Physical therapist assistants held about 78,700 jobs in 2014. Physical therapist aides held about 50,000 jobs in 2014.
The industries that employed the most physical therapist assistants in 2014 were as follows:
Offices of physical, occupational and speech therapists, and audiologists
43%
Hospitals; state, local, and private
23
Nursing care facilities (skilled nursing facilities)
11
Home healthcare services
9
Offices of physicians
5
The industries that employed the most physical therapist aides in 2014 were as follows:
Offices of physical, occupational and speech therapists, and audiologists
55%
Hospitals; state, local, and private
21
Offices of physicians
8
Nursing care facilities (skilled nursing facilities)
6
Government
3
Physical therapist assistants and aides are frequently on their feet and moving as they set up equipment and help and treat patients. Because they must often lift and move patients, they are vulnerable to back injuries. Assistants and aides can limit these risks by using proper techniques when they assist patients.
Work Schedules
Most physical therapist assistants and aides work full time. Some night and weekend work may be required as many physical therapy offices and clinics have extended hours to accommodate patients' schedules.