What does a military PTA job entail?

I'm exploring different roles in the military and came across PTA jobs. Can anyone explain what the daily responsibilities are, and if pursuing a role as a military PTA requires special certifications or training?

A Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) in the military has a rather multifaceted role, similar to civilian PTAs, with some additional military-based responsibilities.

The core of a PTA's job usually involves assisting a Physical Therapist in the treatment of patients who have physical injuries or illnesses. This can involve implementing the physical therapists' treatment plans, which may include muscle strengthening exercises, stretching, manual therapy techniques, cardiorespiratory exercises, and education about the disease process and prevention strategies.

In a military setting, a PTA might also have duties geared towards readiness and injury prevention for active duty military personnel. This might include training regiments to prevent injuries or assist the recovery process for wounded soldiers. They could be responsible for providing rehabilitation services, not only to military personnel but also to their families and veterans.

Safety is highly emphasized in military health roles, so PTAs would need to adhere strictly to the protocols and guidelines set by the military's medical department.

As for the requirements and training, in the U.S. military, a PTA generally needs an associate's degree from an accredited PTA program, just like civilian PTAs. They would also need to pass the National Physical Therapy Exam to become licensed, which is required in all states.

After meeting these qualifications, further training is required upon entering the military, typically starting with basic combat training, where you learn basic soldiering skills. Then, you'll likely receive specialized training associated with medical procedures, military life, and combat survival.

Remember that each branch of the military may have slightly different training and requirement structures, so it would be beneficial to reach out to the specific branch's recruiter for the most accurate information.