Physical Therapist Assistants at My Next Move for Veterans

Physical Therapist Assistants

Also called: Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA), Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA), Physical Therapy Technician, Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (LPTA)

In the military: see titles from the Air Force or Navy.

What they do:

Assist physical therapists in providing physical therapy treatments and procedures. May, in accordance with State laws, assist in the development of treatment plans, carry out routine functions, document the progress of treatment, and modify specific treatments in accordance with patient status and within the scope of treatment plans established by a physical therapist. Generally requires formal training.

On the job, you would:

Instruct, motivate, safeguard, and assist patients as they practice exercises or functional activities.
Observe patients during treatments to compile and evaluate data on their responses and progress and provide results to physical therapist in person or through progress notes.
Confer with physical therapy staff or others to discuss and evaluate patient information for planning, modifying, or coordinating treatment.