Job Title: Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) – Orthopedic Setting

Job Overview:

The Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) assists physical therapists in implementing treatment plans to help patients recover from musculoskeletal injuries, surgeries, and various orthopedic conditions. The PTA is responsible for performing prescribed therapeutic interventions, monitoring patient progress, and ensuring safety throughout rehabilitation. Working under the direction and supervision of a licensed physical therapist, the PTA helps improve patients’ mobility, strength, and function, with the goal of achieving optimal physical recovery.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assisting in Treatment Implementation:
  Implement exercise programs, therapeutic modalities (e.g., heat, cold, ultrasound, electrical stimulation), and manual therapy techniques as directed by the physical therapist.

• Patient Monitoring:
  Continuously monitor patients during therapy sessions to track their progress, report improvements or setbacks, and adjust treatment plans as necessary under the supervision of the physical therapist.

• Patient Education:
  Educate patients on exercises, posture correction, body mechanics, and pain management strategies to enhance the rehabilitation process and promote long-term recovery.

• Documentation & Reporting:
  Document patient progress and report findings to the supervising physical therapist. Ensure that progress notes, treatment records, and outcome measures are accurately recorded and maintained according to clinic policies and legal requirements.

• Patient Care:
  Assist patients with mobility and positioning, ensuring comfort and safety during therapy sessions. Help patients use therapeutic equipment such as weights, exercise bands, and assistive devices (e.g., walkers, crutches).

• Equipment Setup & Maintenance:
  Set up and maintain therapy equipment and ensure that the treatment area is organized and stocked with necessary supplies. Report any malfunctioning equipment to management.

• Collaboration:
  Work closely with physical therapists, physicians, and other healthcare providers to coordinate care and achieve the best possible outcomes for patients.

• Injury Prevention:
  Educate patients on proper body mechanics to avoid re-injury and promote recovery. Provide guidance on preventing future orthopedic issues by improving posture and strength.

• Provide Emotional Support:
  Encourage and support patients through their rehabilitation journey, maintaining a positive and motivating environment to boost patient morale.

Qualifications:

• Education:
  Associate’s degree in Physical Therapy Assistant program from an accredited institution.

• Licensure:
  Current state licensure (or licensure eligibility) as a Physical Therapy Assistant.
  Certification in Basic Life Support (BLS) may be required.

• Experience:
  Previous experience working in an orthopedic or musculoskeletal setting is preferred but not mandatory. On-the-job training may be provided.

• Skills & Abilities:

• Strong knowledge of therapeutic exercises and techniques specific to orthopedic rehabilitation.

• Ability to use physical therapy equipment and modalities effectively.

• Ability to follow detailed instructions and collaborate with other healthcare providers.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with patients and the healthcare team.

• Physical stamina to assist patients with movement and perform repetitive tasks.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to lift and move patients, assist with transfers, and engage in physically demanding tasks during therapy.

• Regular standing, walking, and bending.

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple patients efficiently.

Pay range 24.00 to 27.00 per hour.

If interested in applying, please apply by emailing your resume to our director, Paula, at mangairellirehab@aol.com.