What Is a Physical Therapist Assistant?
Physical therapy focuses on providing therapy and treatment solutions to patients who need help developing, maintaining or restoring physical function and mobility to their bodies in daily life or toward a specific goal. Physical therapist assistants usually work with patients who have suffered from a physical injury or have other physical disabilities.
A physical therapist assistant works with a physical therapist to help administer treatments, advise patients and physically aide them in treatment exercises. A physical therapist assistant may help to provide things like general guidance, therapeutic treatments, massage, ultrasound and balance training to patients.
Physical therapist assistants can work in a variety of different settings. They may work in physical therapy centers, private practice clinics, hospitals or in patients’ homes. Physical therapist assistants need to be able to lift and hold patients during treatment, so those looking to become physical therapist assistants should make sure that they can support a substantial amount of weight.
How to Become a Physical Therapist Assistant
Physical therapist assistants in most states are required to hold at least an associate degree. There are many online and traditional programs offering associate degrees in different forms of physical therapy. In order to make sure a program is accredited, check to see if it is listed by the American Physical Therapy Association’s Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education. This association also accredits programs specifically tailored to education for physical therapy assistants.
Coursework should include both academic learning and hands-on experience. Typical classes should include disciplines such as English, anatomy, algebra, physiology and psychology. Students should make sure that their program offers a substantial amount of real-life training and opportunities to work with actual patients during school.
Physical therapist assistants need to be decisive and excellent at working with people one-on-one. They must also by able to support a superior and be able to responsibly follow instructions to the letter.
Physical Therapist Assistant Career Outlook & Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of physical therapist assistants is estimated to increase by 35% in the decade from 2008 to 2018. This is significantly higher than the average employment growth rate for all occupations.
According to the Bureau, physical therapist assistants earned a median annual wage of $46,140 in 2008. The middle 50% made from $37,170 to $54,900 annually. The top 10% earned over $68,830, and the lowest 10% made under $28,580. The industries with the highest amounts of physical therapist assistants were home health care services, nursing facilities, and general medical and surgical hospitals.
Salary will vary based on geographical location and employer. Employees with the best hiring and salary potentials will have at least an associate degree in nursing and be up to date on any current certifications. They will also have an extensive background in physical therapy and feel comfortable working with clients of a wide variety of ages and occupations.
