Physical Therapy Aide

You're the person who sets up the treatment area, cleans the equipment, and helps patients get on and off tables — all without a clinical license. It's the entry-level doorway into physical therapy, and you'll learn more about the human body by watching PTs and PTAs work than most people learn in a semester of anatomy. The pay is low, but the experience is invaluable if you're headed into the field.

What you'll actually do

• 01Set up treatment areas with exercise equipment, hot packs, and ultrasound machines
• 02Help patients transfer to treatment tables — your back will develop opinions about this
• 03Clean and sanitize equipment between patients (an endless cycle)
• 04Escort patients to and from the waiting room
• 05Maintain inventory of therapy supplies and linens
• 06Observe PTs and PTAs treating patients — free education if you're paying attention
• 07Answer the phone, schedule appointments, and file paperwork when the front desk is slammed

Career Path

Where this role sits in the bigger picture — and where it can take you.