Jobs in physiology can be found in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, research labs, and medical schools or universities. A physiologist is a highly skilled member of the allied health field. Physiologists typically have a Master’s or Doctorate degree in physiology from an accredited institution.
Professionals in physiology need to understand the internal body’s mechanisms in order to keep an individual alive and functioning. Cardiology, neurology, respiratory, and exercise physiology are examples of specializations in physiology. Each career path necessitates specialized training in the desired field.
Physiology jobs focus on the body functions that are relevant to the field of study. A physiologist typically assists patients in diagnosing and treating specific ailments or injuries in order to help them regain physical independence. Some physiology jobs, such as cardiac physiologists, require extensive knowledge of invasive procedures, such as pacemaker implantation or electrophysiology, which involves placing a cardiac catheter to measure the heart’s electrical impulses. Their job is to check for problems or defects in the heart and its function, as well as to assist in the recovery of cardiac incidents.
The science of physiology Neurology jobs focus on the nervous system, and they frequently work with people who have dementia, epilepsy, or strokes. EEGs, or electroencephalography, are used to record electrical brain activity, and EMGs, or electromyography, and NCSs, or nerve conduction studies, are used to record and assess nerve and muscle function. They can also test patients during surgery to reduce the risk of complications such as paralysis.
Respiratory physiology jobs help assess and monitor illnesses and diseases that can make it difficult to breathe. COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema, asthma, and infant respiratory distress syndrome are all common conditions they work with. A respiratory physiologist will typically perform lung function tests, sleep studies, and blood gas analyses, as well as participate in treatment protocols to help the patient regain normal breathing patterns.
In order to regain health or physical conditioning, physiology jobs in exercise or sports monitor and evaluate cardiovascular and physical abilities. Typically, the exercise physiologist implements exercise or fitness routines that are tailored to the patient’s specific goals. Like any other type of physiologist, they collaborate with a team of healthcare professionals to ensure that physical abilities and health goals are met through a comprehensive therapeutic program.