25 Most Common Conditions Treated by PTAs

Understanding the role of PTAs in the rehabilitation process.

Physical therapist assistants (PTAs) play a crucial role in the rehabilitation process, working closely with patients to help them regain mobility, strength, and function. This article delves into the essential role PTAs have in healthcare, highlighting the various types of patients they work with and the common conditions they treat. From musculoskeletal issues like sprains and fractures to neurological disorders such as stroke and multiple sclerosis, you’ll gain comprehensive insights into the specific treatments PTAs provide, including therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and modalities like ultrasound and electrical stimulation. For those interested in pursuing a career in healthcare but not sure where to start, explore the 17 best entry-level medical jobs here.

What is a Physical Therapy Assistant?

Physical therapist assistants (PTAs) are licensed healthcare professionals who work under the supervision of physical therapists to help patients recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and improve their overall physical function. PTAs typically complete an accredited associate degree program, which includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. After graduation, they must pass a national licensure exam to practice.

PTAs play a crucial role in the rehabilitation process. They work with patients of all ages and backgrounds, including those recovering from surgeries, suffering from chronic pain, or managing neurological conditions. Their primary responsibilities include:

• Designing and Implementing Exercise Programs: PTAs create customized exercise routines tailored to each patient’s specific needs and goals, helping to improve strength, flexibility, and endurance.
• Performing Manual Therapy Techniques: These hands-on techniques can include massages, mobilizations, and manipulations to reduce pain, enhance mobility, and promote healing.
• Educating Patients About Assistive Devices: PTAs teach patients how to use crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, and other assistive devices safely and effectively.
• Assisting with Patient Evaluations: While physical therapists conduct initial evaluations and develop treatment plans, PTAs assist in monitoring progress and making necessary adjustments.

PTAs are essential in helping patients regain independence and improve their quality of life. They provide support, encouragement, and expert care throughout the rehabilitation journey. Those interested in pursuing this rewarding career can learn more about how to become a PTA today.

25 Most Common Conditions Treated by Physical Therapist Assistants

What follows is a brief explanation of each condition along with the causes, symptoms, and treatment methods that PTAs employ to help patients regain their strength, mobility, and independence.

1. Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the gradual breakdown of cartilage, the smooth tissue that cushions the ends of bones in the joints. As the cartilage wears away, bones begin to rub against each other, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility. This condition commonly affects weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and spine, but can also impact the hands and other joints. Osteoarthritis progresses slowly over time and can significantly impact daily activities and overall quality of life.

• Causes and Risk Factors: Aging, joint injury, repetitive stress on the joint, obesity, and genetic predisposition.
• Symptoms: Joint pain, stiffness, swelling, decreased range of motion, and a grating sensation during movement.
• Treatment Methods Used by PTAs: Exercise programs to improve flexibility and strength, manual therapy to reduce pain and improve joint function, and education on assistive devices like braces and walkers.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation of the joints, resulting in pain, swelling, and, eventually, joint deformity. In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium—the lining of the membranes that surround the joints. This leads to inflammation that can damage the cartilage and bone within the joint. Rheumatoid arthritis typically affects multiple joints symmetrically, including the hands, wrists, knees, and feet, and can also cause systemic symptoms like fatigue and fever. Over time, this progressive disease can lead to significant joint damage and loss of function.

• Causes and Risk Factors: Genetic factors, smoking, obesity, and environmental exposures.
• Symptoms: Joint pain, swelling, stiffness (especially in the morning), fatigue, and fever.
• Treatment Methods Used by PTAs: Range of motion exercises, strengthening exercises, manual therapy, and patient education on joint protection techniques.

3. Low Back Pain

Low back pain is a common condition that affects the lower portion of the spine and can manifest as either acute or chronic discomfort. This condition involves the lumbar region and can range from a dull, constant ache to a sudden, sharp pain. Causes of low back pain include muscle strain, herniated discs, poor posture, and degenerative conditions such as arthritis. It can be triggered by activities like lifting heavy objects, sudden movements, or prolonged sitting. Low back pain is a leading cause of disability and can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life.

• Causes and Risk Factors: Poor posture, muscle or ligament strain, herniated discs, arthritis, and sedentary lifestyle.
• Symptoms: Dull or sharp pain in the lower back, muscle tightness, difficulty standing or walking, and pain radiating down the legs.
• Treatment Methods Used by PTAs: Core strengthening exercises, stretching, manual therapy, and ergonomic education to prevent recurrence.

4. Neck Pain

Neck pain involves discomfort in the cervical spine, the region of the spine that supports the head. This condition can arise from various causes, such as muscle strain, poor posture, degenerative disc disease, or injuries like whiplash. Neck pain can lead to limited mobility, making it difficult to turn or tilt the head. Symptoms often include stiffness, headaches, and radiating pain in the shoulders or arms. Neck pain can significantly affect daily activities and overall quality of life, requiring targeted treatment to alleviate symptoms and restore function.

• Causes and Risk Factors: Poor posture, muscle strain, degenerative disc disease, and whiplash injuries.
• Symptoms: Pain and stiffness in the neck, headaches, reduced range of motion, and numbness or tingling in the arms.
• Treatment Methods Used by PTAs: Postural training, neck strengthening exercises, manual therapy, and ergonomic advice.

5. Shoulder Impingement

Shoulder impingement occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles become irritated and inflamed as they pass through the narrow space within the shoulder joint. This condition often results from repetitive overhead activities, poor posture, or anatomical abnormalities that reduce the space for the tendons. Symptoms include shoulder pain, particularly when lifting the arm, weakness, and a decreased range of motion. Shoulder impingement can significantly impact daily activities, especially those involving arm movements, and may lead to more severe rotator cuff injuries if left untreated.

• Causes and Risk Factors: Repetitive overhead activities, poor posture, and structural abnormalities.
• Symptoms: Shoulder pain, especially when lifting the arm, weakness, and reduced range of motion.
• Treatment Methods Used by PTAs: Strengthening and stretching exercises, manual therapy, and education on activity modification.

6. Rotator Cuff Tear

A rotator cuff tear is a tear in the muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint. This condition can result from acute injuries, such as a fall or lifting something heavy, or from degenerative changes due to repetitive stress and aging. Symptoms include shoulder pain, especially at night or when lifting the arm, weakness, and limited range of motion. A rotator cuff tear can significantly impair the ability to perform everyday tasks that require arm and shoulder movement, and if left untreated, may lead to chronic pain and further complications.

• Causes and Risk Factors: Acute injury, repetitive stress, and degenerative changes with aging.
• Symptoms: Shoulder pain, especially at night, weakness, and difficulty lifting or rotating the arm.
• Treatment Methods Used by PTAs: Strengthening exercises, stretching, manual therapy, and functional training.

7. Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

Tennis elbow is an overuse injury that causes pain in the outer part of the elbow. Medically known as lateral epicondylitis, it occurs when the tendons that attach the forearm muscles to the elbow become inflamed due to repetitive motions, such as gripping or lifting. Commonly seen in athletes who play racquet sports, it can also affect people in various occupations that involve repetitive arm movements. Symptoms include pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow, weakened grip strength, and discomfort when lifting or bending the arm. Tennis elbow can hinder daily activities and requires proper treatment to alleviate pain and restore function.

• Causes and Risk Factors: Repetitive wrist and arm motions, age, and certain occupations.
• Symptoms: Pain and burning sensation on the outer elbow, weak grip strength, and tenderness.
• Treatment Methods Used by PTAs: Strengthening and stretching exercises, manual therapy, and bracing.

8. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition where the median nerve is compressed as it travels through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. This compression often results from repetitive hand movements, wrist anatomy, or underlying health conditions such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, and pain in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers, as well as weakness in the hand and difficulty gripping objects. Carpal tunnel syndrome can significantly impact hand function and daily activities, requiring treatment to relieve pressure on the median nerve and restore normal function.

• Causes and Risk Factors: Repetitive hand movements, wrist anatomy, and health conditions like diabetes.
• Symptoms: Numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and fingers, especially at night.
• Treatment Methods Used by PTAs: Nerve gliding exercises, wrist strengthening, manual therapy, and ergonomic education.

9. Hip Bursitis

Hip bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that reduces friction in the hip joint. This condition can result from overuse, injury, poor posture, or underlying conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Symptoms include pain on the outer part of the hip, tenderness, and discomfort that worsens with activities like walking, climbing stairs, or lying on the affected side. Hip bursitis can limit mobility and interfere with daily activities, making it essential to seek treatment to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

• Causes and Risk Factors: Overuse, hip injury, poor posture, and underlying conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
• Symptoms: Pain on the outer part of the hip, tenderness, and pain that worsens with activity.
• Treatment Methods Used by PTAs: Strengthening and stretching exercises, manual therapy, and activity modification.

10. Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Tear

An ACL tear is a common knee injury, especially in athletes, involving the tearing of the anterior cruciate ligament. This ligament is crucial for stabilizing the knee during dynamic movements. An ACL tear often occurs due to sudden stops, changes in direction, or landing improperly from a jump. Symptoms include a loud popping sound at the time of injury, severe pain, swelling, and knee instability. An ACL tear can significantly impair knee function and athletic performance, often requiring surgical intervention and extensive rehabilitation to restore stability and strength.

• Causes and Risk Factors: Sudden stops or changes in direction, jumping, and landing improperly.
• Symptoms: A popping sensation in the knee, severe pain, swelling, and instability.
• Treatment Methods Used by PTAs: Strengthening exercises, balance training, manual therapy, and functional exercises.

11. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Patellofemoral pain syndrome is pain around the kneecap caused by imbalances in the muscles supporting the knee. This condition is often triggered by overuse, improper alignment, muscle weakness, or repetitive stress on the knee joint. Symptoms include a dull, aching pain around the front of the knee, particularly during activities such as running, squatting, climbing stairs, or sitting for long periods. Patellofemoral pain syndrome can limit physical activity and require targeted exercises, manual therapy, and adjustments to movement patterns to alleviate pain and restore knee function.

• Causes and Risk Factors: Overuse, improper alignment, muscle imbalances, and obesity.
• Symptoms: Pain around the kneecap, especially when sitting, squatting, or using stairs.
• Treatment Methods Used by PTAs: Strengthening and stretching exercises, manual therapy, and education on proper mechanics.

12. Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot, causing heel pain. This condition is often the result of overuse, excessive standing, flat feet, high arches, or wearing inadequate footwear. Symptoms typically include sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, especially during the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of inactivity. Plantar fasciitis can significantly impact daily activities and mobility, requiring treatments such as stretching exercises, orthotics, and physical therapy to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

• Causes and Risk Factors: Overuse, flat feet, high arches, and prolonged standing.
• Symptoms: Sharp heel pain, especially in the morning, and stiffness.
• Treatment Methods Used by PTAs: Stretching exercises, manual therapy, and orthotics education.

13. Achilles Tendinitis

Achilles tendonitis is inflammation of the Achilles tendon, causing pain at the back of the leg. This condition commonly results from overuse, sudden increases in physical activity, tight calf muscles, or improper footwear. Symptoms include pain and stiffness along the Achilles tendon, especially in the morning or after exercise, swelling, and tenderness to the touch. Achilles tendinitis can limit mobility and athletic performance, often requiring treatments such as stretching and strengthening exercises, rest, and physical therapy to alleviate pain and promote healing.

• Causes and Risk Factors: Overuse, tight calf muscles, and sudden increases in activity.
• Symptoms: Pain and stiffness along the Achilles tendon, swelling, and tenderness.
• Treatment Methods Used by PTAs: Stretching and strengthening exercises, manual therapy, and activity modification.

14. Hamstring Strain

Hamstring strain is a tear in the hamstring muscles, commonly occurring in athletes. This injury often results from sudden, forceful movements such as sprinting, jumping, or sudden changes in direction. Symptoms include a sudden sharp pain in the back of the thigh, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking or extending the leg. Hamstring strains can significantly impact athletic performance and daily activities, requiring treatments such as rest, ice, compression, stretching, and strengthening exercises to promote healing and prevent recurrence.

• Causes and Risk Factors: Sudden movements, poor flexibility, and muscle imbalances.
• Symptoms: Sudden pain in the back of the thigh, swelling, and bruising.
• Treatment Methods Used by PTAs: Stretching and strengthening exercises, manual therapy, and gradual return to activity.

15. Sciatica

Sciatica is pain radiating along the sciatic nerve, typically caused by a herniated disc or spinal stenosis. This condition occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down through the legs, becomes compressed or irritated. Symptoms include sharp, shooting pain that travels from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg, as well as numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness in the affected leg. Sciatica can significantly impact mobility and quality of life, often requiring treatments such as physical therapy, stretching exercises, manual therapy, and medication to alleviate pain and improve function.

• Causes and Risk Factors: Herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and sedentary lifestyle.
• Symptoms: Pain radiating from the lower back to the leg, numbness, and tingling.
• Treatment Methods Used by PTAs: Stretching and strengthening exercises, manual therapy, and postural education.

16. Stroke

A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, leading to brain damage. This interruption can be caused by a blocked artery (ischemic stroke) or the rupture of a blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). Symptoms of a stroke include sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body; confusion; difficulty speaking or understanding speech; vision problems; dizziness; and loss of balance or coordination. A stroke is a medical emergency that can result in long-term disabilities or death, requiring immediate treatment to restore blood flow and minimize brain damage. Rehabilitation often includes physical therapy to help regain mobility, strength, and function.

• Causes and Risk Factors: High blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, and heart disease.
• Symptoms: Sudden numbness, confusion, difficulty speaking, and loss of balance.
• Treatment Methods Used by PTAs: Mobility training, strength exercises, balance training, and functional rehabilitation.

17. Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects movement. This condition is caused by the progressive loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain, leading to symptoms such as tremors, muscle stiffness, slow movement, and impaired balance and coordination. As the disease advances, it can also cause non-motor symptoms like cognitive decline, mood changes, and sleep disturbances. Parkinson’s disease significantly impacts daily activities and quality of life, often requiring a combination of medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications to manage symptoms and improve function.

• Causes and Risk Factors: Genetic factors, environmental exposures, and age.
• Symptoms: Tremors, stiffness, slow movement, and impaired balance.
• Treatment Methods Used by PTAs: Gait training, strength and flexibility exercises, and balance training.

18. Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, specifically the brain and spinal cord. In MS, the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective myelin sheath that covers nerve fibers, leading to inflammation and damage. This disrupts the communication between the brain and the rest of the body. Symptoms vary widely but can include fatigue, difficulty walking, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness, vision problems, and cognitive changes. Multiple sclerosis can significantly impact daily life, with symptoms often worsening over time. Treatment typically involves medications to manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease, as well as physical therapy to maintain mobility and function.

• Causes and Risk Factors: Genetic predisposition, viral infections, and environmental factors.
• Symptoms: Muscle weakness, fatigue, vision problems, and coordination issues.
• Treatment Methods Used by PTAs: Strengthening exercises, balance training, and energy conservation techniques.

19. Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders affecting movement and muscle tone, often caused by brain damage before or during birth. This condition results from abnormal brain development or injury to the developing brain, leading to impairments in motor skills, coordination, and posture. Symptoms of cerebral palsy can vary widely and may include spasticity, muscle stiffness, involuntary movements, and difficulties with balance and coordination. Cerebral palsy can impact daily activities and overall quality of life, often requiring a multidisciplinary approach involving physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other treatments to manage symptoms and improve function.

• Causes and Risk Factors: Premature birth, infections during pregnancy, and birth complications.
• Symptoms: Muscle stiffness, involuntary movements, and coordination issues.
• Treatment Methods Used by PTAs: Mobility training, stretching, strengthening exercises, and assistive devices.

20. Spinal Cord Injury

A spinal cord injury results from damage to the spinal cord, affecting mobility and sensation. This damage can occur due to trauma, such as a car accident or a fall, or from medical conditions like tumors or infections. Symptoms vary depending on the level and severity of the injury but can include loss of movement, loss of sensation, difficulty breathing, and loss of bladder or bowel control. Spinal cord injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis below the site of the injury, significantly impacting daily life. Treatment often involves emergency medical care, rehabilitation, and adaptive technologies to maximize independence and quality of life.

• Causes and Risk Factors: Trauma, falls, sports injuries, and motor vehicle accidents.
• Symptoms: Loss of movement, sensation, and function below the injury site.
• Treatment Methods Used by PTAs: Mobility training, strengthening exercises, and assistive devices.

21. Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a condition resulting from a sudden blow or jolt to the head, causing damage to the brain. This injury can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. Symptoms of TBI can include headaches, confusion, dizziness, memory problems, mood changes, and loss of consciousness. Severe TBIs can lead to long-term complications or disabilities affecting cognition, physical abilities, and emotional well-being. Treatment often involves a combination of medical interventions, rehabilitation therapies, and support services to help individuals recover and manage the effects of the injury.

• Causes and Risk Factors: Falls, motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries, and violence.
• Symptoms: Cognitive impairment, headaches, dizziness, and motor dysfunction.
• Treatment Methods Used by PTAs: Mobility training, strength exercises, balance training, and cognitive strategies.

22. Vertigo

Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or dizziness, often caused by inner ear problems. This condition occurs when there is a disturbance in the balance mechanisms of the inner ear, such as with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), Meniere’s disease, or vestibular neuritis. Symptoms of vertigo include a feeling of moving or spinning, imbalance, nausea, and vomiting. Vertigo can significantly affect daily activities and quality of life, requiring treatments like balance training, vestibular rehabilitation exercises, and education on safety techniques to manage symptoms and improve stability.

• Causes and Risk Factors: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), Meniere’s disease, and vestibular neuritis.
• Symptoms: Spinning sensation, imbalance, nausea, and vomiting.
• Treatment Methods Used by PTAs: Balance training, vestibular rehabilitation exercises, and education on safety techniques.

23. Bell’s Palsy

Bell’s palsy is a sudden onset of facial muscle weakness or paralysis, usually affecting only one side of the face. This condition occurs when the facial nerve, which controls the muscles of the face, becomes inflamed or compressed, often due to viral infections, diabetes, or upper respiratory infections. Symptoms include a sudden drooping of the facial muscles, inability to close the eye on the affected side, drooling, and loss of facial expressions. Bell’s palsy can significantly impact daily activities and facial functions, typically requiring treatments such as facial exercises, manual therapy, and eye care education to promote recovery.

• Causes and Risk Factors: Viral infections, diabetes, and upper respiratory infections.
• Symptoms: Sudden facial drooping, inability to close the eye, and drooling.
• Treatment Methods Used by PTAs: Facial exercises, manual therapy, and education on eye care.

24. Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in specific areas of the body. This disorder often coexists with other symptoms such as sleep disturbances, memory issues, and mood disorders like anxiety and depression. The exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors that affect how the brain processes pain signals. Fibromyalgia can significantly impact daily life and overall quality of life, often requiring a comprehensive treatment approach including physical therapy, exercise, medication, and lifestyle modifications to manage symptoms and improve function.

• Causes and Risk Factors: Genetics, infections, and physical or emotional trauma.
• Symptoms: Widespread pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive difficulties.
• Treatment Methods Used by PTAs: Aerobic exercise, strengthening exercises, manual therapy, and relaxation techniques.

25. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a group of lung diseases that cause breathing difficulties. This condition includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, both of which obstruct airflow and make it difficult to breathe. Common causes of COPD include long-term exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, and occupational dust and chemicals. Symptoms include shortness of breath, chronic cough, mucus production, and wheezing. COPD is a progressive disease that can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life, often requiring treatments such as medication, pulmonary rehabilitation, oxygen therapy, and lifestyle changes to manage symptoms and improve breathing.

• Causes and Risk Factors: Smoking, exposure to pollutants, and genetic factors.
• Symptoms: Shortness of breath, chronic cough, wheezing, and chest tightness.
• Treatment Methods Used by PTAs: Breathing exercises, aerobic conditioning, and education on energy conservation.

Start Your Journey Towards a Fulfilling Career as a PTA with Brookline College Today!

This article provided an in-depth look at the role of physical therapist assistants (PTAs) in the rehabilitation process, emphasizing their essential contributions to patient care. We explored the top 25 conditions treated by PTAs, ranging from musculoskeletal issues like osteoarthritis and low back pain to neurological disorders such as stroke and Parkinson’s disease. For each condition, we outlined the causes and risk factors, common symptoms, and the treatment methods PTAs use, including exercise programs, manual therapy, and patient education on assistive devices.

PTAs are vital members of the healthcare team, working closely with patients to help them regain mobility, strength, and function. They provide personalized care, support, and encouragement throughout the rehabilitation process, significantly improving patients’ quality of life. PTAs enable patients to achieve their recovery goals more effectively and efficiently, playing a crucial role in the overall success of the rehabilitation process. Check out what a day in the life of a PTA is all about if you’re inspired by the work PTAs do and are considering a career in healthcare. PTAs not only make a meaningful difference in patient’s lives but also enjoy a dynamic and fulfilling career. Brookline College offers a comprehensive Physical Therapist Assistant program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in this rewarding career. Get started today!