The course meets the NMC 'Draft Standards for Advanced Practice' and enables
practitioners to develop their skills and services related to any of the clinical pathways.
 The practice-based programme is multi-professional and aims to reflect collaborative
methods of inquiry that will appeal to a broad range of health care professions with
experience of a variety of health care sectors.

21. Advancing Physiotherapy
Practice
 This course is for qualified physiotherapists and aims to improve your practice by
developing your assessment skills and clinical reasoning.
 You explore ways to measure the effectiveness of your clinical practice as well as issues
such as collaborative practice and engaging patients.
 The course helps to improve your employment prospects and can enable you to lead
clinical teams or work in teaching or research.

22. Applied Physiotherapy
 This course has been developed for students who are working in
physiotherapy roles in their home country and who wish to develop their
skills further.
 Students will be able to access and appraise new developments and
advances, which will influence patient management and rehabilitation and
will help to foster effective inter-professional working.

23. Applied Exercise
Physiology
 This course will suit you if you are a sport and exercise graduate, a
graduate from a related science or a medical student looking to specialise
in the field of exercise physiology.
 It is designed to focus on professional skills that improve your
employability, as you learn with state-of-the-art equipment including
environmental chambers, breath-by-breath analysers, blood sampling
analysers and transcranial magnetic stimulation devices.

24. Clinical Management of
Headache Disorders
 Headache disorders are the most prevalent of the neurological conditions and among
the most frequent of medical complaints seen in general practice.
 The objective of Clinical Management of Headache Disorders - MSc/Dip/Cert is to
reduce the burden of headache disorders and improve the management of headache in
primary care.
 A practise-based approach is central to this programme and will provide best practice
for the diagnosis, management and delivery of a headache service, and would be
particularly suited to healthcare professionals who want to improve their skills in this
area.

25. Exercise and Sports Medicine
(Football)
 The programme has been written collaboratively with The Football Association for
physiotherapists and physicians either working within football medicine or interested in
moving into football medicine, to enhance your employability.
 The programme is part of a collaboration framework of MSc and MRes programmes
between the School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences and the College of
Medical and Dental Sciences.
 Specifically, the programme has been written in line with the international competencies
and standards established by the International Federation of Sports Phsyiotherapists and
the Speciality Training Curriculum for Sports and Exercise Medicine.

26. Master Exercise Science (MRes)
 The principal aim of this programme is to equip you with the skills required to pursue a
career in exercise science.
 The programme focuses on effects of exercise, diet and lifestyle on human physiology.
 This degree programme offers the flexibility for you to specialise or to extend your range of
knowledge.
For example, if you are interested in elite performance in sport you might choose
Performance enhancement techniques and physiological adaptations to chronic exercise.
Alternatively, if you are interested in health promotion you may prefer Physical activity and
public health and Physical activity, fitness and metabolic health.

27. Mental Health and Physiotherapy
(Psychotherapeutic Approaches in Mental Health)
 The aim of physiotherapy in mental health ‘is to promote the well-being and autonomy
of people with physical health needs associated with mental or physical illness or
learning disability, and to use physical approaches to influence psychological health.’
 Physiotherapists specialised in mental health have specific physical and mental health
training to bridge the gap between physical and mental health needs of patients.
 We have an increasing important role to play in supporting patients with mental illness
and dementia to help improve their quality of life.
 Physiotherapists have a significant role in the multidisciplinary team approach to holistic
management.

28. Health Science (Health and
Rehabilitation)
 This multidisciplinary programme opens up different career options,
enabling you to focus on areas of relevant practice and research, and
helping you deal with rapid changes in knowledge and healthcare systems,
leading to improvements in quality of care.
 This programme supports the development of advanced practice skills,
research skills, critical appraisal abilities and clinical reasoning. We aim to
develop your initiative and commitment to lifelong learning in the context
of ever-changing health and social care systems.

29. Physiotherapy and Education
 The Physiotherapy and Education MSc is for qualified physiotherapists
wanting to build on their skills and knowledge, advance their professional
practice, and earn a further professional and academic qualification.
 The course helps you to develop your clinical and communication skills,
and broaden your knowledge of the physiotherapy specialty while earning
a formal qualification.
 Approaches to practice-based learning, with course durations and
intensities that can be adapted to your individual needs and outside
commitments.

30. Physiotherapy Studies
 This course has been designed specifically for physiotherapists wishing to explore cross-
cultural and diverse health care provision to develop a broader knowledge and
understanding of the global context of physiotherapy practice.
 This course is for qualified physiotherapists and combines intellectual rigour with the
consolidation of clinical skills. It provides physiotherapists with the knowledge and
abilities to work autonomously in diverse areas of practice and meet the demands of
changing roles.
 Learning material is delivered in a variety of ways including interactive lectures, practical
skills workshops, small-group seminars using a problem-based learning approach and
individual tutorials.

31. Preventive Cardiology
(Cardiovascular Health and Disease Prevention)
 Students will gain knowledge of, and experience in, the theory and clinical application of
evidence-based preventive cardiology practice.
 The programme covers the complete spectrum of preventive cardiology, from patients
with established atherosclerotic disease and the relatives of patients with premature
atherosclerotic disease, to asymptomatic people, including those with diabetes, who are
at high multi-factorial risk.
 Clinical placements are completed across key areas of preventive cardiology practice
e.g. cardiovascular risk reduction clinics, cardiac rehabilitation, diabetes and heart failure,
providing the opportunity for students to be immersed in the practicalities of current
service delivery, rather than learning only about the theory.

32. Psychodynamics of Human
Development This Master's degree in psychodynamics provides an understanding of human
development through the theoretical and clinical issues raised by infant observation,
through work study seminars and through psychoanalytic and Jungian analytic theories.
 This includes recent research in child development and contemporary issues in
psychodynamic or Jungian analytic theory. You will also be taught research methods and
complete an empirical or theoretical dissertation.
 This course is designed to provide professional and personal development for those
working in settings such as community care, counselling, social services, primary care,
mental health and education.
 It is a foundation, including accredited infant observation, for those considering
psychotherapy training and it fulfils the entry requirements for a Child and Adolescent
Psychotherapy Doctorate.

33. Advancing Spinal Cord
Rehabilitation and Management
 This course is offered to those working, in spinal injuries units or areas that are involved
in the management of patients with spinal injuries and who would like to develop or
progress in their knowledge and understanding of this field.
 This course will enable the healthcare professionals to respond to the needs of
individuals with spinal cord injury. It will provide you with the opportunity to expand and
synthesise knowledge, evidence and practice in the quest for clinical excellence in spinal
cord injury management.
 This course is delivered by well-known key specialists within the fields of spinal cord
injury management, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, nursing, clinical psychology,
social work as well as end users with spinal cord injury providing you with a holistic
model of care for spinal patients.

34. Vocational Rehabilitation
 Examine the social and political barriers that individuals with illness, injury and disabilities
may experience relating to work. You learn about the ways in which these can be
overcome and gain the knowledge, skills and strategies needed to support these people
in finding, remaining in or returning to work.
 This course is particularly useful if you work in employment-related areas, such as •
occupational health • human resources • employment services • rehabilitation • disability
services.
 Studying on this course enables you to be at the forefront of political changes relating to
work and welfare reform. This is a good way to enhance your employability in your
chosen area of work and allow you to engage in best practice with your service users.

35. Other
Specialties and areas of
practice
 Men’s Health Physiotherapy
 Space Physiotherapy
 Pain Management
 Defence Force(military) Physiotherapy
 Family Physiotherapy
 And …

36. WCPT subgroups
 WCPT subgroups are important independent organisations in
their own right. They have a specific area of interest, and
promote the advancement of physical therapy and exchange of
scientific knowledge in their field.
 These international organisations have met the requirements for
recognition as a subgroup of WCPT. They have to be composed
of member organisations or groups recognised by a WCPT
member organisation (members of the groups also have to be
members of the WCPT member organisation).
 Subgroups have to have at least ten members, representing at
least three of the WCPT regions.
 Cardiorespiratory
 EPAs (Electrophysical Agents)
 Manual therapy
 Mental health
 Neurology
 Older people
 Paediatrics
 Private practice
 Animal practice
 Sports
 Women's health
 Acupuncture

37. Refrences
 http://www.wcpt.org/subgroups
 www.mastersportal.eu
 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Board_of_Physical_Therapy_Specialties
 ^ Jump up to:a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q [1] - American Physical Therapy Association
 ^ Jump up to:a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q [2] - American Physical Therapy Association
 ^ Jump up to:a b [3] - American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties
 ^ Jump up to:a b [4] - American Physical Therapy Association
 Jump up^ [5] - APTA Residency and Fellowship Credentialing Frequently Asked Questions
 http://www.physiotherapy.ca/Practice-Resources/Professional-Development/CPA-Clinical-Specialty-Program?lang=en-ca
 https://www.physiotherapy.asn.au/documentsfolder/advocacy_position_mental_health_2011.pdf
 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doctor_of_Physical_Therapy
 https://www.bonsecours.ie/contentFiles/Physiotherapy%20in%20Oncology.pdf
 http://www.sept.nhs.uk/our-services/essex/south-essex-mental-health-services/adults/physiotherapy/
 http://www.csp.org.uk/tagged/chartered-physiotherapists-mental-healthcare-cpmh
 http://courses.mq.edu.au/international/postgraduate/master/doctor-of-physiotherapy
 https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/physiotherapy-bsc-hons/entry-requirements/
 And …..

38. Try not to become a man of success,
but rather try to become a man of
value.
– Albert Einstein