Physical Therapy Assistant

Physical Therapy Assistants (PTA’s) are part of the physical therapy team that assists patients in recovering from illnesses, injury, or surgery, that may have limited the patient’s movement or quality of life.

Working at the direction and under supervision of a physical therapist, PTA’s teach patients excerices and stretches, monitor their progress, record notes, and help patients use assistive devices like crutches, canes, or wheelchairs.

Physical therapy assistants must have an associate’s degree from an accredited PTA program. Most PTA’s work in the same settings as physical therapists: hospitals, dedicated physical therapy clinics, long-term care facilities, or in the home of patients.