What is the role of a physical therapy aide?

The role of a physical therapy aide primarily involves assisting physical therapists with technical duties while not providing direct patient care. This means that aides may help prepare treatment areas, maintain equipment, and support therapists during sessions but they are not qualified to assess patients or carry out independent therapeutic interventions.

This distinction is significant because it highlights the aide's supportive role in the therapy environment rather than as an independent practitioner. Physical therapy aides often work under the supervision of licensed physical therapists, helping to ensure that the therapy environment is safe and efficient, and that therapists can focus on providing care tailored to each patient's needs. Their responsibilities are crucial for maintaining the workflow but do not extend to clinical actions that require professional training.