This program includes the following areas: 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 Position; 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.

Program Note: This program is intended to train students for entry level Physical Therapy Aide positions or to prepare students for more formal longer term program.