Physical Therapist Assistants
Physical therapist assistants help patients regain physical function after illness or injury.
Physical therapist assistants must be supervised by a physical therapist. They help provide services that improve patients' mobility and reduce their pain.
Wages
$21.28 per hour on average
Outlook
The outlook is Data not available
Education & Training
Associate degree is common.
Related Programs (Current training programs available)
On the Job
Work Activities
Instruct and assist patients with exercises to improve functioning and mobility.
Confer with physical therapists and other staff about treatment plans for patients.
Provide treatments such as massage or heat or cold packs.
Provide electrical treatments, such as electrical stimulation or ultrasound.
Record patients' responses to treatment and report them to the physical therapist.
Evaluate patients to determine effects of treatments.
Secure patients to therapy equipment.
Fit patients for braces and other supportive devices, such as crutches.
Train patients to use equipment such as braces, prostheses, or crutches.
Prepare patients for therapy. Help them to and from treatment areas.
Record which treatments were given and the equipment used.
Keep treatment areas clean and organized.
Assist patients with dressing, and putting on and removing supportive devices.
Administer traction to relieve neck and back pain.
Prepare treatment areas and equipment for use by physiotherapists.
Perform chest physiotherapy to remove mucus from lungs. Assist patients in breathing exercises.
Perform clerical tasks, such as answering the phone, ordering supplies, or filling out forms.
Career Pathways
Therapeutic Services
Similar Careers
Athletic Trainers Fitness Trainers and Aerobics Instructors Home Health Aides
Find Jobs
Form validation
Stop form submission with keystroke
Want to explore more careers?
