 Lifespan
Youth
Physical Therapy Assistant
A physical therapy assistant provides direct
patient care under the supervision of a registered physical therapist.
A physical therapy assistant uses prescribed activities to help
patients recover physical function and strength lost through disease,
injury or other causes, and to relieve pain and promote healing.
Job responsibilities
Places of practice
Educational programs
Professional organizations
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Executes a treatment program within prescribed guidelines
including range of motion, ultrasound, whirlpool, therapeutic exercise,
endurance training, hydro and/or burn therapy, wheelchair and/or adaptive
equipment training.:
- This may include a prolonged stretch protocol including positioning
of patient and application of heat.
- Monitors treatment through joint range or muscle strength measurements.
- Documents course and response to treatment provided in medical records.
- Fabricates splints and inhibitive casts as needed.
- Fabricates assistive devices—special seating, sitting or standing
support platforms and foam wedges.
- Cleans and maintains equipment.
for a full list of physical therapy assistant education programs in the
United States visit the American
Physical Therapy Association Web site .
Professional organizations:
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