A physiotherapist (also called a physical therapist) helps patients recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and improve their overall mobility.
Physiotherapy is essential for people with musculoskeletal problems, sports injuries, neurological conditions, and post-surgery rehabilitation.
Physiotherapy is a branch of healthcare that focuses on improving movement, relieving pain, and restoring physical function after injuries, surgeries, or medical conditions.
Let’s study it in detail below.
Who is a Physiotherapist?
A physiotherapist is a trained professional who evaluates, diagnoses, and treats physical problems caused by injury, illness, or disability.
They use techniques like exercises, manual therapy, electrotherapy, and rehabilitation programs to help patients regain movement and reduce pain.
Physiotherapists work with patients of all ages, from children to the elderly, in hospitals, clinics, sports centers, and rehabilitation centers.
Step-by-Step Guide to Become a Physiotherapist in India
Step 1: Complete Class 12th with Science
The first step is to pass Class 12th (10+2) with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB).
- Minimum Marks: 50% aggregate for general category; 40% for reserved category
- Biology is essential for admission into physiotherapy courses
Step 2: Choose the Right Physiotherapy Course
After Class 12th, you can join either an undergraduate degree or diploma in physiotherapy.
Popular physiotherapy courses in India include:
- BPT (Bachelor of Physiotherapy) – 4.5 years + 6 months internship
- Diploma in Physiotherapy – 2–3 years (less preferred than BPT)
Step 3: Admission to BPT Course
Most physiotherapy colleges in India admit students based on 10+2 marks or entrance exams. Some popular entrance exams for physiotherapy are:
- AIIMS BPT Entrance Exam
- JIPMER BPT Entrance Exam
- State-level or college-level exams
Eligibility for BPT
- 10+2 with PCB
- Minimum marks: 50% (general category)
Duration: 4.5 years academic + 6 months compulsory internship
During BPT, you study subjects like:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Biomechanics
- Exercise Therapy
- Electrotherapy
- Sports Physiotherapy
- Orthopedic and Neurological Physiotherapy
Step 4: Optional Postgraduate Courses (MPT)
After BPT, you can pursue MPT (Master of Physiotherapy) to specialize in areas like:
- Orthopedic Physiotherapy – Focus on bones, joints, and muscles
- Neurological Physiotherapy – Focus on nervous system disorders
- Cardiopulmonary Physiotherapy – For heart and lung patients
- Pediatric Physiotherapy – For children with physical disabilities
- Sports Physiotherapy – For athletes and sports injuries
Duration of MPT: 2 years
Eligibility: BPT degree + internship
Step 5: Registration
After completing BPT or MPT, you must register with the Indian Association of Physiotherapists (IAP) or your State Physiotherapy Council to legally practice in India.
Step 6: Gain Work Experience
After registration, you can work in:
- Hospitals
- Private physiotherapy clinics
- Sports academies or gyms
- Rehabilitation centers
- Home care services
Some physiotherapists also open their own private clinic after gaining experience.
Top Physiotherapy Courses in India
| Course | Duration | Eligibility | Level |
| BPT | 4.5 years + 6 months internship | 10+2 with PCB | Undergraduate |
| Diploma in Physiotherapy | 2–3 years | 10+2 with PCB | Diploma |
| MPT | 2 years | BPT + internship | Postgraduate |
| PhD in Physiotherapy | 3–5 years | MPT | Research / Academic |
Top Colleges for Physiotherapy in India
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi
- Jamia Hamdard University, New Delhi
- Manipal College of Health Professions, Manipal
- Seth GS Medical College, Mumbai
- Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore
- Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi
- National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru
- King George’s Medical University (KGMU), Lucknow
Physiotherapist Salary in India
Salary depends on experience, skills, and place of work.
| Level | Average Monthly Salary |
| Fresh BPT Graduate | ₹15,000 – ₹25,000 |
| MPT Graduate / Specialist | ₹25,000 – ₹50,000 |
| Experienced Physiotherapist | ₹50,000 – ₹1,50,000 |
| Private Clinic Owner | ₹1 lakh – ₹3 lakh+ |
Skills Required to Become a Physiotherapist
- Good knowledge of human anatomy and physiology
- Patience and empathy for patients
- Physical stamina and manual dexterity
- Good communication skills
- Problem-solving and observation skills
- Interest in rehabilitation and helping people recover
Career Options for Physiotherapists in India
- Hospitals – Government and private hospitals
- Private Clinics – Own clinic or join private practice
- Sports Teams – Work with athletes and sports academies
- Rehabilitation Centers – For post-surgery or disabled patients
- Fitness Centers / Gyms – Provide physiotherapy support
- Academic / Research – Work as a lecturer or researcher
- Home Care Physiotherapy – Treat patients at home
- Tele-Physiotherapy – Online consultations
Pros and Cons of Becoming a Physiotherapist
Pros:
- Growing demand for physiotherapy services in India
- Good career opportunities in hospitals, sports, and clinics
- Flexible work hours and private practice opportunities
- Job satisfaction by helping people recover
Cons:
- Requires physical effort and stamina
- Salary is moderate initially
- Continuous learning and specialization is necessary
Conclusion
Becoming a physiotherapist in India allows you to help people recover from injuries, improve mobility, and manage chronic conditions. Starting from BPT, you can choose to specialize further with MPT or gain experience in hospitals, sports centers, or private clinics.
With the increasing awareness of rehabilitation, fitness, and healthcare, the scope of physiotherapy in India is growing fast, making it a promising career choice for students interested in healthcare and patient care.
FAQs
Q1. How many years does it take to become a physiotherapist in India?
It takes around 4.5 to 6 years for BPT + internship. Postgraduate MPT adds 2 more years.
Q2. Can I become a physiotherapist after 12th without science subjects?
No. You must have Physics, Chemistry, and Biology in Class 12.
Q3. Is physiotherapy a good career in India?
Yes. With growing awareness of health and rehabilitation, physiotherapy is in high demand.
Q4. Can physiotherapists work in hospitals?
Yes. Physiotherapists can work in government hospitals, private hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, and sports academies.
Q5. Can physiotherapists open their own clinic?
Yes. After gaining experience, physiotherapists can open their own clinic or provide home physiotherapy services.