By Gene Antunes, Physical Therapist Assistant, RWJBarnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center
It is important for patients to understand the roles of the treatment professionals when receiving care. When you come to physical therapy, you’ll likely work with more than one professional, and one of them might be a Physical Therapist Assistant, or PTA. Below will address the role of a PTA and how they fit into the care team.
What is a Physical Therapist Assistant?
A Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) is a licensed healthcare professional who provides hands-on care and therapeutic exercise under the direction and general supervision of a Physical Therapist (PT). PTAs are educated and trained to help patients improve movement, strength, balance, and function following injury, illness, or surgery.
In New Jersey, PTAs complete an accredited associate degree program, pass a national licensing exam, and participate in continuing education to maintain their credentials.
How the PTA and PT Work Together
The relationship between a PT and PTA is a team approach:
- The Physical Therapist (PT) performs your initial evaluation, identifies your specific needs, sets treatment goals, and develops your personalized plan of care.
- The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) carries out that plan by providing treatments, guiding exercises, and monitoring your progress at each session.
Throughout your care, the PT and PTA communicate closely to ensure your program is safe, effective, and tailored to your progress. If your condition changes or new challenges arise, the PTA reports this to the PT, who adjusts your treatment plan as needed.
What You Can Expect from a PTA
During your therapy sessions, you might work directly with your PTA to:
- Perform therapeutic exercises to build strength and flexibility
- Practice mobility and balance training for walking or daily activities
- Receive manual therapy techniques to reduce pain or stiffness
- Learn and review your home exercise program
- Discuss how you’re feeling, including any soreness, swelling, or improvements
Your PTA will guide you through each step, ensure your form is correct, and motivate you to stay consistent, all while keeping your safety and comfort in mind.
The Benefits of a Collaborative Care Team
Having both a PT and a PTA involved in your care offers several advantages:
- More one-on-one attention: PTAs allow clinics to provide more hands-on time for patients.
- Consistent guidance: You’ll often work with the same PTA throughout your recovery, allowing for familiarity and continuity of care. This may change depending on scheduling and your needs.
- Team-based insight: PTs and PTAs combine their expertise to make sure your treatment stays on track and progresses safely.
Our Shared Goal: Your Recovery
The partnership between the PT and PTA ensures that your rehabilitation is comprehensive and patient centered. Whether you’re recovering from surgery, managing a chronic condition, or working to regain strength after an injury, your PT and PTA team is here to support you every step of the way.
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The experienced and compassionate staff at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center Rehabilitation Centers, with locations in West Orange and Livingston, offers adults and children the specialized care they need to resume an active life after surgery, injury or illness. Staff is committed to providing patients with the most advanced services in a safe, caring and soothing environment. For high-risk patients who are unable to visit in person, telehealth is an option. Patients do not need a prescription for physical therapy services.
For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call 973-322-7500.