Final answer:
PT and PTA students must practice under the supervision of a licensed PT to ensure competence and professional standards of care. Licensed PTs provide essential guidance and have advanced education in the mechanics of body movements, often with a specialization in sports injuries.
Step-by-step explanation:
A PT (Physical Therapist) student and a PTA (Physical Therapist Assistant) student must practice under the supervision of a licensed PT. This is essential for ensuring that the care provided meets professional standards and that the student gains practical experience in a controlled environment. In their practicum, it is crucial for the student to have a clear understanding of their ability to carry out the required activities, the character traits needed to be successful such as empathy, diligence, and professionalism, and how these experiences contribute to their overall educational and professional development.
These licensed PTs have intensive education, typically a master's degree or doctorate, which equips them to be highly trained experts in the mechanics of body movements. Many also specialize in areas such as sports injuries. The guidance of these professionals is pivotal to the training of PT and PTA students, who are preparing to handle similar responsibilities in managing muscular or joint injuries and other physical health issues.