Applying cold and heat therapy and assisting patients with ambulation are common responsibilities of a medical assistant. These activities are part of the field of physical therapy. For a full program of physical therapy, a physician generally refers a patient to a licensed physical therapist. However, a physician may request that you assist with some forms of physical therapy, including:

• Applying cold and heat
• Teaching basic exercises
• Demonstrating how to use a cane, walker, and crutches
• Demonstrating how to use a wheelchair
• Discussing with the patient specific therapies for use at home