The following information is from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides. Please visit the website for a more comprehensive breakdown of the data.
The following information is from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides. Please visit the website for a more comprehensive breakdown of the data.
Physical therapist assistants, sometimes called PTAs, work under the direction and supervision of physical therapists. They are directly involved in helping patients who are recovering from injuries and illnesses to regain movement and manage pain.
**Physical therapist aides is a different position. They do tasks that are indirectly related to patient care such as cleaning and setting up the treatment area, moving patients, and doing clerical duties.**
$69,480
$68,680
$66,150
$65,510
$65,480
$43,180
$43,500
$46,830
$48,290
$49,480
To become a physical therapist assistant, you need an associate’s degree from a physical therapist assistant program. All states require that programs are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education.
Next you will take the National Physical Therapy Exam. For some states, this is enough to gain employment as a physical therapist assistant. Other states have further requirements such as:
If you are interested in becoming a physical therapist, you will first need to earn a bachelor’s degree and then earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. The average annual salary is $90,170.
You will earn an associate’s degree and the program will take about 2 years.
The test is given by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.
Physical therapist assistants should be organized, keep accurate records, and follow written and verbal instructions carefully to ensure quality care.
Physical therapist assistants should enjoy helping people. They work with people who are in pain and must have empathy to help their patients.
Physical therapist assistants should be comfortable using their hands to provide manual therapy and therapeutic exercises.
Physical therapist assistants should be courteous and friendly since they spend much of their time interacting with patients, their families, and other healthcare practitioners.
Physical therapist assistants are frequently on their feet and moving as they work with their patients. They must often kneel, stoop, bend, and stand for long periods.