Have you ever wondered what physical therapists wear at work? Well, it is not a white lab coat and stethoscope. The physical therapist’s attire is all about comfort ability and flexibility, so they can provide hands on care to the patient. Physical therapist uniform also reflects the nature of their job that involves physical movement and exercises. In this blog we will describe what physical therapists wear for work and what are the important elements of their attire and why it matters.
Who are physical therapists and what do they do?
Physical therapists are also known as physiotherapists who are licensed professionals that help the patients to gain their mobility after their injury or some other condition. They promote physical activity of the patients through various ways such as:
- Exercise
- Massage
- Hot packs
- Ice
- Electric stimulation
- Soft tissue mobilization
- Joint mobilization
Physical therapists work with individuals of different ages and conditions such as:
- Back and neck injuries
- Arthritis
- Neurological disorders such as cerebral palsy
- Injuries
- Amputations
- Sprains, strains, and fractures.
Dress code recommendations for physical therapists
Comfortable and functional clothing
Physical therapist uniforms should be comfortable and flexible, allowing them to demonstrate exercise easily. Physical therapists should avoid clothes that are too tight or too loose. Common choices include polo shirts, athletic shirts, or scrubs. Choosing breathable fabrics is the best choice because its moisture wicking material will keep physical therapist comfortable during long shifts of physical activity.
Athletic or stretch pants
Physical therapist attire should consist of pants that are loose enough to allow movement freely and should be professional looking. Active wear, scrub pants or athletic leggings are best examples as these are designed for movement and comfort allowing the physical therapists to demonstrate exercise freely and comfortably.
Comfortable and supportive shoes
Physical therapists should wear shoes that are comfortable and supportive during long hours of shift. The shoes should provide prolong support in standing, walking and during physical activities. Some places also require closed toe shoes for safety reasons. The best example is athletic shoes or sneakers.
Lab coat or apron
Some physical therapists also wear lab coats or an apron. This gives a professional look and maintains cleanliness during therapy. In some healthcare settings the physical therapist wears a lab coat or apron where they may be working with medical equipment.
The No No’s of physical therapy dress code
Physical therapists should avoid the following dress code for many reasons such as:
- Sweatshirts: not appropriate for the healthcare settings because they are too casual.
- Sweatpants: sweatpants are loose which can create safety hazards.
- T shirts: for professional clinical environments, T-shirts are considered too casual, and they do not look professional
- Hats: Its better not to wear hats as it can obstruct vision or movement.
Tips on what physical therapist should wear at work
Physical therapists are licensed professionals that help patients to restore and maintain their physical function. Due to injuries or conditions, some patients have limited mobility or no mobility at all. Physical therapists help them to gain mobility through exercise and other methods. Therefore, it is important that physical therapists should dress in such a way that they look professional and comfortable. Tips on what physical therapist should wear are:
- Comfortable and breathable fabrics
- Clothes that opt for flexibility and ease of movement.
- Clothes should be professional and practical.
- Supportive and comfortable footwear.
- Prioritize cleanliness and hygiene.
- Minimal or no jeweler.
- Considers layers for temperature control.
- Maintain functional and professional bags.
- Personal hygiene and grooming.
- Respect for work environment dress code.
What is the dress code of physical therapist?
The best option for physical therapists is to wear scrubs as they are breathable and comfortable, allowing them to do their job comfortably, which consists of lots of physical movement. Other things physiotherapists should consider are comfortable shoes, professional top, and optional lab coats.
Do physical therapists have wear artificial nails?
According to WHO guidelines, physical therapists should not wear artificial nails.
Can physical therapist wear jewelry?
It is important for physiotherapists to wear clothes and accessories that are not distracting. Sticking to neutrals and avoiding bright colors is the best way to do so. It is acquired for the physical therapists to keep their jewelry or accessories simple, and it should not be distracting.
Conclusion
Physical therapists should dress up in such a way that they feel comfortable and perform their duty effectively. Physical therapist uniform should be a blend of comfort, flexibility, functionality and professionalism. Wearing clothes that are comfortable and breathable such as scrubs will help them to perform their duties without any difficulty. Physical therapists should avoid clothes that are too tight and can restrict their movement. Comfortable shoes should always be an option as they have to exercise and walk a lot. For physical therapist comfort should be priority and they should avoid accessories that are visually distracting. Professional attire will help foster trust and confidence in their patients.
If you are a travel nurse or want to become one, then join SkillGigs now which is an AI powered talent marketplace. Where you bid on the jobs that best suit your needs. So, what are you waiting for? Sign up now and refer a nurse friend too. We will send you a $25 git card for each nurse you send our way!
