Physical Therapist Assistants

Assist physical therapists in providing physical therapy treatments and procedures. May, in accordance with state laws, assist in the development of treatment plans, carry out routine functions, document the progress of treatment, and modify specific treatments in accordance with patient status and within the scope of treatment plans established by a physical therapist. Generally requires formal training.

What you'd actually do

• Instruct, motivate, safeguard, and assist patients as they practice exercises or functional activities.
• Document patient information, such as notes on their progress.
• Observe patients during treatments to compile and evaluate data on their responses and progress and provide results to physical therapist in person or through progress notes.
• Instruct patients in proper body mechanics and in ways to improve functional mobility, such as aquatic exercise.
• Secure patients into or onto therapy equipment.
• Confer with physical therapy staff or others to discuss and evaluate patient information for planning, modifying, or coordinating treatment.

How you get there

Typical entry-level education: Associate degree. Overall preparation: medium preparation (Job Zone 3 of 5).

The feel of the work

The work is mostly indoors; you're around people constantly. (Compared against the other 818 careers in the guide.)

Working for yourself

About 0.7% of physical therapist assistants are self-employed.

Who it tends to fit

This work tends to fit people who are people-focused, hands-on and organized and detail-focused.

Related careers

• Occupational Therapy Assistants
• Massage Therapists
• Healthcare Support Workers, All Other
• Dental Assistants
• Medical Equipment Preparers
• Medical Assistants

Quick questions

How much does a physical therapist assistant make?

The median pay is $32.88 per hour — roughly $68,500 a year, with the real range running from about $22.96/hr (10th percentile) to $43.04/hr (90th percentile). Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Do you need a degree to be a physical therapist assistant?

The typical entry-level education is: Associate degree. Overall preparation level: medium preparation (Job Zone 3 of 5).

What does a physical therapist assistant actually do all day?

Instruct, motivate, safeguard, and assist patients as they practice exercises or functional activities. Document patient information, such as notes on their progress. Observe patients during treatments to compile and evaluate data on their responses and progress and provide results to physical therapist in person or through progress notes.