DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: 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.
TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES: Administers massage, muscle training and coordination, corrective exercises and applies varied forms of heat therapy; Teaches family and patients through demonstration 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.
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS: 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 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