An acute care hospital provides short-term treatment for patients with acute illnesses, injuries, or who are recovering from surgery. Physical therapists and physical therapist assistants in acute care hospitals treat a variety of patients, including those recovering from strokes, injuries, or surgeries. They help patients regain mobility and strength so they can transition to the next level of care. While salaries vary by state and experience, on average physical therapist assistants in acute care hospitals earn between $33,000 to $51,000 annually.