What is the difference between Physical Therapist (PTs) and Physical Therapy Assistant (PTAs)?

What is the Difference? Physical Therapist (PT) Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA)
Educational Requirements Masters or Doctorate Degree Associate Degree
Licensure Required Yes Yes (in most states)
Job Specification Examine and Treat Provide physical therapy services under the direction or supervision of the physical therapist.
Physical Therapy Services Perform Evaluation with treatment plan to restore optimal function, increase mobility, reduce pain, and prevent disability. Patient Education Therapeutic Exercises Gait and Transfer Training Balance Training Mechanical Traction Massage Manual Therapy Physical Agents/Modalities such as ultrasound, heat, ice, electrical stimulation Documentation Patient Education Therapeutic Exercises Gait and Transfer Training Balance Training Mechanical Traction Massage Manual Therapy Physical Agents/Modalities such as ultrasound, heat, ice, electrical stimulation Documentation
Work Settings Outpatient clinics Hospital Skilled Nursing Homes Schools Fitness Center and Sports Facilities Hospices Home Health Subacute Facilities Occupational/Industrial environment Inpatient Rehabilitation Outpatient clinics Hospital Skilled Nursing Homes Schools Fitness Center and Sports Facilities Hospices Home Health Subacute Facilities Occupational/Industrial environment Inpatient Rehabilitation
Salary Depending: on average $75,000/year See www.salary.com Depending: on average $42,000/year See www.salary.com

You Can Be Me — A Career in Physical Therapy (APTA)