Question: Physical Therapy Assistant
After my first visit to a therapy facility, I was treated by a physical therapy assistant. Can you please tell me the role of a physical therapy assistant?
Answer: Physical therapy assistants, or PTAs, are licensed professionals who provide physical therapy services under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist. Physical therapy assistants must complete a 2-year associate's degree and are licensed, certified, or registered in most states.
According to the American Physical Therapy Association, care provided by a PTA may include teaching patients/clients exercise for mobility, strength and coordination, training for activities such as walking with crutches, canes, or walkers, massage, and the use of physical agents, and electrotherapy such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation.
According to the American Physical Therapy Association, care provided by a PTA may include teaching patients/clients exercise for mobility, strength and coordination, training for activities such as walking with crutches, canes, or walkers, massage, and the use of physical agents, and electrotherapy such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation.
