Physical Therapy Aide Job Market

Job Duties

Physical therapy aides keep a physical therapy clinic operating smoothly. Their daily duties include the following responsibilities:

• Greeting and checking in patients
• Scheduling appointments
• Setting up equipment for patient use during appointments
• Transporting patients
• Cleaning and organizing physical therapy facilities
• Observing patients and documenting their responses and progress
• Assisting physical therapists with selected procedures

Work Environment

Physical therapy aides spend a good deal of time interacting with patients, both verbally and physically, so professionalism, compassion, and attention to detail are key. Since physical therapy clinics (like all healthcare facilities) are sanitary spaces, conscientious cleaner-uppers are valued. You’ll likely spend time on the computer and/or phone, but you’ll be on your feet often, too. Dress codes usually require scrubs or comfortable, semi-professional clothing, and work hours vary based on the facility.

Pay Scale

The salary for this role varies based on facility, location, and experience, but the average annual income is $49,180.* Employment generally includes health benefits and paid time off.

Industry Demand

Whether we like it or not, our population is increasing in age, diabetes, and obesity. That means our need for physical therapy is increasing as well. Physical therapy aides are some of the most in-demand workers in the growing healthcare industry, with job openings expected to increase 24% by 2031.* It’s also worth noting your career advancement opportunities, which include physical therapy assistant, massage therapist, and exercise physiologist.