How To Become A Physical Therapist Assistant

Individuals that have an interest in physical therapy, but who don’t want to become a physical therapist, should investigate how to become a physical therapist assistant instead. Most would be happy to know that the process (education, training, clinical testing, etc.) of becoming a physical therapist assistant is relatively brief. The educational and training requirements for this profession require only a two year commitment. An Associate Degree is all that’s needed to become a physical therapist assistant (PTA).

Physical therapists assistants work alongside physical therapists, helping them administer rehabilitation exercises and treatment to those who have been injured or disabled. Individuals that would like to move up in this career have the option of becoming a physical therapist. There are many reasons why a person might want to do so, including greater responsibility and better pay. They pay-offs are significant. However, additional education and training would be required.

The duties that physical therapists assistants perform doesn't differ that much from those of the physical therapist they assist. They will be asked to help injured and disabled individuals perform rehabilitation exercises, apply hot and cold therapies, administer massages, paraffin baths and electric stimulation, amongst other duties. The primary difference is that physical therapist assistants will perform the aforementioned duties under the direction of a physical therapist.

Physical therapists develop each patient’s treatment plan. They also evaluate their progress to determine whether or not they are on course, performing the exercises they need to and/or improving (if applicable). Though the physical therapist assistant isn’t ultimately responsible for patients, they are often required to monitor and document their activities and progress

Physical therapy assistants are generally employed in medical facilities, for instance, rehabilitation centers, medical offices and hospitals. A person that decides to enter this profession will need to be strong and in good, physical shape. This is because they will be required to regularly, physically support injured and disabled patients throughout the rehabilitation process. The operation of heavy equipment is also often required.

How to Become a Physical Therapist Assistant

As mentioned above, one of the best things about becoming a physical therapist assistant is that it only takes two years to complete a PTA program. An Associate Degree, from an accredited college and physical therapist assistant program is all that’s needed to get started. There are hundreds of PTA programs in the United States. Most programs will require that students complete a combination of classroom work and clinical testing.

How to Become a Physical Therapist Assistant: Compensation

A career as a Physical Therapist Assistant pays well, especially considering the fact that only a two-year degree is required. PTA’s, on average, earn $46,300, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Those that work in the field of home health care earn even more. On average home health care PTA’s earn $56,460.