Physical therapist aides aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty. They support physical therapists and physical therapist assistants by cleaning and sanitizing treatment areas and equipment, washing linens and performing clerical tasks. They are also usually responsible for moving patients to and from treatment areas. These professionals are crucial to a well-run physical therapy office. 

But each aide’s job description will look different depending on where they work. For instance, Fred Tuppings works at the Shepherd Center, a hospital in Atlanta that specializes in spinal cord and brain injury rehabilitation. His job involves a lot of patient interaction, and he works on a team that transports patients to and from treatment areas, plus helps them shower, dress and eat meals. According to Tuppings, a passion for helping people is a necessity for doing this job; patience, self-motivation and energy don’t hurt, either. 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 3.0% employment growth for physical therapist aides between 2022 and 2032. In that period, an estimated 1,300 jobs should open up.

Physical therapist aides generally need a high school diploma or their GED. Many aides receive on-the-job training. Tuppings says he experienced a steep learning curve after getting hired to work at the Shepherd Center and underwent an extensive orientation training. He still takes continuing education classes, as well as annual competency exams