20 PT Specialties (You Might Not Have Heard Of)

Physical therapy is a dynamic and ever-expanding field.

While many people are familiar with common areas like orthopedics and sports medicine, there are numerous other specializations where physical therapists and assistants can make a significant impact. As we celebrate National Physical Therapy Month this October, we want to highlight some of these exciting career paths. 

If you're a PT or PTA looking to broaden your professional horizons, this list is for you. Exploring a new specialty can reignite your passion, open up new opportunities, and allow you to serve a unique patient population. Here are 20 physical therapy specialties you may not have heard of but should definitely know about. 

Specialties focused on unique populations 

1. Animal and canine rehabilitation 

Just like humans, animals can suffer from injuries and mobility issues. In this specialty, PTs work with animals, often alongside veterinarians, to help them recover from surgery, manage chronic conditions like arthritis, and improve their overall quality of life. This is a rewarding path for therapists who love animals. 

2. Performing arts 

Dancers, musicians, and other performers place unique demands on their bodies. A PT specializing in the performing arts understands these specific stresses and helps artists prevent injuries, recover from them, and optimize their performance. It's a role that combines a deep knowledge of biomechanics with an appreciation for the arts. 

3. Military and veterans' health 

Physical therapists in the military work with active-duty service members to maintain peak physical condition and recover from combat-related injuries. In veterans' health, therapists address the long-term effects of service, including musculoskeletal injuries, amputations, and traumatic brain injuries, providing crucial support for those who have served. 

Related CEU course for PT professionals: An Introduction to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) for Therapy Professionals 

4. Obesity and weight management 

This specialty focuses on creating safe and effective exercise programs for individuals who are overweight or obese. Therapists help clients improve their mobility, manage weight-related health conditions, and build healthier habits in a supportive environment. 

Specialties for chronic and complex conditions 

5. Lymphedema 

Lymphedema is a chronic condition characterized by swelling, often occurring after cancer treatment. Certified Lymphedema Therapists (CLTs) use specialized techniques like manual lymphatic drainage and compression therapy to manage symptoms and improve patients' comfort and function. 

Related CEU course for PT professionals: Therapeutic Interventions for Lymphedema 

6. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Dysfunction 

TMJ disorders can cause significant pain in the jaw and face. Therapists in this niche use manual therapy, exercises, and education to alleviate pain, restore normal jaw movement, and improve a patient's ability to eat and speak comfortably. 

7. Vestibular rehabilitation 

For patients experiencing dizziness, vertigo, and balance problems, vestibular rehabilitation can be life changing. PTs design exercises to help the brain compensate for inner ear deficits, reducing symptoms and restoring stability. 

8. Burn care and wound management 

Working in burn units or wound care centers, these specialized therapists help patients recover from severe skin injuries. Treatment involves managing scars, maintaining joint mobility through stretching and splinting, and helping patients regain function as they heal. 

Related CEU course for PT professionals: Wound Care for the Therapist: How to Assess, Investigate, and Treat a Pressure Injury 

9. Pelvic health 

This growing field addresses issues related to the pelvic floor, including incontinence, pelvic pain, and postpartum recovery. Pelvic health therapists provide discreet and effective treatments that significantly improve their patients' quality of life. 

10. Oncology 

Physical therapists in oncology support patients through every stage of cancer treatment and recovery. They help manage treatment side effects like fatigue and weakness, restore mobility after surgery, and design exercise programs to improve overall well-being. 

Environment-specific specialties 

11. Aquatic therapy 

Aquatic therapy uses the properties of water to facilitate healing. The buoyancy of water reduces stress on joints, making it an ideal environment for patients with arthritis, orthopedic injuries, or neurological conditions to build strength and improve movement. 

Related CEU course for PT professionals: Introduction to Aquatic Therapy 

12. Industrial and occupational health 

Also known as ergonomics, this specialty focuses on preventing workplace injuries. Therapists assess workstations, recommend modifications, and teach employees proper body mechanics to reduce physical strain and create a safer work environment. 

13. Emergency department physical therapy 

PTs in the emergency department play a crucial role in assessing patients with musculoskeletal issues. They help determine if a patient can be safely discharged home, provide immediate treatment, and offer education to prevent future problems, ultimately reducing hospital admissions. 

14. Hippotherapy 

This unique specialty uses the movement of a horse as a therapeutic tool. It is particularly effective for patients with neuromuscular disorders like cerebral palsy or multiple sclerosis. The horse's gait provides sensory input that can improve a patient's balance, strength, and coordination. 

Advanced practice and diagnostic specialties 

15. Electrophysiologic physical therapy 

Clinical electrophysiologic specialists use techniques like electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies to evaluate nerve and muscle function. This diagnostic role helps pinpoint the cause of weakness, numbness, and pain, guiding more precise treatment plans. 

16. Imaging 

Some PTs pursue advanced training to become proficient in musculoskeletal diagnostic ultrasound. This allows them to visualize muscles, tendons, and ligaments in real-time to diagnose injuries and guide interventions like dry needling. 

17. Telehealth 

While not a clinical specialty itself, telehealth has become a distinct service delivery model. Therapists use digital communication to assess patients, guide them through exercises, and provide education remotely, increasing access to care for people in rural areas or with mobility challenges. 

Related CEU course for PT professionals: Getting Started with Telehealth 

Holistic and system-wide approaches 

18. Lifestyle medicine 

This emerging field focuses on using therapeutic lifestyle interventions, such as a whole-food, plant-predominant diet, regular physical activity, and stress management, to treat chronic conditions. PTs are well-positioned to lead in this area by helping patients adopt and maintain healthy habits. 

19. Health and wellness coaching 

Moving beyond traditional rehabilitation, PTs can act as wellness coaches. They partner with clients to help them achieve their broader health goals, whether it's running a marathon, improving nutrition, or reducing stress. 

20. Global health 

Physical therapists in global health work in underserved communities around the world. They may provide direct patient care, train local healthcare workers, or help develop sustainable rehabilitation programs to address the needs of diverse populations. 

Expand your professional horizons 

As the field of physical therapy continues to evolve, so do the opportunities for therapists to grow and specialize. Whether you're drawn to working with a unique patient population or mastering a new technique, exploring a specialty can be a fulfilling next step in your career. 

For 20 years, HomeCEU has provided high-quality continuing education to help therapy professionals like you achieve their goals. Ready to explore a new path? Browse our extensive course catalog to find your next passion.