Nature of the Work

Physical therapist assistants (PTAs) are licensed healthcare providers who work as part of a team to provide physical therapy interventions under the direction and supervision of a licensed physical therapist. PTAs assist the physical therapist in the treatment of individuals of all ages and cultural backgrounds who have medical problems or health-related conditions that limit their ability to move and perform functional activities in their daily lives. A PTA should have a genuine desire to help others and be able to motivate them to do their best.

The duties of a PTA include assisting physical therapists in performing interventions for patients using heat, cold, electricity, ultrasound, water, massage, therapeutic exercise, gait training, balance, coordination, and functional activities. Physical therapist assistants must maintain constant effective communication with the physical therapist regarding patient progress and response to treatment and record this information in patients' medical records.