What does a physiotherapy assistant do?

A physiotherapy assistant, also known as a physical therapy assistant, is a health professional who works under the direction and supervision of a licenced physiotherapist. They assist the physiotherapist in providing treatment to patients recovering from injuries or support for those with physical disabilities. They may be tasked with preparing treatment areas, setting up equipment or assisting patients with specific exercises. A physiotherapy assistant plays an important role in helping patients recover their mobility and manage pain.

Physiotherapy assistant skills and qualifications

A successful physiotherapy assistant may have various skills and qualifications matching the prerequisites for your job opening, including:

• Interpersonal skills like empathy, friendliness and the ability to build a rapport with patients
• Strong verbal communication and active listening skills
• Knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy and physiology
• Attention to detail to ensure treatment plans are followed accurately
• Physical stamina to move and stand most of the working day and assist patients in moving and performing exercises

Physiotherapy assistant experience requirements

The experience required for a physiotherapy assistant role may vary depending on the size of your practice and the job responsibilities. Many physiotherapy assistant diploma programs include co-op placements, where the student can combine education with practical experience. They may have also worked part-time or volunteered in clinics or hospitals to enhance their skills. Some roles that require more technical knowledge may require more experience in the field. Consider your top priorities for the job and design the experience requirements accordingly.

Physiotherapy assistant education and training requirements

After graduating high school, a physiotherapy assistant should complete a diploma program at a community college or vocational school. They may also register with a professional body in the province where they intend to work. Many physiotherapy assistant diploma programs include co-op placements.

Physiotherapy assistant salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, a physiotherapy assistant in Canada can expect to earn an average salary of $46,088 yearly. This varies depending on the location, experience, and size of the company hiring.

Job description samples for similar positions

If this physiotherapy assistant job description information does not match your company’s specific employment needs, consider these job descriptions for similar positions:

• Occupational therapy assistant
• Medical assistant

Physiotherapy assistant job description FAQs

What qualities does a successful physiotherapy assistant have?

Specific soft skills can contribute to the success of a physiotherapy assistant. In addition to the skills listed above, a good candidate should have emotional resilience to help them cope with patients who might be upset or distressed. People who enjoy helping others often do well as physiotherapy assistants because interacting with patients is an important part of the job.

What is the difference between a physiotherapy assistant and a rehabilitation assistant?

A physiotherapy assistant is one type of rehabilitation assistant that works with a licenced physiotherapist to help patients recover from musculoskeletal injuries or to help them manage a physical disability.  

Rehabilitation assistants have a broader range of knowledge and work with patient treatment plans designed by occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists and physiotherapists.

What makes for a good physiotherapy assistant job description?

A well-written physiotherapy assistant job description provides specific details about the position and describes duties and responsibilities clearly and concisely. Additional tasks or qualifications may exist for the physiotherapy assistant role, depending on your business needs. Use this guide as a starting point for your customized job description.