Physical Therapist Assistant how-to
How to Teach a Home Exercise Program
Progress continues between visits only if patients do their exercises correctly at home.
Progress continues between visits only if patients do their exercises correctly at home. In short: choose; demonstrate; have, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Choose a few key exercises from the plan of care.
Demonstrate each exercise and explain why it matters.
Have the patient perform each one while you correct form.
Give written or video instructions with sets, reps and frequency.
Use teach-back: ask the patient to explain and show the routine.
Check how the program is going at the next visit and adjust as directed.
Safety reminders for physical therapist assistants
- Use gait belts and proper guarding for every mobility task
- Check vital signs when patients have cardiac or blood pressure concerns
- Use good body mechanics and ask for help with heavy patients
- Clean equipment between patients
Key terms
Plan of care · ROM · AROM and PROM · Gait training · Assistive device · Weight-bearing status: see the full physical therapist assistant glossary.