Physical Therapy Aide InternAt — Walnut Physical Therapy and Performance P.C.

This internship is an excellent opportunity for pre-physical therapy students, kinesiology students, exercise science students, or individuals interested in pursuing a career in healthcare to gain firsthand experience in a clinical environment while learning from experienced physical therapists.

Our interns are exposed to a wide variety of orthopedic and sports-related conditions and will have opportunities to observe how physical therapists evaluate, treat, and progress patients throughout their rehabilitation.

Responsibilities

• Assist physical therapists with preparing patients and treatment areas
• Set up and clean treatment areas and exercise equipment
• Assist patients with prescribed exercises under the direction of a physical therapist
• Learn proper exercise techniques and equipment use
• Assist with therapeutic exercise, stretching, balance, strengthening, and functional activities
• Help maintain a clean, organized, and professional clinic environment
• Prepare hot/cold packs and other treatment modalities as directed
• Assist with equipment organization and clinic maintenance
• Observe patient evaluations and treatment sessions
• Learn basic principles of anatomy, biomechanics, exercise prescription, and rehabilitation
• Interact professionally and compassionately with patients of different ages and abilities
• Perform administrative and clinic-support tasks as needed

Training:

Hands-on exposure to outpatient physical therapy
Mentorship/feedback/check- ins from experienced physical therapists
Opportunity to observe/shadow PTs with patient evaluations and treatments
Exposure to a broad range of orthopedic and sports conditions
Opportunity to learn therapeutic exercises and rehabilitation principles
A supportive environment for students pursuing physical therapy
Experience that can help students better understand the profession and prepare for future DPT applications

Learning outcome:

Observe licensed physical therapists during evaluations and treatments
Gain exposure to orthopedic, sports, post-operative, balance, and neurological rehabilitation
Develop a better understanding of clinical decision-making
Learn how rehabilitation programs are progressed based on patient goals and performance
Gain experience working directly with patients in a professional healthcare setting
Learn about different diagnoses, treatment techniques, and exercise progressions
Develop communication and patient-interaction skills
Ask questions and receive mentorship from practicing physical therapists
Gain valuable clinical experience for future DPT program applications