Step 1: Research a Career
Career Chosen: Physical Therapist
Description of the Career: A physical therapist (PT) is a healthcare professional who helps patients improve their movement and manage pain. Using a variety of treatment techniques and exercises, physical therapists work with individuals facing challenges after injury, surgery, or chronic conditions, to restore function and enhance quality of life.
Sources:
- Nationwide Children's Hospital: Physical Therapy
- Science Buddies: Physical Therapy Careers
Step 2: Create a Career Bio
Biography of a Physical Therapist: Dr. Emily Johnson
Dr. Emily Johnson is a licensed physical therapist with over ten years of experience in outpatient rehabilitation. She earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) from the University of Southern California, where she excelled in coursework focusing on orthopedics and sports medicine.
In her role at a community rehabilitation center, Dr. Johnson specializes in treating athletes recovering from injuries and patients with chronic pain conditions. Her approach is deeply rooted in evidence-based practice, combining manual therapy techniques with customized exercise programs to help her patients regain mobility and strength.
Dr. Johnson believes that her profession is socially important because it not only helps individuals physically recover but also empowers them to lead healthier and more active lives. By facilitating rehabilitation, she plays a critical role in improving overall patient wellness and functioning, ultimately enhancing their quality of life.
Source:
Step 3: Write a Referral Letter
[Your Practice Name]
[Your Practice Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[Date]
Dr. Emily Johnson
[Rehabilitation Center Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Dear Dr. Johnson,
I am writing to refer my patient, Ms. Sarah Thompson, a 34-year-old female who has been experiencing persistent discomfort in her lower back and limitations in mobility following a recent automobile accident. During her evaluations, she has reported significant pain (6/10 on the pain scale) localized in the lumbar region that worsens with prolonged sitting and certain movements, such as bending or lifting.
Upon examination, it was noted that she exhibits limited range of motion in her lumbar spine and muscle tightness in her hamstrings and lower back. Additionally, she has indicated that her symptoms have begun to affect her daily activities and overall quality of life, as she struggles with routine tasks.
Given your expertise in physical therapy and rehabilitation strategies, I believe you would provide valuable insight into diagnosing the underlying issues and developing a comprehensive care plan tailored to her needs. Your approach to treating such cases with a blend of manual therapy and an exercise regimen could significantly benefit Ms. Thompson's recovery process.
Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information regarding her condition or our previous medical interventions.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your evaluation and recommendations.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Practice Name]
[Contact Information]
This setup summarizes the tasks while ensuring clarity about the career and includes a potential referral letter relevant to the discipline of physical therapy.