This article explains the fields of kinesiology and physical therapy including the similarities and differences between these areas of study, as well as the services offered by these healthcare providers.
What to Know About Kinesiology
Kinesiology is the study of body movement and physical activity, and how it affects the quality of life, health, and society as a whole.
A degree in kinesiology often includes coursework in:
Human anatomy and physiologyExercise physiologyMotor control and developmentSport and exercise psychologyBiomechanicsNutrition
Individuals with an undergraduate degree in kinesiology often have careers in sports and fitness. Examples include:
Exercise physiologistPersonal trainerSports & conditioning coachAthletic coachHealth and fitness consultantHealth club manager
People with kinesiology degrees often go on to graduate school for advanced degrees in the field of kinesiology or to pursue careers in other healthcare fields, such as:
Physical therapy Chiropractic medicine Occupational therapy Athletic training Exercise physiology Public health Respiratory therapy Speech-language pathology Human performance Health and wellness
People with a degree in kinesiology who want to work with clients or patients might choose to take an exam to become a registered kinesiotherapist through the Council on Professional Standards for Kinesiotherapy (COPSKT).
What to Know About Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is the study of human movement as it applies to overall health, rehabilitation of injury, fitness, and prevention of injury.
Cancer rehabilitationDriver rehabilitationErgonomic evaluationAdaptive sportsAmputeeFall preventionFunctional capacity evaluationAssistive technology professionalHealth coachAquaticsMultiple sclerosisOrthopedicsTai ChiWeight managementSeating and mobilityResearchCardiac rehabilitation
There are two tracks of study for people interested in working in the field of physical therapy—the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, which qualifies a person to take an exam to become a physical therapist, and the Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) degree, which qualifies a person to take an exam to become a physical therapist assistant.
A physical therapist with a DPT degree has received specialized training in:
BiologyHuman anatomy and physiologyExercise physiologyBiomechanicsKinesiologyNeurosciencePathologyPharmacologyCardiovascular and pulmonary healthEndocrine and metabolic healthMusculoskeletal systemEthics and values trainingEvidence-based practiceClinical reasoning
Physical therapist assistants work under the supervision and direction of a physical therapist and receive training in:
Human anatomy and physiologyBiomechanicsClinical pathologyNeuroscienceKinesiologyBehavioral sciencesEthics and values training
Which Treatment is Best for You?
There are several factors to consider when deciding whether you should see a kinesiologist or physical therapy provider for treatment.
When to See a Kinesiologist
If you’re looking to improve your fitness and live a healthier lifestyle, consider seeing a kinesiologist. A kinesiologist can also provide rehabilitation if you have a long-standing injury and want to help reduce your pain and improve your fitness. Kinesiology sessions focus on improving your mobility, agility, flexibility, and strength, with exercise interventions to improve overall function.
When to See a Physical Therapist
Physical therapists are trained to evaluate injuries and work with patients with a variety of medical conditions to develop comprehensive treatment plans to address functional limitations. While exercise is a large component of physical therapy intervention, these professionals also use many other modalities during treatment.
Examples include:
Heat and cold application Ultrasound Electrical stimulation Massage Manual stretching Joint mobilization Cold laser Kinesiology taping Iontophoresis (delivery of medication through the skin with electrical stimulation) Dry needling
Can Kinesiology and Physical Therapy Be Used Together?
In some settings, a person might receive services that can be provided by either a kinesiologist or a physical therapist, including:
Outpatient clinicsInpatient rehabilitation facilitiesCommunity living centersIn-home therapyTelehealth servicesSpecialty centers
Summary
Kinesiology and physical therapy are two health fields centered around human movement. Kinesiologists often work with people who are looking to improve their fitness and overall health. They also help rehabilitate people with chronic injuries that cause pain and affect function. Kinesiologists focus on improving flexibility, agility, mobility, and strength, through exercise interventions.
Physical therapists evaluate injuries and rehabilitate people with a wide variety of medical conditions. These professionals use many different types of treatment (including exercise) to help restore function.
Physical therapy services are typically covered by insurance, while a person might have to pay out-of-pocket for kinesiology services.
A Word From Verywell
Kinesiologists and physical therapists can help you improve function and quality of life after injury or if you are living with chronic illness. If you aren’t sure which one you should see, talk to your primary healthcare provider. Or, schedule an initial assessment and let the professionals decide if their services are appropriate for your condition and goals. If they aren’t, they will help you find the treatment you need.
