Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine Aide

HTH E34 - Physical Therapy and Sports Medical Aid-

Physical Therapy Aides are responsible for assisting physical therapists (PT) and physical therapy assistants (PTA) in a clinical setting, working with patients on the technical aspects of stretching, mobility, and exercise.  Under the direction and supervision of a PT or PTA, they also prepare treatment areas, order certain equipment and supplies, and assist in moving and transporting patients. 

Physical therapy aides may be employed in a variety of settings, including outpatient clinics, hospitals, nursing homes, home care agencies, community health centers and sports medicine training rooms.

This comprehensive 60-hour Physical Therapy Aide program prepares students for a career in the growing field of physical therapy, covering basic orthopedic anatomy, anatomical terms and concepts, and frequently-used stretches and exercises.  Students will also perform and be evaluated on common required clinical skills for physical therapy aides, including patient positioning, transferring, ambulation using crutches/walker and cane, range-of-motion exercises and obtaining accurate vital signs.

Key areas and topics include:

  • Introduction to physical therapy; history and evolution of physical therapy; role of the PT aide in the rehabilitation team
  • Ethical and legal issues affecting the physical therapy aide
  • Abbreviations and medical terminology
  • Anatomical positions and anatomical movements
  • Structures of the musculoskeletal system, and function of each (bones, ligaments, tendons, muscles, joints)
  • Basic anatomy of major joints (shoulder, knee, hip)
  • Common orthopedic injuries
  • Range of motion (ROM) and strengthening (isometric, concentric, eccentric) exercises
  • Types of treatment modalities
  • Ambulation and gait training
  • Measuring vital signs
  • Strategies for effective patient communication and interaction

Note: As there is currently no national certification standard for physical therapy aides, exam preparation is not included as part of program objectives. 

Career Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for physical therapy assistants (PTA) and physical therapy aides is projected to grow 16 percent from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. Demand for physical therapy services is expected to increase in response to the healthcare needs of an older population and growing rates of chronic conditions such as diabetes and obesity.

Salaries vary depending on experience, hours, and location. The median annual wage for physical therapist aides was $34,520 in May 2024.

Educational Requirements
High school diploma or equivalent

Key areas and topics include:

  • Introduction to physical therapy; history and evolution of physical therapy; role of the PT aide in the rehabilitation team
  • Ethical and legal issues affecting the physical therapy aide
  • Parts and types of effective communication
  • Abbreviations and medical terminology
  • Anatomical positions; structures of the musculoskeletal system and function of each (bones, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, muscles, joints)
  • Basic anatomy
  • Range of motion exercises
  • Ambulation and gait training
  • Measuring vital signs; disorders of the circulatory
  • Strengthening and exercise
  • Types of physical therapy modalities
  • Stretching and direction of movement
  • Common anatomical injuries and the associated modalities
Students will also perform and be evaluated on common clinical skills necessary to function as a physical therapy aide, including patient positioning, and transfer, use of transfer belt, ambulation using crutches/walker and cane, range of motion exercises and obtaining accurate vital signs.

Spring 2026
HTH E34 301
February 2 to April 15, 2026
Mondays and Wednesdays
6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
H Building, Room H-124

In the event we are unable to meet in person, labs will be held virtually and led by your instructor.

Tuition: $999* (Textbooks not included)
* = Additional college registration and technology fees may apply.  

For more information, please call (708) 456-0300, Ext. 3500, or email us.