Athletic trainer vs Physical therapist

The biggest difference is that athletic trainers work with athletes and physical therapists work with any patient who has been injured or is dealing with an illness that impacts their physical wellbeing.

Another key difference is that athletic training includes preventing future injuries, while physical therapy is generally focused on recovery. In addition, a physical therapist may practice independently, while an athletic trainer often works with other medical professionals to diagnose issues and create treatment plans.

The role of an athletic trainer consists of preventing, evaluating, diagnosing, and/or treating acute or chronic injuries under the direct supervision of a physician. Most often, this role coincides with the rehabilitation program of an injured athlete.

While physical therapists typically evaluate, diagnose, and treat a variety of injuries, conditions, and surgeries. This treatment typically serves to minimize pain, restore strength or range of motion, and improve overall function.

To work as a physical therapist, you will want to complete a doctoral-level program for physical therapy (DPT), which usually takes three years to complete once you have your bachelor's degree.

Once you've earned your DPT, in order to practice, you must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination administered by the Federation of State Board of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). An Athletic Trainer, however, only needs to have a bachelor's degree and pass the Certification (ATC).

Reflective of the additional schooling and accreditation, physical therapists earn more money on average than athletic trainers and have a greater number of job opportunities. The median national average for a physical therapist, for instance, is $89,440 a year compared to an athletic trainer, who averages $48,440 a year.