What are those initials after your physical therapist’s name and what do they mean?
The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)requires that physical therapists follow specific guidelines when identifying their credentials.
That way, there is no mistake as to the professional credentials of your PT.
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There are other certifications your PT may have, and they may include other letters.
That makes my official name Brett Sears, PT, MS, Cert.
MDT stands for “Certified in Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy.")
These clinical specialists have specific letters after their names as well.
Certification lasts for ten years, and then re-certification is necessary.
For example, physical therapists trained in theMcKenzie Method of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapyinclude extra letters after their name.
Those certified in the McKenzie Method include “Cert.
Clinical hand therapists may treat people with tendon issues of the hand, fingers, and wrists.
They may treat people withcarpal tunnel syndromeor after aColles' fracture.
These specialists use the term “CHT” for clinical hand specialist.
Physical therapists also treat patients with swelling due tolymphedemaof the upper or lower extremities.
They may use the initials “CLT” for certified lymphedema therapist.
This means you may havequestions to ask about your treatment.
It also means that if you’re unsure about the letters after their name, just ask.
So, if you are wondering what those letters after your physical therapist’s name mean, just ask.
In the physical therapy world, it can be difficult to know who is who.
Having letters after our names helps people identify our roles and our degrees held.
American Physical Therapy Association
American Board of Physical Therapy Specialists.
American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties.APTA specialist certification.
