Key Points:

• Chiropractic Assistants help chiropractors, while Physical Therapy Technicians assist physical therapists.
• Chiropractic Assistants typically earn a lower salary range compared to Physical Therapy Technicians.
• The demand for both Chiropractic Assistants and Physical Therapy Technicians is growing.
• Chiropractic Assistants may require on-the-job training or a certificate program, while Physical Therapy Technicians often need an associate's degree or a specialized certification.
• The training for Chiropractic Assistants is generally less expensive and shorter than the training required for Physical Therapy Technicians.

Are you interested in a career in the healthcare field but don't want to go through the extensive education and training required to become a doctor or nurse? If so, you may want to consider a career as a chiropractic assistant or a physical therapy technician. Both of these professions offer rewarding opportunities to work closely with patients and help them improve their health and well-being. In this blog post, we will explore the similarities and differences between these two professions to help you determine which one may be the best fit for you.

Chiropractic Assistant

To become a chiropractic assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some states may require certification or licensure, which can be obtained through a state-approved program or examination. The length of these programs varies, but they generally range from a few months to a year. Courses in medical terminology, anatomy, and office procedures are typically included in the curriculum.

Physical Therapy Technician

To become a physical therapy technician, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may prefer candidates with an associate degree or certification in physical therapy assisting. These programs usually take about two years to complete and include courses in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and therapeutic techniques.

Chiropractic Assistant vs Physical Therapy Technician: Career Outlook and Salary

Career Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of chiropractic assistants is projected to grow 9 percent from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is attributed to the increasing demand for chiropractic services as more people seek alternative treatments for musculoskeletal conditions.

For physical therapy technicians, the BLS projects a 29 percent growth in employment from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the increasing elderly population and the need for physical therapy services to help individuals recover from injuries and surgeries.

Salary

The salary for chiropractic assistants and physical therapy technicians can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and employer. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for chiropractic assistants was $34,520 in May 2020, while the median annual wage for physical therapy technicians was $48,090.

Final Thoughts

Both chiropractic assistants and physical therapy technicians play important roles in the healthcare field and have rewarding careers helping patients improve their health and well-being. If you are interested in administrative and clinical tasks in a chiropractic setting, becoming a chiropractic assistant may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy working directly with patients and assisting with therapeutic exercises, a career as a physical therapy technician may be a better fit. Consider your interests, education, and career goals to determine which path is the best fit for you.

Dreambound's educational programs are conveniently available in diverse locations, ensuring accessibility for aspiring individuals. For a more comprehensive understanding of the exciting opportunities within the realms of these two vocations, we invite you to explore further details by visiting:

• Chiropractic Assistant in California
• Physical Therapy Technician in California
• Chiropractic Assistant classes near you