Treatment may include teaching patients to walk, use crutches, use an artificial limb and therapeutic exercise. Therapeutic modalities such as heat, cold, ultrasound, electricity and massage are some of the techniques which are used in physical therapy. Physical Therapist Assistants are licensed by the State of Texas after successful completion of a national examination. Physical Therapist Assistants are employed in health care settings which offer physical therapy services. Facilities which utilize PTAs include hospitals, rehabilitation centers, out patient clinics, nursing homes, school districts and long term residential facilities.
Opportunities are also available through traveling physical therapy services.
The course of study is two years and combines academics and clinical experience. Please note that PTA courses do not transfer to baccalaureate or master's degree physical therapy programs. Individuals interested in becoming physical therapists should contact those schools directly to get the admissions requirements. A list of physical therapy programs may be found by going to the American Physical Therapy Association . Contact web site admininistrator with comments.