Description
Evaluate and treat ambulatory patients in an outpatient clinic using evidence-based rehabilitation to restore mobility, reduce pain, build strength, and address impairments from injury or disease through individualized plans of care.
- • Perform and document comprehensive outpatient evaluations to establish a PT diagnosis and plan of care.
- • Design and deliver individualized, evidence-based programs to restore function, reduce pain, and prevent dysfunction.
- • Reassess outcomes regularly and adjust interventions to maximize functional gains.
- • Provide therapeutic exercise, neuromuscular re-education, gait, and balance training.
- • Perform manual therapy, including soft-tissue and joint mobilization, and traction as indicated.
- • Apply modalities such as heat/cold, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound per clinical indications.
- • Instruct patients and caregivers in home exercise programs and self-management.
- • Educate on diagnosis, prognosis, body mechanics, ergonomics, and return-to-activity guidelines.
- • Review referrals, imaging, and histories; coordinate care with physicians and other providers.
- • Screen for red flags and refer when findings fall outside PT scope or require medical attention.
- • Obtain and document informed consent, including risks, benefits, and alternatives.
- • Set measurable goals and timelines; plan for and perform periodic reevaluations.
- • Test and record strength, range of motion, motor control, functional capacity, and cardiopulmonary response using standardized measures.
- • Fit and train in orthoses, braces, or assistive devices; coordinate modifications with an orthotist.
- • Document visits, outcomes, and billing in the EHR to support medical necessity and reimbursement.
- • Direct and supervise PTAs, rehab aides, and students to deliver safe, efficient care.
- • Plan discharges, transition patients to independent programs, and arrange follow-up or referrals.
- • Lead group sessions or injury-prevention classes as appropriate to the clinic population.
- • Collaborate on scheduling, authorizations, and plan-of-care compliance with front office or case managers.
- • Apply current evidence and participate in quality improvement or clinic-based research.
- • Refer patients to community resources, wellness programs, or support services.
- • Fabricate or adjust simple supports (e.g., taping, straps) and help maintain clinic equipment.
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
