What Do Physical Therapist Assistants Do? Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs) work under the direction of a physical therapist (PT) to provide services that relieve pain and improve mobility for patients who are recovering from physical injuries, diseases, or disabilities. PTAs may assist PTs by performing routine treatments such as helping patients with stretching exercises or using exercise equipment, applying hot or cold packs, administering traction and massage, and training in …Read More