An Introduction to the Practice and Policies

of the Physical Therapist Assistant

Welcome to the exciting world of the Physical Therapy as practiced by the Physical Therapist Assistant. This text will provide you with an overview of this noble profession. The first chapters include an explanation of the ‘hands-on’ skills you will need to master early in your studies as well as the rationale for, and clinical application of, these skills.

The second half of the text will explore everything from our humble beginnings to our present practice; what we do as clinicians as well as why we do what we do and who we do it for.  Finally, we will also learn how we document for what we do and what policies govern all of the above.

Welcome – and enjoy your journey!