A Physical Therapy Assistant supports a PT in helping patients who
are recovering from injuries manage pain and regain their mobility. Their main
duties include creating and carrying out treatment plans under Pt's POC, preparing therapy equipment for appointments, massaging and stretching patients' muscles, using modalities as indicated and sanitizing therapy areas.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Physical Therapy Assistants work under and report to their supervising Physical Therapists. They deliver quality and effective treatment plans under supervision of PT.

Therapy Assistant Duties includes the following:

• Family/staff education and training

• Carry out therapeutic modalities as indicated in POC

• Nursing education/inservice on patient performance, transfer/ambulation status

• Observe the patients they are working with before, during and after therapy and report changes to the Physical Therapist/nursing staff.

• Assign HEP for the patient and upgrade/downgrade as needed.

• Upgrade/downgrade treatment plans and/or devices, such as walkers, and other equipment to help patients regain movement and reduce pain.

• Use a variety of techniques, including stretching exercises and massage, to manage pain and promote mobility.

• Assist patients when moving to and from the therapy area.