Physiotherapist

What does a physiotherapist do? – Tasks and work environment

A physiotherapist works to prevent, assess, and treat disabilities that affect people's mobility and health. The profession involves developing individualized training programs, providing advice on ergonomics and lifestyle, and guiding patients in their rehabilitation, often in close collaboration with other healthcare professionals. The work environment varies between hospitals, health centers, private clinics, and sometimes patients' homes, and the work can be physically and mentally demanding. Physiotherapists meet patients of all ages and with diverse needs, from acute injuries to chronic conditions, which requires high sensitivity, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities.

Salary development over time

The salary development for physiotherapists has been positive over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,700 SEK per month, which increased to 37 200 SEK in 2023 and further to 39 100 SEK in 2024. This increase corresponds to a total rise of approximately 9.5% over the period, which is slightly higher than the average wage growth on the Swedish labor market. The increase is driven by a continued high demand for physiotherapists, especially in the public sector, as well as an increased focus on rehabilitation and preventive care. Although wage growth has been steady, differences still exist between regions and employers, as well as between men and women in the profession. The market is expected to remain stable, which can contribute to continued good wage development.

Physiotherapist salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 39 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,000 SEK/month (man, municipal sector)
• Highest salary: 47,800 SEK/month (woman, municipal sector, research education)
• Hourly wage: 235 SEK
• Women/men: Women earn 38 800 SEK, men 39 600 SEK (women 98% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salaries can vary between counties and employers

Education and qualifications

A physiotherapist is a licensed profession requiring a three-year university degree at undergraduate level. After graduating from the physiotherapy program, a license can be applied for from the National Board of Health and Welfare (Socialstyrelsen), which is a requirement to work in the profession. The education includes both theoretical components and practical placements, and there are opportunities for further specialization within various fields.

• Formal degree: Bachelor of Physiotherapy (180 hp, 3 years)
• License: Issued by Socialstyrelsen
• Internship: Included in the education (clinical placement)
• Further education: Opportunities for specialist training or master's/research degrees
• Prerequisites: General eligibility + specific eligibility in natural sciences

Common benefits and compensations

Physiotherapists are often covered by collective agreements and offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness grants, flexitime, and opportunities for professional development. Working within the public sector can also provide access to favorable vacation conditions and health insurance. Bonuses and special salary supplements may occur for working unsociable hours or within specific specialist areas.

Competition and challenges

The job market for physiotherapists is characterized by high demand but also recruitment difficulties, especially in certain regions and within the public sector. At the same time, the proportion of part-time work and staff turnover is relatively high, which may be due to workload and long waiting times for care. The profession demands high physical endurance and emotional competence, as meetings with patients can be challenging. Digitalization and new treatment methods are also changing the workday and require continuous professional development. Regional differences in salaries and working conditions can influence competition for the most attractive positions.

Tips for those who want to become a physiotherapist

To succeed as a physiotherapist, it is good to have a genuine interest in people's health and development, as well as strong empathy. Being communicative facilitates collaboration with both patients and colleagues, while structured planning makes it easier to manage multiple treatment programs simultaneously. Flexibility is key, as the work environment and patients' needs often vary from day to day. An analytical ability is needed to make correct assessments and tailor treatments to individual conditions. It is also valuable to build networks within the industry early on, for example through internships or summer jobs, as experience and contacts often lead to faster entry into the job market.

Key facts about Physiotherapist

• Education level: University degree (3 years, 180 hp)
• Work environment: Hospitals, health centers, private clinics, or home rehabilitation
• License: Required from Socialstyrelsen
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment, especially in the public sector
• Specialization: Possible to further educate within various areas

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a physiotherapist can choose to deepen their expertise through specialist training, for example in orthopedics, neurology, or sports medicine. There are also opportunities to work as a operations developer, clinic manager, or within research and teaching. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service (Arbetsförmedlingen), the prospects for employment are large, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over five years. The recruitment situation is described as paradoxical, with both recruitment difficulties and high staff turnover within the profession. Currently, there are 375 job openings in physiotherapy and physical therapy, reflecting a stable labor market and broad career opportunities for professionally trained physiotherapists.

Common questions about Physiotherapist

• What does a physiotherapist earn?
  - The average salary for a physiotherapist is 39 100 SEK per month. The hourly wage for hourly employees is 235 SEK.
• How long is the education to become a physiotherapist?
  - The education comprises 3 years at university or college and leads to a bachelor's degree.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries can vary between regions and employers, especially between public and private sectors.
• What is the highest salary for a physiotherapist?
  - The highest salary is 47,800 SEK per month and belongs to a woman with research education within the municipal sector.
• What are the future prospects for physiotherapists?
  - The demand for physiotherapists is high and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• Is a license required to work as a physiotherapist?
  - Yes, a license from Socialstyrelsen is a requirement to work as a physiotherapist in Sweden.
• What are the most common workplaces for physiotherapists?
  - The most common workplaces are hospitals, health centers, private clinics, and patients' homes.