Physical Therapist

Physical Therapist

The work involves administering physical therapy treatments under medical direction and technical supervision. Work is performed under the general supervision of a more senior professional employee. The incumbent administers all forms of physical therapy which will tend to re-educate and strengthen paralyzed muscles of the patients, relieve pain and spasms and possible prevention of physical deformities. Supervision is exercised over lower-ranking non-professional employees. Does related work as required.

Administers massage, muscle training and coordination, corrective exercises and applies varied forms of heat therapy; Teaches family and patients through demonstrating how to apply heat; Tests and grades patients' muscle power and functional activities; Instructs patients how to exercise, walk, stand, balance and use supportive devices; Observes patients reactions to treatment and prepares written reports of treatment, progress, and results; Explains orthopedic recommendations of physician to the patient; Instructs patients in the use of mechanical devices, such as shoulder wheels, pulleys, parallel bars, walking ramps and steps.

Thorough knowledge of skeletal anatomy and principals involved in the application of active and passive motion related to physical conditions resulting from disease, injury, or birth defects; thorough knowledge of the fundamentals of therapeutic massage and its relationship to medical rehabilitation; good knowledge of the use of the equipment and the methods used in electrotherapy; thermotherapy, and hydrotherapy; ability to demonstrate all types of physical therapy treatment and to teach families and patients home-type treatment; ability to prepare written reports; ability to follow oral and written instructions; reliability; tact; initiative; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.