How to Become a Physical Therapy Assistant – Salary & Requirements for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Share

The prevalence of musculoskeletal conditions has continued to become a formidable challenge, imposing a significant strain on individuals and healthcare systems across the globe. They are considered the highest contributor to the global need for rehabilitation, with musculoskeletal disorders leading the global demand for rehabilitation, particularly among children and two-thirds of adults (World Health Organization, n.d.). As such, physical therapy is a transformative discipline designed to help patients improve their quality of life.

At the heart of the physical therapy profession lies the indispensable role of a physical therapy assistant, a career that emphasizes preventive care and promotes long-term physical well-being. Moreover, the demand for physical therapy assistants is on the rise. In 2022, there are 10,096 enrolled PTA students in accredited physical therapy institutions (Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education, n.d.).

If you have a deep-rooted desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives, knowing how to become a physical therapy assistant may be a vital step towards achieving a fulfilling career in the healthcare field. Our group of experts at Research.com has created this guide to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the roles, responsibilities, skills, and career paths of a physical therapy assistant.

Physical Therapy Careers Table of Contents

1. Why pursue a career in physical therapy?
2. Physical Therapy Career Outlook
3. Required Skills for Physical Therapist Assistant
4. How to Start Your Career in Physical Therapy
5. How can I advance my career in physical therapy?
6. What emerging technologies are influencing physical therapy practice?
7. Alternative Career Options for Physical Therapist Assistant
8. How can physical therapy assistants leverage mentorship and professional networks?
9. What are the educational opportunities for transitioning from physical therapy assistant to advanced healthcare roles?
10. How Can Data Science Innovations Enhance Personalized Physical Therapy Outcomes?
11. How Can Telehealth Transform the Role of Physical Therapy Assistants?
12. Can Artificial Intelligence Elevate Physical Therapy Practices?
13. How Do Legal and Ethical Considerations Impact a PTA’s Career?
14. Exploring Advanced Healthcare Administration Pathways for Physical Therapy Assistants
15. Examining Behavioral Health Integration for PTAs
16. Can Supplementary Certifications Amplify Career Opportunities for PTAs?
17. What other healthcare fields can physical therapy assistants explore?

Why pursue a career in physical therapy?

Choosing a career in physical therapy offers a unique opportunity to combine medical knowledge, hands-on care, and compassion to make a difference in people’s lives. Whether one has an innate desire to help others, an interest in human anatomy and biology, or a wish to be a part of a rapidly growing industry, physical therapy can be a satisfying and rewarding career choice.

From helping individuals recover from injuries or surgeries to supporting those with chronic conditions or disabilities, a physical therapy assistant will provide treatments, exercises, and therapeutic techniques to improve patients’ mobility, strength, and overall physical function. Additionally, PTAs often assist in documenting patient records and communicating with other healthcare professionals involved in the patient’s care, ensuring a comprehensive and coordinated approach to treatment.

As a certified physical therapy assistant, you will have the opportunity to work in various settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, clinics, and home health agencies, to assist licensed physical therapists in delivering hands-on care to patients. The number of people employed as physical therapist assistants and aides has been growing at a rate of 5.9%, from 99,650 people in 2019 to 105,533 people in 2020 (Data USA, n.d.).

Physical Therapy Career Outlook

The baby boomer generation, born between 1946 and 1964, is now reaching retirement age. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, by 2030, all baby boomers will be older than 65. This demographic shift directly translates into an increased demand for physical therapy services to address age-related conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and mobility limitations (United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022). In addition, physical therapy identifies and treats musculoskeletal problems in people of all ages and abilities.

Physical therapists and physical therapy assistants are professionals who ensure the highest quality of care to patients who are undergoing physical rehabilitation. The employment of physical therapists is projected to grow by 17 percent from 2021 to 2031, while 24 percent for physical therapist assistants (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022).

Apart from advanced career opportunities, physical therapy also offers competitive salary advancement opportunities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for physical therapists was $95,620 in May 2021, while physical therapy assistants have a median annual salary of $61,180.

One of the steps on how to become a physical therapist assistant is having physical therapy assistant certifications and a license to assist licensed physical therapists. On the other hand, physical therapists can advance into clinical supervisory roles, research, academia, or even start their own private practices according to their experience and specialization.

Required Skills for Physical Therapy Assistant

A physical therapy assistant plays a crucial role in the healthcare system, working alongside physical therapists and other healthcare professionals to help patients regain mobility, manage pain, and improve their overall quality of life. As the demand for these skilled professionals continues to grow, it is essential to understand the required skills to take a step on how to become a physical therapist assistant.

Essential Skills for Physical Therapy Assistant

• Manual therapy. Manual therapy is an essential skill set for physical therapy assistants due to its impact on patient outcomes and treatment effectiveness. Manual therapy refers to hands-on techniques used to assess, diagnose, and treat musculoskeletal conditions. Physical therapy assistants can provide targeted interventions that address the root causes of patients’ pain, dysfunction, and mobility limitations.
• Knowledge of exercise adaptive tools and equipment. Exercise adaptive tools and equipment are designed to assist individuals with limited mobility or physical impairments in performing exercises safely and effectively. Physical therapy assistants need to be familiar with various adaptive tools, such as resistance bands, stability balls, balance boards, and assistive devices like crutches or walkers. These tools enable patients to engage in therapeutic exercises that target specific muscle groups, improve range of motion, and enhance strength and flexibility. In addition, exercise equipment such as treadmills, stationary bikes, and weight machines provide controlled environments for patients to perform specific exercises and progress their rehabilitation. A physical therapy assistant needs to know the importance of new technology, as well as understand the principles of resistance training and cardiovascular conditioning (Owens, et al., 2020).
• Anatomy. Anatomy provides the foundational understanding of the body’s musculoskeletal system, including bones, muscles, joints, and nerves. This knowledge enables physical therapy assistants to accurately identify specific anatomical structures that may be affected by injuries or conditions, such as fractures, sprains, or nerve impingements.  As healthcare professionals who work closely with patients recovering from injuries, surgeries, or illnesses, physical therapy assistants must possess a comprehensive knowledge of anatomy to effectively assess, treat, and support their patients’ rehabilitation process. If you’re interested in learning more about human anatomy, consider the best RN to BSN online programs, in addition to obtaining a physical therapy degree.

General Skills for Physical Therapy Assistant

• Communication. Effective communication skill is a vital requirement for physical therapy assistants due to the nature of their role in supporting patients and collaborating with other healthcare professionals. According to a study conducted by Ahlsen and Nilsen (2022), patients want to share their stories and feel heard and respected when physical therapists listen to them, improving the relationship between patients and healthcare professionals. To excel in this role, it is essential to possess strong verbal and written communication abilities, with the ability to actively listen and respond appropriately.
• Organization skills. A physical therapy assistant is responsible for managing multiple tasks and activities simultaneously, including clinical and administrative duties. Effective organizational skills enable physical therapy assistants to stay on top of these tasks, ensuring that appointments are scheduled appropriately, treatment plans are followed, and accurate medical records are maintained. Moreover, physical therapy assistants must be able to prioritize their workload and manage their time efficiently to accommodate a diverse range of patients.
• Computer skills. Computer skills are essential for physical therapy assistants due to the increasing integration of technology in healthcare settings. As the field of physical therapy continues to evolve, computers have become an integral tool for managing patient records, accessing medical databases, and conducting research. In addition, proficient computer skills are vital for utilizing specialized software and applications that assist in creating treatment plans, monitoring progress, and analyzing data.

How to Start Your Career in Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a discipline that understands the complexities of the human body and its movement. Whether it is recovering from a debilitating injury, managing a chronic condition, or post-surgery rehabilitation, physical therapy plays a pivotal role in restoring a person’s physical function. One common entry point into the world of physical therapy is by pursuing a career as a physical therapy assistant.

To start your career in physical therapy, you must complete an associate’s degree in physical therapy assistant from an accredited institution by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (American Physical Therapy Association, n.d.). As such, an accreditation signifies that the program is aligned with the established educational requirements for a physical therapist assistant degree and adequately equips the students to face the challenges that come with the profession.

In addition, attending physical therapy assistant schooling will equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills to efficiently assist licensed physical therapists in delivering appropriate patient care. An associate program in PTA typically takes approximately two years to finish. Moreover, studying physical therapy may take a while, so it is important to consider how long it takes to become a physical therapist assistant.

Upon completion of the program, it is necessary to pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for physical therapy assistants to obtain a state license and practice lawfully.  According to the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy, 80% of first-time candidates who graduated from US-Accredited programs passed the Physical Therapy Assistant Examination in 2022, while 78% passed the examination in 2021.

What can I do with an Associate’s Degree in Physical Therapy?

Physical Therapy Assistant

A physical therapy assistant is a licensed healthcare provider who works under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist to provide patient care and implement treatment plans for those suffering from conditions affecting their mobility. They help physical therapists carry out rehabilitation plans so patients regain strength, recover from surgery, improve athletic performance, or heal from an injury or disease.

Median Salary: $52,000

Occupational Therapy Assistant

The occupational therapy career outlook looks promising with an estimated growth of 14% until 2031 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023). Included in this growth are occupational therapy assistants. They are the healthcare professionals who work under the supervision of an occupational therapist to help individuals overcome challenges in performing activities of daily living due to physical, cognitive, developmental, or emotional conditions. OTAs play a vital role in assisting patients to regain independence, develop necessary skills, and improve their overall quality of life.

Median Salary: $33,560

What can I do with a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Therapy?

Athletics Trainer

An athletic trainer, also known as a sports trainer or athletic therapist, is a healthcare professional who specializes in the prevention, assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation of injuries and illnesses related to physical activity and sports. Their primary role is to ensure the well-being and safety of athletes.

Median Salary: $48,420

Exercise Physiologists

Exercise physiologists are professionals who specialize in the study of how exercise and physical activity impact the human body, particularly in relation to health, fitness, and performance. They apply their knowledge of physiology, anatomy, and exercise science to develop exercise programs, assess individuals’ fitness levels, and promote optimal health and performance.

Median Salary: $47,940

Can you get a physical therapy job with just a certificate?

While the desire to help others and work in the field of physical therapy is admirable, pursuing a career as a physical therapy assistant and a physical therapist without a degree is not a viable option. The extensive knowledge, skills, and competencies required to excel in this profession are best obtained through a structured education program.

Completing a degree in physical therapy assistance provides the foundation necessary to deliver safe, effective, and high-quality care to patients, and opens doors to various career opportunities within the field. Therefore, aspiring physical therapy assistants should prioritize obtaining the necessary education and qualifications to embark on a successful and rewarding career in this vital healthcare profession.

How can I advance my career in physical therapy?

Physical therapy provides numerous opportunities for personal and professional advancement, as well as the ability to positively influence patients’ lives. If you are passionate about enhancing your career in physical therapy, pursuing higher education can unlock a world of possibilities.

A master’s degree in physical therapy builds upon the foundation of a bachelor’s degree, particularly in the same field. Typically, this program takes approximately two years of full-time study to complete. During this time, you will deepen your knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, therapeutic interventions, and evidence-based practice. Pursuing a master’s degree equips you with the necessary expertise to work as a licensed physical therapist, diagnosing and treating patients with a wide range of conditions.

On the other hand, a doctor of physical therapy degree, known as a DPT, is the highest level of education in the field. It provides a comprehensive education encompassing advanced clinical skills, research competencies, and leadership qualities. The coursework includes advanced topics such as pharmacology, differential diagnosis, health promotion, and advanced rehabilitation techniques. According to Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (n.d.), there are 37,306 enrolled physical therapy students in 2022.

Pursuing a master’s or doctorate degree related to physical therapy can provide a substantial boost to your professional growth. These degrees provide an in-depth understanding of the latest research and advanced clinical skills required to thrive in the healthcare field, allowing you to acquire specialized skills, broaden your knowledge base, and explore new opportunities in research, teaching, and leadership.

What can I do with a Master’s in Physical Therapy?

Physician Assistant

A physician assistant is a skilled healthcare professional who works under the supervision of a licensed physician. They are trained to provide comprehensive medical care and play a crucial role in delivering high-quality healthcare services. The responsibilities of a physician assistant encompass a wide range of tasks, including conducting physical exams, diagnosing and treating illnesses, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, prescribing medications, assisting in surgeries, and providing patient education and counseling.

Median Salary: $121,530

Occupational Therapist

Occupational therapists are healthcare professionals who specialize in helping individuals of all ages overcome physical, cognitive, developmental, or emotional challenges that may affect their ability to engage in meaningful activities or occupations. They assess their clients’ needs, develop personalized treatment plans, and provide interventions to enhance their functional independence and well-being.

Median Salary: $85,570

Respiratory Physiologist

A respiratory physiologist, also known as a pulmonary physiologist or respiratory therapist, is a healthcare professional who specializes in studying and assessing the functioning of the respiratory system. They work with individuals who have respiratory conditions or disorders to evaluate lung function, administer respiratory therapies, and develop treatment plans.

Median Salary: $61,830

What kind of job can I get with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy?

Physical Therapist

Physical therapists are healthcare professionals who specialize in helping individuals recover, regain mobility, and improve physical function following injury, surgery, illness, or other physical impairments. They play a crucial role in the rehabilitation and management of musculoskeletal, neurological, cardiopulmonary, and orthopedic conditions. PTs assess their patients’ physical abilities, create individualized treatment plans, and provide interventions aimed at reducing pain, restoring movement, and enhancing overall quality of life.

Median Salary: $95,620

Pediatric Physical Therapist

Pediatric physical therapists specialize in providing rehabilitative care and promoting the development of children from infancy through adolescence. They assess children’s motor skills, balance, coordination, and overall physical abilities to identify areas of concern and develop appropriate treatment plans. Pediatric physical therapists work closely with children and their families to set functional goals and implement interventions aimed at improving mobility, strength, endurance, and motor function.

Median Salary: $81,425

Which certification is best for physical therapy?

Physical therapy is an ever-evolving field that requires dedication, knowledge, and a commitment to continuous learning. While obtaining a degree in physical therapy is essential to becoming a licensed practitioner, pursuing postgraduate certifications can further enhance your expertise and open doors to advanced career opportunities. These certifications provide opportunities for specialization within specific areas of practice, allowing practitioners to excel in their chosen niche and provide more specialized care to their patients. A physical therapy assistant can also take the shortest RN to MSN online program to further advance their career in healthcare.

There are several graduate certifications to pursue if you want specialize in a specific field. If you would want to know how long it takes to become a pt assistant, you may want to consider the additional time required to acquire certifications. Below are some of the graduate certifications for those seeking to further enhance their knowledge and skills.

• Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
• Certification in Orthopedic Manual Therapy (COMT)
• Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS)

What emerging technologies are influencing physical therapy practice?

• Telehealth and Remote Therapy Tools: Telehealth platforms now enable physical therapists and PTAs to provide virtual consultations, monitor progress, and adjust treatment plans remotely, making therapy accessible to patients in rural or underserved areas.
• Wearable Health Technology: Devices like fitness trackers and motion sensors allow PTAs to monitor patients’ physical activity and movements in real time, enabling data-driven adjustments to rehabilitation exercises and helping track recovery milestones outside of clinic visits.
• Virtual Reality (VR) for Pain Management and Mobility Training: VR technology is increasingly used in physical therapy to create immersive rehabilitation environments that can help reduce pain perception, improve mobility, and motivate patients through engaging simulations.
• AI and Machine Learning in Personalized Treatment Plans: AI tools can analyze large data sets from patient histories to suggest optimized treatment paths, helping PTAs personalize therapy based on individual needs and likely outcomes.

These innovations are reshaping physical therapy by enhancing accessibility, improving data accuracy, and supporting more personalized and effective patient care.

Alternative Career Options for Physical Therapy Assistant

According to the American Physical Therapy Association (n.d.), approximately 72% of PTAs work in hospitals or privately-owned physical therapy practices. Others work in home health, schools, and rehab units. Approximately 28% of PTAs work part-time. The current employment landscape presents physical therapy assistants with a range of promising prospects to expand their professional horizons and utilize their skills. While working with licensed physical therapists and assisting patients can be immensely gratifying, exploring alternative career paths can allow physical therapy assistants to venture into new and diverse opportunities.

What else can a physical therapy assistant do?

Nurse. Physical therapy assistants and nurses have distinct roles in healthcare that involve promoting wellness, fitness, and transitions for patients. However, it is possible for a physical therapy assistant to pursue a career transition into nursing. This process requires additional education and training, such as taking the shortest nurse practitioner programs, that can offer new professional opportunities and an expanded scope of practice in the field of healthcare. In addition, physical therapy assistants can leverage their previous experience and knowledge in healthcare while expanding their scope of practice. The combination of their physical therapy background and nursing expertise can be particularly valuable in areas, such as orthopedic nursing, rehabilitation nursing, or geriatric care, which can also help get a more competitive registered nurse average pay. Moreover, they can take their nursing education a step further, so they can have more leverage to negotiate a masters degree in nursing salary.

Entrepreneur. Beyond the traditional clinical roles, physical therapy assistants venturing into entrepreneurship may offer new possibilities for professional growth. The notion of becoming an entrepreneur entails creating and managing a business or venture that provides specialized therapeutic services, products, or solutions. In addition, physical therapy assistants possess valuable clinical knowledge, hands-on experience, and a deep understanding of patient care, making them well-positioned to embark on entrepreneurial ventures within the realm of physical therapy.

Researcher. While the primary focus of physical therapy assistants lies in direct patient care and support, there is an opportunity for PTAs to contribute to the scientific community through research endeavors. Similar to other professions in healthcare, such as nurse practitioners, being able to participate in transformative research is one of nurse practitioner career goals. Physical therapy assistants can play a unique role in investigating and expanding our understanding of various clinical issues, such as the effectiveness of interventions, outcomes measurement, and evidence-based decision-making. The integration of research and practice allows PTAs to enhance their own knowledge and collaborate with healthcare professionals to drive improvements in patient care. Through collaboration and dedication, physical therapy assistants have the potential to make valuable contributions to the scientific community and enhance the quality of patient care.

How can physical therapy assistants leverage mentorship and professional networks?

Building a robust professional network and engaging with experienced mentors can accelerate career advancement by connecting PTAs with industry insights and leadership opportunities. Strategic networking through professional associations, conferences, and digital platforms provides access to innovative practices and potential career pathways that extend beyond clinical roles. Furthermore, targeted executive education—such as enrolling in an affordable online MBA healthcare management program—can enhance strategic decision-making and administrative competencies. Proactively seeking mentorship and cultivating relationships with healthcare leaders ensures continuous professional growth and helps PTAs effectively navigate the evolving healthcare landscape.

What are the educational opportunities for transitioning from physical therapy assistant to advanced healthcare roles?

For physical therapy assistants (PTAs) aspiring to grow beyond their current roles, pursuing advanced educational opportunities can open doors to higher-paying and more specialized positions within the healthcare industry. Leveraging the foundational knowledge and experience gained as a PTA, professionals can transition into roles such as a physical therapist, physician assistant, or healthcare administrator.

One common pathway is earning a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, which allows PTAs to become licensed physical therapists with greater responsibilities and earning potential. Additionally, transitioning to a physician assistant (PA) role is an excellent option for those interested in broader medical responsibilities, including diagnosing and treating patients. Enrolling in physician assistant online programs can provide the flexibility to continue working while completing the necessary education.

Healthcare administration is another promising path, enabling PTAs to move into leadership roles. Advanced degrees such as a Master’s in Healthcare Administration (MHA) or an MBA with a focus on healthcare can equip PTAs with the skills to oversee operations in rehabilitation centers, hospitals, or private practices.

These educational opportunities not only enhance career prospects but also allow PTAs to diversify their expertise and contribute to the healthcare field in more impactful ways. By investing in higher education, PTAs can position themselves for long-term success and leadership in the healthcare industry.

How Can Data Science Innovations Enhance Personalized Physical Therapy Outcomes?

Leveraging advanced data science techniques can refine treatment protocols and elevate patient outcomes by enabling precision in care management. By analyzing patient data, physical therapy assistants can identify trends and tailor rehabilitation programs to individual needs, ensuring more effective interventions and improved recovery rates. Furthermore, integrating computational insights into daily practices boosts decision-making efficiency and facilitates early detection of potential complications. Pursuing specialized education, such as obtaining a masters in bioinformatics online, equips professionals with the analytical skills to implement these innovations and drive evidence-based practices in personalized physical therapy.

How Can Telehealth Transform the Role of Physical Therapy Assistants?

The rapid expansion of telehealth has redefined patient care delivery, opening new avenues for physical therapy assistants to extend services beyond traditional clinical settings. Embracing secure video consultations, remote monitoring, and digital therapy tools, PTAs can efficiently support patient rehabilitation while overcoming geographic barriers. Integrating telehealth solutions not only optimizes appointment scheduling and follow-up evaluations but also facilitates data-driven decision-making. For instance, using analytics platforms akin to those found in affordable online master's in data science programs can enhance treatment personalization and outcomes. This innovative approach enables PTAs to manage patient data securely, collaborate with interdisciplinary teams remotely, and adapt interventions based on real-time feedback, thereby reinforcing a patient-centric model of care.

Can Artificial Intelligence Elevate Physical Therapy Practices?

Emerging advancements in artificial intelligence offer transformative potential for physical therapy practices by optimizing treatment personalization and streamlining clinical operations. AI-enabled systems can analyze complex patient data to support decision-making and improve rehabilitation outcomes while reducing administrative burdens. Additionally, integrating AI into practice management tools allows PTAs to anticipate patient needs and allocate resources more efficiently. Professionals seeking to bridge clinical expertise with technology-driven insights may benefit from targeted training opportunities such as an affordable online AI degree, which equips them with the necessary computational and analytical skills for this evolving landscape.

How Do Legal and Ethical Considerations Impact a PTA’s Career?

Legal and ethical practices are fundamental to maintaining patient trust and ensuring compliance in evolving healthcare environments. Physical therapy assistants must remain vigilant about updated regulatory frameworks, privacy laws, and ethical guidelines that govern patient care and data management. In-depth knowledge of these standards minimizes risks and solidifies PTAs’ reputations as trusted professionals. Furthermore, keeping abreast of legal changes empowers PTAs to make informed decisions regarding patient consent, documentation, and cross-disciplinary collaborations. Advanced educational programs addressing these topics – such as pursuing research-oriented degrees like PhD online AI – can provide valuable insights into integrating technology with ethical clinical practices.

Exploring Advanced Healthcare Administration Pathways for Physical Therapy Assistants

Physical therapy assistants looking to elevate their careers often explore pathways into healthcare administration. This transition offers opportunities to influence patient care policies, manage healthcare teams, and contribute to the strategic direction of physical therapy departments or organizations.

Why Consider Healthcare Administration?

1. Broader Impact: Transitioning into healthcare administration allows PTAs to affect organizational policies, patient care standards, and operational efficiency across entire facilities or networks.
2. Career Growth: Administrative roles often come with higher salaries, leadership opportunities, and the ability to shape the healthcare landscape.

PTAs interested in healthcare administration can pursue advanced degrees tailored to fit their busy schedules. For example, enrolling in a one year online masters in healthcare administration allows PTAs to gain leadership skills and business acumen in a condensed time frame.

Examining Behavioral Health Integration for PTAs

Physical therapy assistants (PTAs) looking to expand their career trajectories might consider exploring roles intersecting behavioral health and physical rehabilitation. With the increasing recognition of the interdependence between mental and physical health, PTAs can contribute substantially to patient outcomes by addressing the psychological aspects associated with physical pain, chronic conditions, or injury recovery.

One promising avenue is pursuing further education in behavioral health, such as obtaining Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) qualifications. This certification equips professionals with skills to analyze and improve patient behaviors, especially for those managing developmental or neurological conditions. If you are interested in exploring this path, selecting the best programs is crucial; discover the best BCBA degree options to ensure online and in-person opportunities align with your goals.

Integrating behavioral health expertise not only enhances a PTA’s skill set but also positions them to work in interdisciplinary teams dedicated to holistic patient care. By addressing mental health barriers to physical rehabilitation, PTAs can play a pivotal role in fostering both physical recovery and emotional resilience, ultimately improving patient satisfaction and treatment success rates.

Can Supplementary Certifications Amplify Career Opportunities for PTAs?

Supplementary certifications offer PTAs a strategic advantage by equipping them with additional skills that extend beyond direct patient care. Specialized credentials in areas such as healthcare coding and billing help diversify one’s professional portfolio and facilitate transitions into administrative and revenue cycle roles. For example, obtaining training through the cheapest medical coding certification can enhance technical competencies and broaden career prospects without incurring significant costs. Such certifications demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning while positioning PTAs to engage in interdisciplinary roles that require both clinical insight and operational expertise.

What other healthcare fields can physical therapy assistants explore?

As a physical therapy assistant, exploring other healthcare fields can lead to exciting career opportunities. One such field is genetics, which involves the study of heredity, genes, and variation. Physical therapy assistants can transition into roles that involve genetic counseling, research, or education. For those interested in pursuing advanced education in genetics, the latest information on masters in genetics can provide valuable insights into the best programs and career paths. This transition can be particularly rewarding for those passionate about understanding the genetic components of diseases and developing personalized treatment plans. By combining their knowledge of physical therapy with genetic principles, professionals can contribute to the development of innovative therapies and interventions, ultimately enhancing patient care and outcomes.

Transform Lives Through Physical Therapy

The physical therapy profession holds immeasurable worth and has the power to transform lives in profound ways. Beyond the realm of rehabilitation and injury recovery, physical therapists and physical therapy assistants employ a holistic approach to empower patients to lead fulfilling lives.

While the core objective of physical therapy is to restore physical function and alleviate pain, a career in physical therapy extends far beyond the realms of rehabilitation. Their expertise, compassion, and dedication make physical therapy an invaluable profession, touching the lives of countless individuals and creating lasting positive change.

Key Insights

• Rising Demand: The demand for physical therapy assistants (PTAs) is increasing due to the aging baby boomer population and the need for rehabilitation services across all age groups.
• Career Opportunities: PTAs can work in various settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, clinics, and home health agencies.
• Educational Path: Becoming a PTA requires completing an accredited associate's degree program and passing the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for state licensure.
• Salary Potential: The median annual wage for PTAs was $61,180 in May 2021, with potential for salary growth through experience and additional certifications.
• Essential Skills: PTAs need manual therapy skills, knowledge of adaptive tools and equipment, anatomy, communication, organizational, and computer skills.
• Career Advancement: Opportunities for career advancement include pursuing higher education (master's or doctorate degrees) and obtaining specialized certifications.
• Alternative Careers: PTAs can transition to other roles such as nurses, entrepreneurs, or researchers, leveraging their clinical knowledge and patient care experience.

FAQ

• What are the primary responsibilities of a physical therapy assistant?

A physical therapy assistant (PTA) works under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist to help patients improve mobility, manage pain, and regain strength through various therapeutic techniques and exercises. PTAs also assist in documenting patient progress and communicating with other healthcare professionals.

• What educational qualifications are required to become a physical therapy assistant?

To become a PTA, one must complete an accredited associate's degree program in physical therapy assistance and pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for state licensure. These programs typically take about two years to complete.

• What is the job outlook for physical therapy assistants?

The job outlook for PTAs is very positive, with employment projected to grow by 24% from 2021 to 2031. This growth is driven by an increasing demand for physical therapy services, particularly among the aging population.

• What skills are essential for a physical therapy assistant?

PTAs need a range of skills, including manual therapy, knowledge of exercise adaptive tools and equipment, a strong understanding of human anatomy, effective communication, organizational abilities, and computer proficiency.

• Can physical therapy assistants advance their careers?

Yes, PTAs can advance their careers by pursuing higher education such as a master's or doctorate degree in physical therapy. They can also obtain specialized certifications to enhance their expertise and open up new career opportunities.

• What are some alternative career options for physical therapy assistants?

PTAs can transition to other healthcare roles such as nursing, entrepreneurship in therapeutic services, or research. These alternative paths allow PTAs to leverage their clinical experience and knowledge in new and diverse ways.

References:

• Ahlsen, B., & Nilsen, A. B. (2022). Getting in touch: Communication in physical therapy practice and the multiple functions of language. Frontiers in Rehabilitation Sciences, 3. https://doi.org/10.3389/fresc.2022.882099
• American Physical Therapy Association. (n.d.). Becoming a physical therapist assistant. https://www.apta.org/your-career/careers-in-physical-therapy/becoming-a-pta
• Data USA. (n.d.). Physical Therapist Assistants & Aides.  https://datausa.io/profile/soc/physical-therapist-assistants-aides
• Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy. (n.d.). https://www.fsbpt.org/Free-Resources/NPTE-Pass-Rate-Reports/NPTE-Graduation-Year-Reports
• International Academy of Orthopedic Medicine. (n.d.). IAOM-US Certifications. https://iaom-us.com/certification
• National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification. (n.d.). Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist. https://www.nctrc.org/about-certification/ctrs-the-qualified-provider
• National Strength and Conditioning Association. (n.d.). National Strength and Conditioning Association Certifications. https://www.nsca.com/certification-overview
• Owens, J. G., Rauzi, M. R., Kittelson, A., Graber, J., Bade, M. J., Johnson, J., & Nabhan, D. (2020). How new technology is improving physical therapy. Current Reviews in Musculoskeletal Medicine, 13(2), 200211. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12178-020-09610-6 
• Salary.com. (n.d.). Pediatric physical therapist salary. https://www.salary.com/research/salary/posting/pediatric-physical-therapist-salary
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022, September 8). Athletic Trainers : Occupational outlook handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/athletic-trainers.htm
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022, September 8). Exercise Physiologists : Occupational outlook handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/exercise-physiologists.htm
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, March 21). Occupational therapists: Occupational outlook handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/occupational-therapists.htm
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, September 8). Occupational therapist assistants and aides: Occupational outlook handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/occupational-therapy-assistants-and-aides.htm
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022, September 8). Physical therapist : Occupational outlook handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physical-therapists.htm
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022, September 8). Physical therapist assistants and aides : Occupational outlook handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physical-therapist-assistants-and-aides.htm
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022, September 15). Physician assistants : Occupational outlook handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physician-assistants.htm
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, July 3). Occupational therapists : Occupational outlook handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/occupational-therapists.htm
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022, September 8). Respiratory therapists: Occupational outlook handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/respiratory-therapists.htm
• World Health Organization. (n.d.). Musculoskeletal conditions. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/musculoskeletal-conditions