Physical Therapist Assistant - myFootpath

Physical Therapist Assistant Basics
Physical therapist assistants work under the supervision of licensed physical therapists, assisting patients and clinical personnel in the day-to-day business of a physical therapy clinic.

Therapists will often delegate to physical therapist assistants many of the important duties of the field, from ultrasound scans to patient weight training to the application of heat packs or ice to aid in muscle recovery.

Physical therapist assistants are also responsible for creating and maintaining patient records, and discussing treatment progress and recommendations with physical therapists.

A certain degree of strength or athletic disposition is important to this profession, as assistants are often required to assist patients in their strength or flexibility training.  Because many physical therapy clinics are outpatient facilities where recovering patients come a few times a month as part of their long-term rehabilitation, it is common for physical therapist assistants to work nights and/or weekends.

How to Get a Physical Therapist Assistant Degree
In most states, physical therapist assistants must hold an Associate’s degree.  Coursework focuses on the skills and knowledge necessary to become a professional in the field, as well as large amount of hands-on clinical training.

Students should expect classes in math, anatomy, biology, chemistry, psychology, physiology, at other related subjects.  Licensure is required in some states in order for graduates to begin practicing as physical therapist assistants.

If you are interested in this profession, contact your state licensing board to find out about other requirements, as some states also require physical therapist assistants to hold other healthcare certifications, such as CPR or first aid.

Featured Campus Schools for a Physical Therapist Assistant Degree:

• Brown Mackie – Request Information
• South University – Request Information

Compatible Personality Traits
Strong, caring, handy, practical, athletic, knowledgeable, problem-solving, trustworthy, patient, motivating, charismatic.

Interview with a Professional Physical Therapist Assistant
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Salary Expectations for Physical Therapist Assistants
Given their relatively quick educational requirements and their strong advancement potential, physical therapist assistants are well-compensated, even in entry level positions.  According to the Department of Labor, the annual median salary for physical therapist assistants is $46,140.

Professionals with one to four years’ experience should expect to earn a median annual salary of $38,249, while those with five to nine years on the job should earn a median annual salary of $44,404.  Advancement possibilities include management and administrative roles as well as specialist positions where experienced assistants work with certain groups or fields, such as children or sports medicine.

Job Outlook for Physical Therapy Assistants
The Department of Labor anticipates 29% job growth among physical therapist assistants by 2016. The healthcare industry as a whole is expanding as the American population ages and requires more medical care.

Older people are in particular more likely to require more physical rehabilitation services, and so physical therapy clinics-and their employees-should enjoy good business for the foreseeable future.

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Sources: bls.gov/oes/current/oes312021.htm; payscale.com