Physical therapist assistants work under the direction and supervision of physical therapists. They help patients who are recovering from injuries and illnesses to regain movement and manage pain.

Typical work duties:

Physical therapist assistants typically do the following:

• Observe patients before, during, and after therapy, noting the patient’s status and reporting it to a physical therapist
• Help patients do specific exercises as part of the plan of care
• Treat patients using a variety of techniques, such as massage and stretching
• Use devices and equipment, such as walkers
• Educate patients and family members about what to do after treatment
• Clean treatment areas and set up therapy equipment
• Wash linens
• Help patients move to or from a therapy area
• Do clerical tasks, such as answering phones and scheduling patients

Requirements:

NY state required physical therapist assistant license or certification. Licensure typically requires graduation from an accredited physical therapist assistant program and passing the National Physical Therapy Exam for physical therapist assistants.