To practice as a physical therapist in the U.S., you must earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from a Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education-accredited physical therapist education program and pass a state licensure exam. The length of professional DPT programs is typically three years.

Typically, in-patient physical therapy options will occur once or twice a week, but some therapists may also assign patients at-home exercises between appointments to keep progress consistent. These should be performed daily in between visits to your physical therapist.

The Basic Difference The most basic difference between physical therapy and occupational therapy is that a PT focuses on improving the patient's ability to move their body whereas an OT focuses on improving the patient's ability to perform activities of daily living.