In a typical physical therapy setting, some providers are actually physical therapy assistants (PTAs), who complete only a two-year associate degree. PTAs make less money than a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), making it cheaper for clinics to hire them. While I’ve personally worked with some fantastic PTAs, they are not authorized to direct or modify a plan of care and must be overseen by a DPT.

If you have a complicated orthopedic issue, a standardized treatment protocol carried out by a PTA likely won’t be enough. This could explain why some patients with chronic problems struggle to make progress in a timely manner. The next time you attend a physical therapy session, ask your provider about their credentials.

And if you’re not seeing improvements, request to be treated by a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT).