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. Our 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 that employment for PTAs will grow by about 19% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for other occupations.
Specialties within Physical Therapy. As PTAs, we are integral rehabilitation team members. We have diverse opportunities in a variety of specialty treatment areas and a strong employment outlook in the coming years.
Physical therapy encompasses various specialties, and PTAs can work in any of these fields, including:
1. Orthopedic Physical Therapy: Focuses on musculoskeletal injuries, such as fractures, strains, and post-surgical rehabilitation.
2. Neurological Physical Therapy: This type of therapy works with patients who have neurological disorders, such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson’s disease, Traumatic Brain Injury.
3. Pediatric Physical Therapy: Deals with developmental and physical conditions in children, such as cerebral palsy or scoliosis.
4. Geriatric Physical Therapy: This field focuses on age-related issues such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and balance disorders in elderly patients.
5. Sports Physical Therapy: Specializes in sports-related injuries, including sprains, strains, and rehabilitation for athletes.
6. Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy: This therapy assists patients with heart and lung conditions, helping them regain strength and endurance after cardiac events or surgery.
7. Women’s Health Physical Therapy: Focuses on issues such as pregnancy-related pain, pelvic floor disorders, and post-partum rehabilitation.
The American Physical Therapy Association emphasizes the following core values that PTAs uphold in their work and actions:
1. Optimization of Human Movement: PTAs help patients achieve their fullest potential by enhancing mobility and overall function. This reflects the commitment to ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their limitations, have the opportunity to live life to its fullest.
2. Innovation in Healthcare: PTAs are key in adopting new technologies, treatment approaches, and evidence-based practices to improve patient care and outcomes. Their involvement helps drive forward-thinking methods to improve healthcare delivery.
3. Advancement in Education: Through their involvement in educational opportunities, PTAs contribute to the ongoing growth of their knowledge base. Whether through formal advanced proficiencies, continuing education, or mentorship, they participate in elevating the standards of practice for the profession.
4. Advocacy for Equal Access to Services: PTAs help ensure that physical therapy services are accessible to everyone, no matter their age or background. This includes advocating for equitable healthcare policies, reducing barriers to treatment, and working toward eliminating health disparities.
5. Vigilance in Protecting Patient Rights: PTAs work tirelessly to protect the rights of their patients and clients. This includes ensuring patient privacy, consent, and the ethical treatment of all individuals, regardless of their background.
6. Responsiveness to Patient, Client, and Member Needs: PTAs are responsive to the dynamic and evolving needs of the people they serve. Whether adjusting treatment plans, adapting to new healthcare requirements, or meeting patient concerns, they maintain flexibility and responsiveness to ensure optimal care.
7. Respect for Diversity: PTAs embrace and respect the diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences of patients, clients, and fellow healthcare professionals. They recognize the importance of cultural competence in delivering effective, individualized care.
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. We invite you to learn more about FTCC and the Physical Therapist Assistant program at faytechcc.edu or contact Dr. Annette Webster at webstera@faytechcc.edu.