Physiotherapy assistant

Physiotherapy assistants work with patients to manage their condition and improve movement.


Typical Salary

£24,000 – £29,000

per year

Working Hours

37–42

hours per week

Career Area

Nursing auxiliaries and assistants

View related courses

Day-to-day tasks

As a physiotherapy assistant, you would:

  • talk to patients about their treatment plan
  •  show patients how to use mobility aids
  •  demonstrate and work through exercises with patients
  •  monitor progress and update records
  •  work closely with physiotherapists and other health professionals

Skills needed

  • sensitivity and understanding
  • the ability to work well with others
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • to be flexible and open to change
  • patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
  • customer service skills
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • knowledge of psychology
  • to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

How to get into this role

You can get into this job through:

  • a college course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role
  • applying directly

Career progression

With experience and further qualifications, you could:

  • become a senior physiotherapy support worker
  •  train to become an assistant practitioner
  •  take an accredited degree to qualify as a physiotherapist