Physical therapist assistants help patients to relieve their pain and increase their strength and mobility. They work under the supervision of a physical therapist.

Physical therapy assistants work with people who have back pain, arthritis, heart disease, or broken bones. They also work with people who have recently had surgery.

Before working with a patient, assistants confer with a physical therapist about the treatment plan. Under the direction of therapists, assistants provide many types of treatment (or modalities), such as:

• Exercises
• Massage
• Hot and cold applications
• Ultrasound or electrical stimulation
• Stretching

They teach patients how to do exercises and use support devices such as crutches and walkers. They may also train patients how to use and care for braces or prostheses (artificial body parts).

Physical therapist assistants record patient responses to treatment. They measure a patient's range of motion in joints or body parts. They share results with physical therapists.

Physical therapist assistants keep the treatment areas clean and organized. They assist patients in moving to and from treatment areas. Assistants sometimes help patients in dressing or undressing.

Physical therapist assistants sometimes have clerical tasks. They may answer the phone, order supplies, or fill out forms for insurance companies.