Physical Therapy Assistant

A Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) works under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist (PT) to assist patients in recovering from injuries, surgeries, or conditions that affect their physical mobility.

Job Summary:

The Physical Therapy Assistant works directly with patients to implement physical therapy treatment plans as designed by the Physical Therapist. The PTA assists in improving patients’ mobility, strength, and overall physical function through various therapeutic interventions, exercises, and education. They play a key role in the rehabilitation process, ensuring patient progress and reporting feedback to the supervising Physical Therapist.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Patient Care:
   • Implement treatment plans as prescribed by the Physical Therapist.
   • Assist patients with exercises, stretches, and mobility tasks.
   • Educate patients on correct exercise techniques and safe use of equipment.
   • Monitor patients during treatments and adjust the therapy program as needed.
   • Provide hands-on support during therapeutic activities such as manual therapy or functional mobility exercises.
2. Treatment Documentation:
   • Record and document patient progress, responses to treatments, and any changes in condition.
   • Update patient files and treatment plans as necessary.
   • Communicate patient progress and concerns to the supervising Physical Therapist.
3. Equipment Maintenance and Setup:
   • Set up and maintain therapeutic equipment.
   • Ensure the proper use and cleanliness of equipment.
   • Assist in the safe transfer of patients to/from equipment or therapy areas.
4. Collaboration:
   • Work collaboratively with physical therapists, doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive patient care.
   • Provide feedback on treatment outcomes to help adjust therapy plans.
5. Patient Education:
   • Educate patients and their families about exercises, injury prevention, and lifestyle changes to aid in the recovery process.
   • Explain treatment techniques and their benefits in layman’s terms.
6. Other Duties:
   • Maintain professional knowledge by attending continuing education and training opportunities.
   • Follow all workplace safety and health regulations.
   • Assist in scheduling and preparing patients for their therapy sessions.

Required Qualifications:

• Associate’s degree in Physical Therapy Assisting from an accredited program.
• Current certification or licensure as a Physical Therapy Assistant (varies by state/country).
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification or equivalent.
• Strong understanding of anatomy, physiology, and therapeutic exercises.
• Good communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a healthcare team.
• Compassionate and patient-centered approach to care.

Desirable Skills:

• Experience in a healthcare or rehabilitation setting.
• Ability to operate physical therapy equipment.
• Bilingual or multilingual skills (depending on patient population).
• Strong interpersonal skills to work effectively with patients and other healthcare staff.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and move patients or heavy equipment when necessary.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and assist patients throughout the day.
• Ability to use physical therapy equipment and provide manual therapy techniques.

Full Time

Monday – Friday (No Weekends Required)
Salary range: $28.03 – $30.81