Physical Therapy Assistant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of healthcare, the demand for physical therapy assistants has never been higher.

As our understanding of physical well-being advances, the need for skilled professionals who can facilitate, augment, and ensure the efficacy of physical therapy treatments grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a physical therapy assistant?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager aiming to define the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the world of physical therapy,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable physical therapy assistant job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Physical Therapy Assistant Duties and Responsibilities

Physical Therapy Assistants work under the guidance and supervision of Physical Therapists.

They help patients who are recovering from injuries and illnesses to improve movement and manage pain.

The duties and responsibilities of a Physical Therapy Assistant include:

• Assist physical therapists in providing therapy services
• Help patients with specific exercises as part of the plan of care
• Observe patients before, during and after therapy, noting the patient’s status and reporting it to a physical therapist
• Help patients to use therapy equipment safely
• Use techniques such as massage and stretching to relieve pain and improve mobility
• Educate patients and their families about what to expect from and how to cope with the recovery process
• Maintain patient records, documenting the treatment provided and the patient’s progress
• Assist patients with mobility issues, helping them move around and perform daily activities
• Follow all health and safety regulations to provide a safe and clean therapy environment

 

Physical Therapy Assistant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Physical Therapy Assistant to join our healthcare team.

The Physical Therapy Assistant will be responsible for providing direct patient care under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist.

This includes implementing treatment plans, documenting patient progress, and maintaining a safe and clean working environment.

Successful candidates should have a strong understanding of anatomy and physiology, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work closely with patients of various ages and backgrounds.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist Physical Therapists in providing direct patient care, including exercises, treatments, and equipment use
• Record patient’s progress and response to treatment
• Teach and demonstrate techniques that can be practiced at home
• Ensure all equipment and supplies are clean and in proper working condition
• Help patients with mobility issues, moving them from one area to another as necessary
• Follow all health and safety regulations and maintain a safe working environment
• Communicate effectively with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals

 

Qualifications

• Completion of an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program
• Current Physical Therapist Assistant license
• Proven work experience as a Physical Therapy Assistant
• Knowledge of physical therapy principles, practices, and procedures
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage time effectively and prioritize tasks
• Physical endurance and ability to lift and move patients
• Basic computer skills for documentation and record-keeping

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Physical Therapy Assistant
• Work Environment: This position will primarily be conducted in a clinical setting. It may require occasional weekend or evening shifts.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Physical Therapist or Rehabilitation Services Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Physical Therapy Assistant Do?

Physical Therapy Assistants, often referred to as PTAs, work under the guidance and supervision of Physical Therapists.

They are part of a healthcare team that provides rehabilitative care to people with physical injuries or conditions that impact their ability to move and perform daily activities.

PTAs help patients perform specific therapeutic exercises as part of their treatment plans.

They also provide hands-on therapy, such as massaging muscles or mobilizing joints, to alleviate pain and improve physical function.

A major part of their role involves educating patients and their families about the recovery process and how they can contribute to it, including guiding patients on how to use assistive devices like crutches or wheelchairs.

They monitor the patients’ progress, keep detailed reports about each patient’s condition, and inform the physical therapist about any changes or issues that arise.

Sometimes, PTAs might be responsible for preparing the treatment area or equipment, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for the patients.

In addition, they often use therapeutic modalities such as electrical stimulation, ultrasound, or heat and cold therapy to help relieve patients’ pain and speed up their recovery process.

Every day, Physical Therapy Assistants play a critical role in supporting patients on their journey to regain strength, mobility, and confidence.

 

Physical Therapy Assistant Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Physical Therapy Assistant should have the skills and qualifications that comply with your job description, such as:

• Thorough knowledge of physical therapy principles and practices to assist in the development and implementation of patient treatment plans
• Exceptional interpersonal skills to build rapport and trust with patients, encouraging them through challenging treatment processes
• Excellent communication skills to effectively relay information to patients, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals
• Ability to accurately observe and document patient progress, making necessary adjustments to treatment plans under the supervision of a physical therapist
• Physical stamina and strength to assist patients with exercises and mobility, often requiring to stand, bend, lift and walk for long periods
• Patience and empathy to understand and support patients who may be struggling with pain or disability
• Problem-solving skills to identify issues in a patient’s progress and adjust treatment plans accordingly
• Basic knowledge of medical software for record-keeping and appointment scheduling

 

Physical Therapy Assistant Experience Requirements

Physical Therapy Assistants, or PTAs, typically graduate from an accredited PTA program which usually takes about two years to complete.

This program includes both classroom instruction and clinical experience, providing foundational knowledge and hands-on skills in physical therapy.

Many PTAs gain additional experience through internships or part-time roles within healthcare facilities, sports clubs, or private physical therapy practices.

This hands-on experience allows them to apply the theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom and further develop their practical skills.

Those with 1 to 2 years of experience are often considered for entry-level positions in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and outpatient clinics.

They are expected to have a sound knowledge of physiotherapy techniques and patient care, along with the ability to follow a physical therapist’s instructions accurately.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience typically have honed their patient management skills and have a deep understanding of various therapeutic procedures.

They are often trusted with more complex cases and may have additional responsibilities such as training new PTAs or assisting in administrative tasks.

Physical Therapy Assistants with over 5 years of experience often possess leadership skills and have experience supervising and guiding junior staff.

They are usually considered for senior or supervisory roles within their workplaces and may be involved in strategizing therapy plans for patients.

 

Physical Therapy Assistant Education and Training Requirements

Physical Therapy Assistants typically require an associate’s degree from an accredited physical therapy assistant program.

These programs involve both classroom and clinical components, where students gain practical experience under the supervision of experienced physical therapists.

Key areas of study often include anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, and kinesiology.

Following completion of the degree, all states require Physical Therapy Assistants to be licensed or certified.

This process generally involves passing the National Physical Therapy Exam, which is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.

In addition to these fundamental requirements, Physical Therapy Assistants may also undertake further training or certification in specialized areas, such as geriatric or pediatric physical therapy.

Continuing education and skills enhancement are crucial in this role, as the field of physical therapy continues to evolve with advances in medical technology and understanding.

 

Physical Therapy Assistant Salary Expectations

A Physical Therapy Assistant earns an average salary of $58,520 (USD) per year.

The salary can fluctuate based on factors such as the level of experience, specializations, geographical location, and the type of healthcare facility they are employed in.

 

Physical Therapy Assistant Job Description FAQs

What are the essential skills a Physical Therapy Assistant needs?

Physical Therapy Assistants should possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with patients and other healthcare professionals.

They need to be compassionate and patient, as they will be working with individuals who are in pain or struggling with physical disabilities.

Besides, they should have a good understanding of human anatomy and physiology, and be competent in executing therapeutic exercises.

 

Do Physical Therapy Assistants need a degree?

Physical Therapy Assistants typically require an associate’s degree from an accredited physical therapy assistant program.

After completing the degree, they must also pass a national exam to obtain licensure or certification, which is required in most states to practice as a Physical Therapy Assistant.

 

What should you look for in a Physical Therapy Assistant resume?

Firstly, check if the candidate has an associate’s degree from an accredited program and the required license or certification.

Look for experience in a physical therapy setting, which indicates practical skills.

Also, pay attention to any specialties they may have, such as pediatric or geriatric physical therapy.

Soft skills like empathy, patience, and excellent communication should also be considered.

 

What qualities make a good Physical Therapy Assistant?

A good Physical Therapy Assistant is empathetic, patient, and has a genuine desire to help people recover from their physical limitations.

They should be able to motivate and encourage patients throughout their recovery process.

Good Physical Therapy Assistants are also detail-oriented, ensuring they follow the treatment plan accurately and observe any changes in a patient’s condition.

 

What are the daily duties of a Physical Therapy Assistant?

A Physical Therapy Assistant’s daily duties usually involve assisting Physical Therapists in providing therapy sessions, executing parts of the treatment plan like specific exercises or stretches, monitoring patients’ progress, and updating patient records.

They may also help patients with mobility, such as moving to different areas of the treatment facility.

Patient education is another important part of their role, teaching patients how to use therapeutic equipment and do exercises at home.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the true nature of being a Physical Therapy Assistant.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about following a treatment plan.

It’s about helping to improve lives, one patient at a time.

With our go-to Physical Therapy Assistant job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to make your move.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precise job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every treatment, every exercise, every interaction is part of a larger journey.

Let’s help others on their path to recovery. Together.