Physical therapists and athletic trainers both work with people who sustained injuries from sports. However, the similarities between the two end there. Physical therapists and athletic trainers require different certifications and educational attainment, and have work place settings that are worlds apart.

Physical therapists are health care professionals who help patients to restore, develop and maintain movement and physical functions. They work with people of all ages, occupations and fitness levels who have acute or chronic injuries and illnesses. Athletic trainers, on the other hand, help athletes and other physically active individuals to rehabilitate and manage their injuries. They are also trained to recognize and prevent injuries that may be caused by physical activity. South Florida, home of the South Florida Bulls one of the Men's College basketball teams in the US enjoys the services of both.

Education

Physical therapists need to have a bachelor's degree and an advanced degree from an accredited physical therapy course. Physical therapists are required to finish classes in kinesiology, anatomy, neuroscience, pharmacology, diagnostics, biology, chemistry, health, and human growth and development. Athletic trainers must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited program and pass a certification test. Athletic trainer course requirements include anatomy, first aid, physiology, biomechanics and nutrition.

Working Environments

Physical therapists work in a clinical setting like hospitals, doctor's offices and physical therapy centers. Athletic trainers are seen in sports medicine clinics, and high school, college and university athletic departments. Athletic trainers with advanced degrees may even end up working with sports teams.

Physical Therapist Work

South Florida orthopaedic physical therapists work regular office hours. They work with patients individually over a period that can range from weeks to months. They help patients develop and perform exercises to improve muscle strength, range of motion, endurance, coordination and motor skills. Heat therapy, water therapy, electrical simulation and ultrasound are the tools that physical therapists use in the rehabilitation of their patients.

Athletic Trainer Work

Athletic trainers have more flexible working hours than South Florida orthopaedics physical therapists, but they are often required long hours and may even work in weekends. They tape, bandage and brace athletes for injury rehabilitation and prevention. Typically, athletic trainers are the first ones on the scene of a sports injury and may then proceed to consult with a physician to diagnose and treat the injury of the athlete.

There is one other similarity between the two that needs to be mentioned. Both athletic trainers and South Florida orthopedics physical therapists need to be physically fit to perform their jobs. You may consult with your doctor to know which professional you need to work with for your injury. Read more on injury rehabilitation from sportsmedicine.about.com/lr/injury_rehab/67336/3/.