Physical Therapist Assistants work alongside a Physical Therapist to provide rehabilitative care and treatment to patients recovering from injuries, surgeries, or illnesses. PTAs help patients improve mobility, reduce pain, and prevent or manage physical disabilities through prescribed exercises, therapeutic techniques, and other interventions. PTA duties include implementing treatment plans, monitoring patient progress, educating patients about exercises and proper body mechanics, and assisting with physical therapy equipment.
Outlook for the Next Ten Years. The demand for PTAs is expected to grow significantly over the next decade. This growth is driven by an aging population, increased awareness of the benefits of physical therapy, and a rise in chronic conditions, such as arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, and obesity. Additionally, as more people seek non-invasive treatments, physical therapy becomes a preferred option over surgery or medication. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 16% growth for physical therapist assistants from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. The national median annual salary for a degreed physical therapist assistant is $65,510, according to the BLS. The lowest 10% of earners make less than $46,930, while the highest 10% earn over $87,630.
Specialties within Physical Therapy. PTAs are integral rehabilitation team members with diverse career opportunities in various specialties and a strong employment outlook in the coming years.
Physical therapy encompasses various specialties, and PTAs can work in any of
these fields, including:
• Orthopedic Physical Therapy
• Neurological Physical Therapy
• Pediatric Physical Therapy: Geriatric Physical Therapy
• Sports Physical Therapy
• Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy
• Women’s Health Physical Therapy
As part of the professional Physical Therapy community, PTAs are uniquely positioned to significantly impact both within their professional field and in their local communities. Through volunteerism, PTAs have the opportunity to give back to the community and develop their skills, advance their proficiencies, and contribute to the ongoing evolution of healthcare and education in physical therapy. The American Physical Therapy Association emphasizes the following core values that PTAs uphold in their work and actions:
• Optimization of Human Movement – helping patients achieve their fullest potential by enhancing mobility and overall function
• Innovation in Healthcare – being flexible at adopting new technologies, treatment approaches, and evidence-based practices to improve patient care and outcomes
• Advancement in Education - whether through formal advanced proficiencies, continuing education, or mentorship
• Advocacy for Equal Access to Services – ensuring that services are available for everyone, no matter one’s age or background
• Vigilance in Protecting Patient Rights - ensuring patient privacy, consent, and ethical treatment of all
• Responsiveness to Patient, Client, and Member Needs - maintaining flexibility and responsiveness to ensure optimal patient care
• Respect for Diversity – embracing and respecting the diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences of patients, clients, and fellow healthcare professionals.
By aligning with these values, PTAs play a critical role in advancing the physical therapy profession, advocating for patients, and making a meaningful impact in the communities they serve. Their efforts help shape the future of healthcare by ensuring that the profession remains inclusive, innovative, and patient-centered.
Want to learn more about enrolling in Fayetteville Technical Community College’s Associate Degree Physical Therapist Assistant program? Contact us at healthproadmissions@faytechcc.edu.