AHL 912 - Becoming a Physical Therapy Aide

2.4 Continuing Education Units (CEU). This course is not for Credit(s).

This course is designed to enable the student, who is preparing for a career as a physical therapy aide, to learn about the operation of the human body, varying specific disorders, as well as physical therapy treatments for these disorders. Topics to be covered include identification of the roles, functions, and differences between physical therapists, physical therapy assistants, and physical therapy aides; physical therapy-specific language; discussion of the principles of strength, aerobic, and range-of-motion exercise in relation to patient treatment; and assessment of several balance and coordination disorders along with applicable treatments for both child and adult patients.

Course Objectives:

1. identify the roles, functions, and differences among physical therapists, physical therapy assistants, and physical therapy aides;

2. recall physical therapy-specific terminology and language as pertaining to the field and practice;

3. discuss the principles of strength, aerobic, and range-of-motion exercise in relation to patient treatment; and

4. assess several balance and coordination disorders and applicable treatments for both child and adult patients.