What is the difference between sport physical therapist and an athletic trainer?

Degree and boards: A sports physical therapist is a physical therapist with a focus on sports medicine and athletics. They are typically board certified with an advanced professional degree in physical therapy. An athletic trainer can also be certified, but typically does not have an advanced professional degree. Until recently in California, seeing a physical therapist requires a prescription.

Level of training: Generally, Physical Therapists have a more stringent 4 year training program followed by licensing. They can gain additional levels of training, skill and knowledge (ex. DPT=Doctor of PT). With athletic trainers, the licensing is less stringent and quality/knowledge levels can vary dramatically. Sports PT's are PT's with subspecialty in sports injury and training.