5 Signs You're Meant for the PTA (Physical Therapist Assistant) Life

Some people get by while others embark on long, rewarding journeys. Some stumble into an industry, and others find their calling. 

If you are the type of person who wants a long, rewarding profession where you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of millions of people, you just might be meant for the physical therapist assistant life. 

Physical therapist assistants, or PTAs, work as part of a team to provide treatment to people of all ages who have medical problems that limit their mobility. PTAs work closely with physical therapists to track patient progress, collect data and make sure that patients are comfortable, safe and reaching their goals. Every day in the United States, PTAs make a positive difference in the lives of more than 750,000 people, according to the Physical Therapy Association.

It's a rewarding field, with the chance to make a real difference in the lives of many people. 

Here's a look at the top signs that prove you are meant for the physical therapist assistant life:

1. You like making a positive difference 

There are millions of people living with injuries and illnesses--and many require assistance to regain their health and improve their quality of life. PTAs help provide that assistance. Every day, physical therapist assistants help people regain their mobility, improve their overall wellness and return to living happy, healthy lives. Not every profession allows you to directly impact and improve the lives of the people with whom you work--but being a PTA does.

2. You are interested in health and wellness

If Health and Gym were among your favorite classes in high school, you might want to explore a future as a PTA. Most physical therapist assistants are innately interested in human movement and physical function. They appreciate the value of exercise and wellness, and then learn about ways to work with the body to reduce pain, restore proper body function and restore health. 

3. You want to work with cutting-edge medical technology

Physical therapy isn't all about exercise, stretching and massage. It also includes the use of electrotherapy and ultrasound. As a PTA, you'll work closely with physical therapists to use these tools (and more) to meet the specific needs of your patients. You'll be working with people who suffer from chronic pain, arthritis, everyday aches and pains and even neurological issues. And you'll be able to use the latest cutting-edge medical technology to help improve the quality of their lives. 

4. You enjoy being part of a team

Physical therapist assistants are part of a team that includes physical therapists, nurses, front office staff and others. Each member of the team plays an important role in helping patients achieve their wellness goals. It can be a fast-paced, challenging environment where every team member relies on one another to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients. Physical therapy teams often form tight bonds with each other as well as their patients--and they all celebrate and share in their successes. 

5. You want options

One of the nice things about working as a physical therapist assistant are the options it provides. You can work in a variety of settings, including physical therapy clinics, nursing homes, hospitals and even college or private athletic facilities. You can also work with a variety of patients, including children, the elderly, college and professional athletes and people who have just undergone medical procedures that will significantly improve the overall quality of their lives. As if that's not enough options, you will also find jobs for PTAs in every part of the country. 

So blessed to say I just got the best phone call to end my summer. I am proud to be 1 of the 16 that was accepted into the PTA program @ECPI

— Elizabeth Cobb (@Cobbe_) August 18, 2014

If you like helping people, are intrigued by the human body, and want a career that provides options and rewards, the PTA life might be for you. Contact ECPI today to learn more about how you could earn your Associate of Applied Science degree in Physical Therapy in as little as 1.5 years. It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

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