Physical therapist aides care for patients recovering from injuries or disease. They work under the supervision of a physical therapist.

Physical therapist aides usually do tasks that are indirectly related to patient care. For example, they set up and clean treatment areas. They organize and clean equipment. They maintain equipment and furniture to keep it in good working condition.

They also help patients move to or from a therapy area. For example, they may push them in a wheelchair or assist them in walking. They help patients in dressing or undressing, and putting on and removing supportive devices. They also help position and secure patients to therapy equipment.

Physical therapist aides who work in hospitals change bed linens. They help feed patients, and bathe patients on bed rest.

Physical therapist aides also do clerical tasks. They answer phones, order supplies, and fill out insurance forms. Sometimes they record treatment details in patients' charts.

In some states, physical therapist aides may teach and assist patients with exercises to help improve functioning and mobility. They may also provide treatments such as light, sound, water, or electrical modalities. Aides record treatment given and equipment used. They may accompany assistants when they report patients' responses to physical therapists.