pediatric physical therapists salary

Pediatric physical therapists are healthcare professionals who specialize in helping children with physical disabilities or injuries to improve their mobility and achieve greater independence. They work with infants, toddlers, children, and adolescents who have various conditions such as cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, developmental delays, and musculoskeletal injuries.

If you are considering a career in pediatric physical therapy, you may be wondering about the salary you can expect to earn. The average annual salary for pediatric physical therapists in the United States is $79,880, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). However, this figure can vary widely depending on factors such as education, experience, location, and type of employer.

Pediatric physical therapists are required to have a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from an accredited program, which typically takes three years to complete. They also need to be licensed in their state of practice. In addition, many pediatric physical therapists choose to pursue additional certifications or specializations in areas such as pediatric neurology, orthopedics, or sports medicine.

As with most professions, the more education and experience a pediatric physical therapist has, the higher their salary is likely to be. According to the BLS, physical therapists with a DPT degree earn significantly more than those with a Master of Physical Therapy (MPT) or Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy (BSPT) degree.

Another factor that can affect the salary of a pediatric physical therapist is the location of their practice. In general, salaries tend to be higher in urban areas than in rural areas. According to the BLS, the states with the highest average annual salaries for physical therapists are Nevada, Alaska, California, Texas, and New Jersey.

Pediatric physical therapists can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, and private clinics. Salaries can vary widely depending on the type of employer. For example, according to the BLS, physical therapists who work in nursing care facilities earn a higher average salary than those who work in home health care services. Pediatric physical therapists who work for government agencies or educational institutions may also receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

In conclusion, the salary of a pediatric physical therapist can vary depending on a variety of factors, including education, experience, location, and type of employer. While the average annual salary for pediatric physical therapists in the United States is $79,880, those with advanced degrees and years of experience can earn significantly more. If you have a passion for helping children improve their physical abilities and achieve their goals, a career in pediatric physical therapy may be both rewarding and financially lucrative.