If you’re thinking of working in healthcare and are wondering what the job of a PT tech actually do? then you’re at the right spot. Physical therapy (PT) tech is an integral part of the physical therapy team who is a key player in aiding patients and therapists in achieving optimal recovery.
The field of healthcare has numerous career options however, the job as a physical therapy tech can be especially satisfying for those who love working with patients in helping patients recover from injuries, and being part of a team.
Let’s take a look at the job of is a PT Tech does as well as the reasons why it’s a good career option for you.
What Exactly Does a PT Tech Do?
What can an PT tech do day-to-day? The job may differ based on the location (such as an office, hospital or a sports rehabilitation centers) However, generally the job involves supporting physical therapists to provide direct patient care.
Here are the main duties and responsibilities of an PT tech:
- Help Patients Perform Exercises techs help patients with exercises for physical therapy that are prescribed by the physical therapist. They ensure that exercises are completed properly and safely, as well as adjusting moves or positions to enhance effectiveness and minimize injuries.
- Set Up Equipment Another crucial task for a PT tech is creating a therapy space equipped with the equipment needed. It doesn’t matter if it’s for the training of strength or mobility exercises, or therapies for pain relief they ensure that all equipment is in place prior to every session.
- Monitor the progress of patients PT techs are usually accountable for monitoring the progress of patients. They observe how patients react to treatments, observing improvement or decreases. This information is relayed the physical therapist who makes changes to the treatment program.
- Assist with Administrative Tasks in addition to providing hands-on care for patients, PT techs also help in the administrative aspect of things. They may schedule appointments, create the patient’s records, or assist in the verification of insurance.
- Offer Encouragement and Support for the Emotional an essential part that job. Many patients in physical therapy suffer from anxiety or pain The PT tech will provide encouragement and motivation to ensure they remain positive throughout their rehabilitation.
How can a PT Tech Different from Physical Therapists?
If you’re wondering what a professional PT tech does and what they do, it’s crucial to know the difference between a physical therapy technician and licensed physical therapy (PT). A PT tech aids the physical therapist, but does not offer diagnosis or develop treatment plans. Physical therapy professionals are who are responsible for evaluating patients and diagnosing ailments, and creating custom treatment plans.
While the PT tech aids in the implementation of these plans however, the physical therapist will be the person who makes sure that the whole approach is in place. Thus, in essence the PT tech assists and the physical therapist is the one who leads.
Skills and Qualifications Needed to Be a PT Tech
Are you wondering if you’ve got what is required to become the perfect PT tech? It’s important to possess the appropriate abilities and credentials. Here are the top items you’ll require:
- Education and Training The majority of technicians are high school graduates and many seek certificates in physical therapy assistant or related areas. It is not necessary to have an education degree, however having an education in health sciences or sports medicine or the field of physical therapy assistant could be helpful.
- Physical stamina PT techs have a lot of time in their feet, helping patients to do exercises as well as installing equipment. If you’re fit and like to be active then this could be the perfect work for you.
- Excellent Communication Skills A PT tech has to be a great communicater. They will be working in close contact with the patients knowing their needs and making patients feel at ease during treatments. Communicating with other members of your staff members, including physical therapists, and other medical professionals is also essential.
- Organized Abilities PT techs should be organized when it comes to the care of patients. This means tracking equipment, keeping records of patients and aiding in appointment scheduling.
- Patience and empathy One of the most essential traits of the technician in the field of physical therapy is empathy. Patients seek physical therapy to heal from illness, and a lot of them are suffering or angry. As a PT tech you must be patient and understanding to assist clients through these emotional states and keep their healing process in order.
Where Does a PT Tech Work?
A PT tech could work in different environments, based on their preferences and prior experience. The most common workplaces include:
- Outpatient Clinics: A lot of PT techs are employed in outpatient clinics of physical therapy in which they help patients who are recovering from surgery or injuries.
- Hospitals: PT techs can be employed in hospitals to assist patients recovering from surgery stroke rehabilitation, post-surgery recovery, or any other physical therapy requirements.
- The Sports Rehabilitation Institute: A few Techs in PT work with athletes to help athletes recover from injuries resulting from sports.
- Nursing Homes and Long-Term Care facilities: Within these types of facilities PT techs aid older patients or those suffering from chronic ailments.
The kind of workplace that you choose will affect your work responsibilities daily and the people whom you deal with and your professional growth.
What is the Salary of a PT Tech?
The compensation that a PT tech can differ according to their location, experience, and the type of workplace where they work. Based on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) the physical therapy assistants, who play a similar position as PT techs, make the median of $60,000 per year.
In the case of PT techs who usually provide support, but do not have the same license, wages tend to be lower, and range from about $30,000-$45,000 annually. However, PT techs who have more than a decade of experience or who work in highly-demand areas might earn more particularly in hospitals or clinics that specialize.
Career Growth and Opportunities for PT Techs
The most thrilling benefits of working as an PT tech, is that there’s the opportunity to advance your career. Many PT techs utilize their positions as a means to getting licensed physical therapy (PTs). If you have the proper qualifications and experience you could take a course in physical therapy and obtain the qualifications to become an authorized physical therapist.
In addition, PT techs could move into different roles in healthcare including leadership positions or specialist therapies such as pediatric therapy or sports rehabilitation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is an PT technology do during a daily-to-day environment?
A PT technician assists patients to exercise and equipment setup as well as monitors their progress. She also helps with administrative tasks all under the direction of physical therapist. - How can how do I get a PT tech?
The process of becoming a PT tech usually requires graduation from high school although many employers will prefer applicants with further training or accreditation in physical therapy assistant. Training on the job is usually provided in addition. - What’s the range of salaries to be an PT tech?
The average salary for a PT tech varies from $35,000 to $45,000 per year subject to factors such as work experience, location and the workplace. - What qualifications does a PT tech require?
A PT tech should possess great ability to communicate, physical stamina as well as organizational skills and compassion. A background in sports or health medicine could also be helpful. - Can an PT tech be a physical therapy therapist?
Many PT techs continue their education and training to become certified physical therapy (PTs).
Conclusion
What is an PT technician do? The job as an PT tech is vital in aiding patients recovering from surgeries or injuries by offering assistance hands-on during therapy, taking care of equipment and assisting the physical therapist in their treatment. Although the position may not carry the same responsibility as an accredited physical therapist, it is a crucial part in the process of recovery.
If you’re adamant about helping others get better and flourish in a health care setting, then becoming a physical therapy tech is a highly rewarding profession. It also opens the door to more opportunities within the area of physical therapy as well as other health-related careers.
The Impact of a PT Tech in Patient Recovery
As a PT tech you’re usually the first person patients meet when they go in to receive therapy. However, your job is more than simply assisting with exercises. You’re an integral component of their rehabilitation journey.
Patients usually arrive for Physical therapy sporting a variety of feelings: anger or frustration, as well as the fear of. A positive outlook and support could make the difference between a patient pushing through the pain and not giving up. Being patient, compassionate and accepting of their challenges can help make a welcoming environment where patients feel valued and heard.
Additionally, your attention to specifics could greatly affect the outcome of their rehabilitation. By monitoring how they react to exercise, making immediate adjustments and tracking the progress they make, you’re helping physical therapists customize the treatment plan to each patient. Making small changes could result in significant improvements for your patients.
Common Challenges PT Techs Face
Although the job as a tech in a gym may be extremely fulfilling however, it’s not without difficulties. Let’s look at some of the typical obstacles PT techs may confront:
Physical Demands
A job as a PT tech’s is physically demanding. You’re constantly on your feet all of the time helping patients lift and assist them as well as setting up equipment and ensuring that everything runs smoothly. Certain patients might require more assistance and this can be tiring especially for those with limited mobility.
Emotional Challenges
It is common to meet people suffering from pain or are frustrated when they are going through the process of recovery, which is often slow. Although emotional support is a part of the job, it’s difficult to witness people suffering and then not be able to provide a specific solution. This is the reason why emotional intelligence and resilience are crucial for any PT tech.
Long Hours
Many PT techs work long hours, including evenings or weekends. The sessions for physical therapy may have to be able to fit in with the schedules of patients and can be extended to times that aren’t typical for work. Flexibility is essential to succeed in this field.
Technology and PT Techs to stay current with technological advances
Technology continues to develop in the field of healthcare, PT techs also need to stay up-to-date with latest innovations and equipment in the area of physical therapy. The latest equipment and methods are constantly introduced to improve the patient’s experience, therefore being aware and flexible is an integral aspect of their job.
A few examples of the latest technology that PT techs may encounter are:
- Electrical Stimulation Machines can be used to help improve the recovery of muscles and decrease the pain. PT techs aid in setting up these devices and ensure that patients receive appropriate treatment.
- Ultrasound Therapy type of therapy utilizes ultrasound waves in order to heal injuries to the deep tissues. Techs in PT play an important role in the preparation of the equipment as well as ensuring that it’s properly applied during sessions with patients.
- Robotic-Assisted Therapy: At some advanced clinics, robots assist patients with their recovery from movement. Though these devices usually require physical therapists for supervision the patient, PT techs can help engage with the robots and monitor their progress.
- Wearable Technology: Equipment like smart braces or fitness trackers are gaining popularity in monitoring the recovery of patients in real-time. Techs in PT assist patients using these devices to track their activity and mobility.
Specializing as a PT Tech: Potential Career Paths
While most PT techs start with general-purpose settings, there is several specializations within physical therapy in which you can concentrate on your career. A specialization can result in greater levels of satisfaction as well as career advancement. Some examples include:
1. Sports Rehabilitation
If you’re a fan for fitness and sport and fitness, a career in sports rehabilitation might be a perfect match. In this field, PT technicians deal with athletes of all ages, from novices to professional athletes helping them recover from injuries such as fractures, sprains or concussions. It’s a fast-paced and exciting setting where you can witness the direct effect of your training on the performance of an athlete.
2. Pediatric Physical Therapy
Pediatric physical therapy PT techs treat children with neurological, developmental or physical disabilities. This field requires a lot of patience and creative thinking to make therapy enjoyable and exciting for patients who are young.
3. Geriatric Physical Therapy
The work of older adults typically is helping people recover from surgery or other mobility issues. A PT tech working in this area can aid in rehabilitation after hip replacements, and other surgeries for the orthopedic and also assist patients suffering from diseases such as stroke or Parkinson’s disease.
4. Orthopedic Physical Therapy
Orthopedic physical therapy is focused on the treatment of musculoskeletal issues. PT techs in this field aid in recovering from surgeries, fractures and joint discomfort, and other injuries to the musculoskeletal system. Their job is often to help patients recover their strength, mobility and functioning.
Networking and Continuing Education for PT Techs
For a tech in the field of PT maintaining your education and establishing your professional network are crucial in the development of your career. Although many PT techs begin their careers with the high school diploma or a basic certificate, pursuing advanced certifications or classes can lead to new possibilities.
For instance, you could think about:
- The Certifications of Physical Therapist Assisting (CPTA) Certain states have certification programs that assist PT techs develop their skills and knowledge, which gives them an advantage in competitive job markets.
- CPR as well as First Aid Training: Possessing CPR as well as first-aid certifications is usually demanded by employers in order to ensure the safety of patients during treatment sessions.
- Continuous education on Sports Medicine or Orthopedics: The courses that are specifically designed will help you become a better team player, especially in the context of clinics or other settings which focus on these areas.
Connecting with fellow professionals at conferences or local professional associations can be a great way to gain opportunities to grow your career and learn.
Conclusion: A Rewarding Career
A PT tech’s job is a job that’s about more than helping with exercises or putting equipment in place. It’s about making an actual impact on the lives of patients striving to heal from surgeries and injuries. Every day is a new challenge however the rewards of seeing patients gain confidence and mobility enormous.
If you’re helping with therapy sessions, keeping track of the progress of patients, or offering emotional assistance, you’re a vital element of the healthcare team that assists patients to recover. If you’re passionate about health care and enjoy working with people and are eager to take on a dynamic, hands-on role working as a PT technician can be a rewarding career option. With the potential for specificization and advancement in your career this is a good way for those looking to expand their knowledge and explore different career options in healthcare