Physical Therapy Aide

Physical therapy aides are different from physical therapy assistants in that they only require a high school diploma and typically receive on-the-job training. While physical therapy assistants are in high demand due to their educational background and certification, the physical therapy aide is experiencing more job competition due to the availability of on-the-job training and the phasing out of the physical therapy aide schools in favor of physical therapy assistants.

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Physical Therapy Aide Salary

Physical therapy aides held a median wage of approximately $24,000 in 2008 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest earned less than $17,000 and the highest earned more than $33,000. Salary increases are dependent upon the completion of an accredited physical therapy assistant academic program.

Physical Therapy Aide Training and Qualifications

Physical therapy aides typically do not complete any educational programs other than a high school diploma. They receive on-the-job training. Physical therapy aide schools are being phased out for physical therapist assistant programs.

Job Outlook

Physical therapy aides currently experience keen competition in finding jobs according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The reasoning behind this is that physical therapy aides typically have a high school diploma for their educational background, whereas a physical therapy assistant has completed a 2 year educational program accredited by the American Physical Therapy Associations’ Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education. Essentially, the physical therapy assistant is replacing physical therapy aides due to being able to fulfill the same role and complete the same tasks with better training and more refined skill sets.

Advancement

Physical therapy aides may advance to physical therapy assistant positions with additional education from a community or career college with an accredited physical therapy assistant program. Physical therapy aide schools also give this option. In addition, physical therapy aides may advance with the certification of physical therapy assistants that vary by State.

Learn More

To learn more about physical therapy aide certification and schools, fill out the form below for information. Alternatively, check out physical therapy assistants.