Massage is a commonly used tool in modern physical therapy. Massage can be used to help the body heal from injuries, to improve range of motion, and to reduce pain. Instruction in massage is part of high-quality physical therapy aide training programs like the one offered by Healthcare Career College. In this article we’ll explain more about the role of physical therapy aides and how massage is used in physical therapy.
Understanding Massage in Physical Therapy
Massage provides support to physical therapy processes, aiding in achieving treatment goals. Massage techniques offer a time-tested method of supporting long-term recovery, improving blood flow to desired areas and other healing responses in the patient’s body. By increasing blood flow, providing therapy to muscles and related structures, and otherwise helping the physical therapist achieve treatment goals, massage is a common part of the physical therapy process for everything from helping athletes recover from sports injuries to helping stroke victims regain their mobility.
It’s important to note that physical therapy used in massage is different from massage therapy. While the primary purpose of massage therapy is relaxation, massage in physical therapy is used as a treatment to help a patient recover from an injury, manage a medical condition, and become healthier overall.
The physical therapy aide is trained to play a variety of important roles in the provision of care, including aiding in massage provided by the physical therapist.
The Role of the Physical Therapy Aide
Physical therapy aides help the patient to perform assigned activities in the physical therapy process. They may need help achieving body awareness, increasing the accuracy of their exercises, or staying on track with the therapy process over the long term.
Physical therapy aides assist in patient transfer, documentation and administrative tasks related to treatment, and preparing treatment areas to facilitate the treatment process. Physical therapy aide jobs often provide understanding and experience that can further their work as aides. Proper training, including classroom and hands-on experience, leads to a better understanding of career goals in physical therapy for the future.
As they assist in the process, physical therapy aides may provide observations to the physical therapist, make important notes, and offer support for the patient that helps achieve overall treatment goals.
Because massage is such a common part of physical therapy programs, physical therapy aides are often trained in basic massage modalities and concepts.
Preparing for a Role as a Physical Therapy Aide
As a physical therapy aide, you’ll have the job satisfaction of knowing the work you do every day helps people get back to living healthier, happier lives. Enroll in the physical therapy aide program at HCC and be ready for this rewarding career!