Introduction

Physical and occupational therapists face unique challenges when completing continuing education requirements. Not only must they fulfill state-specific licensing requirements, but they also need to stay current with rapidly evolving evidence-based practices, specialized treatment techniques, and technological advances in rehabilitation. This guide highlights the most valuable CE resources specifically for PT and OT professionals, with an emphasis on quality, accreditation, and practical application.

Understanding PT and OT Continuing Education Requirements

Before exploring specific resources, it’s helpful to understand the general landscape of requirements:

• State-specific requirements: Most states require between 20-40 hours of continuing education for PTs and OTs per renewal period (typically 2 years)
• APTA/AOTA approval: Many states require courses to be approved by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) or American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)
• Specialty requirements: Some states mandate specific topics like ethics, jurisprudence, or pain management
• Format limitations: Many states restrict the number of hours that can be completed through self-study or online learning

Top Online Learning Platforms for Therapists

MedBridge Education

MedBridge stands out as a premium online resource specifically designed for rehabilitation professionals:

• Comprehensive library: Over 2,000 evidence-based courses across multiple specialties
• Certification preparation: Specialized tracks for board and specialty certifications
• Live webinars: Regular live sessions that fulfill synchronous learning requirements
• Patient education: Includes a patient engagement platform with customizable exercise programs
• Top-tier instructors: Courses taught by recognized leaders in physical and occupational therapy
• Unlimited access: Annual subscription model provides unlimited course access
• Approvals: APTA, AOTA, and state board approved in most jurisdictions

Best for: Therapists seeking comprehensive, high-quality education with premium production values and practical application.

PhysicalTherapy.com / OccupationalTherapy.com

These sister platforms provide specialized content for their respective professions:

• Cost-effective: Unlimited access with an annual membership
• Specialty tracks: Organized learning paths for various specialties
• Timely topics: Regular updates with current research and emerging practices
• Text and video formats: Materials designed for different learning preferences
• Approvals: APTA, AOTA, and most state board approvals

Best for: Therapists needing to complete a high volume of CE credits cost-effectively without sacrificing quality.

Continued and RehabEdge

These platforms offer specialized therapy content with a strong clinical focus:

• Practical focus: Courses emphasize clinical application and immediate implementation
• Pricing options: Both subscription and individual course purchase options
• Multi-disciplinary approach: Content that addresses inter-professional collaboration
• Mobile optimization: Well-designed for learning on mobile devices

Best for: Clinicians who prefer focused, practical courses with immediate clinical application.

In-Person and Hybrid Learning Opportunities

APTA and AOTA Conferences and Workshops

Professional association events provide both CE credits and networking opportunities:

• APTA Combined Sections Meeting (CSM): The largest annual gathering of physical therapists
• AOTA Annual Conference & Expo: The premier event for occupational therapy professionals
• State chapter events: More accessible local and regional conferences and workshops
• Specialty section meetings: Focused learning in areas like neurology, orthopedics, or pediatrics

Best for: Therapists who value networking, hands-on learning, and the collaborative environment of in-person events.

Clinical Specialty Certification Courses

Advanced certification preparation courses often provide substantial CE credits:

• Manual therapy certifications: Programs like NAIOMT, Maitland, McKenzie, or Paris approaches
• Neurodevelopmental treatment (NDT): Specialized courses for neurological rehabilitation
• Hand therapy: Preparation courses for Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) examination
• Vestibular rehabilitation: Comprehensive certification programs in vestibular therapy
• APTA specialist certification preparation: Courses for OCS, NCS, PCS, and other specialties

Best for: Mid-career therapists looking to advance their expertise and credentials while fulfilling CE requirements.

University-Based Continuing Education

Many physical and occupational therapy programs offer continuing education:

• Advanced weekend courses: Intensive learning experiences led by faculty experts
• Post-professional certifications: Structured programs resulting in university-backed credentials
• Alumni discount programs: Special rates for graduates of the institution
• Access to research facilities: Hands-on experience with cutting-edge equipment and techniques

Best for: Therapists seeking rigorous, evidence-focused content with strong academic foundations.

Free and Low-Cost CE Options

Manufacturer and Vendor Training

Many equipment manufacturers and vendors offer approved CE courses:

• Assistive technology vendors: Training on latest mobility and adaptive equipment
• Rehabilitation equipment manufacturers: Courses on proper utilization of therapeutic equipment
• EMR/documentation systems: Training that focuses on effective documentation practices

Note: While often free or low-cost, these courses may have commercial bias, so balance with other educational sources.

Professional Association Member Benefits

APTA and AOTA memberships include CE benefits:

• Journal CE: Credits for reading and completing assessments on journal articles
• Member-exclusive webinars: Free or discounted access to online learning
• Special interest groups: Specialized content through section/academy memberships
• Conference discounts: Reduced rates for major educational events

Hospital and Employer-Sponsored Education

Many employers offer educational benefits:

• In-service training: Internal education that may qualify for CE credit
• Lunch and learns: Vendor or specialist presentations
• CE allowances: Financial support for external continuing education
• Journal clubs: Structured discussion groups that may qualify for CE in some states

Specialized CE Resources by Practice Area

Orthopedic Therapy

Key resources for therapists focusing on musculoskeletal practice:

• Evidence in Motion (EIM): Offers fellowship programs and standalone courses
• International Spine and Pain Institute (ISPI): Specialized in pain science education
• Therapy Network Seminars: Manual therapy and orthopedic treatment approaches

Neurological Rehabilitation

Resources for therapists specializing in neurological conditions:

• NeuroRecovery Training Institute: Advanced neurological rehabilitation techniques
• Neuro-IFRAH: Specialized in hemiplegic rehabilitation approaches
• NeuroCom Academy: Balance assessment and treatment education

Pediatric Therapy

Resources specifically for pediatric practitioners:

• Sensory Integration Education: Specialized in sensory processing approaches
• Pediatric Therapy Network: Offers various pediatric-focused courses and workshops
• Therapro: Education on pediatric assessment and intervention tools

Evaluating Course Quality and Relevance

With so many options available, consider these factors when selecting CE courses:

• Instructor credentials: Courses taught by recognized experts typically provide higher-quality content
• Evidence-based content: Look for courses that cite current research and clinical practice guidelines
• Learning objectives: Clear, measurable objectives indicate well-structured content
• Format suitability: Match learning formats (video, text, hands-on) to your learning preferences
• Time investment vs. value: Consider both credit hours and practical knowledge gained
• State board approval: Verify that courses meet your specific state requirements

Maximizing Your CE Investment

Strategic Planning for CE Completion

Approach your continuing education with intentionality:

• Professional development mapping: Align CE choices with your career goals and growth areas
• Specialty balance: Mix courses across your areas of practice and interest
• Format diversification: Combine online learning with in-person experiences for comprehensive development
• Learning community: Share courses with colleagues to enable discussion and implementation support

Tracking and Documenting CE Effectively

Maintain organized records of your continuing education:

• Digital certificate storage: Scan and save all completion certificates securely
• Course content archive: Retain key handouts and resources for future reference
• Implementation notes: Document how you’ve applied learning in clinical practice
• Dedicated tracking system: Use specialized tools like Course Counter to monitor CE progress

Conclusion

Continuing education is more than a licensure requirement—it’s an opportunity to enhance your clinical skills, expand your professional network, and improve patient outcomes. By strategically selecting from the diverse resources available to PT and OT professionals, you can fulfill requirements while meaningfully advancing your practice.

Remember that the best CE strategy combines diverse learning methods, addresses your specific practice needs, and fits within your budget and schedule constraints. Whether you prefer comprehensive online platforms, immersive in-person workshops, or a combination of both, the resources highlighted in this guide provide excellent starting points for your continuing education journey.