What's in a PT's Bag? Essentials by Setting
From home health to the sideline, what physical therapists and PTAs carry, and why each item earns its spot.
Every PT has a kit: the goniometer that lives in a scrub pocket, the gait belt that goes to every home visit, the tape that comes out at every practice. What you carry says a lot about where you work. Below are six composite example bags, built from items commonly used in each setting, with a one-line note on why each one earns its place. Then we want to see yours.
In this section
Home Health PT Bag Essentials: When Your Car Is Your Clinic
Home health physical therapists treat in living rooms, kitchens and hallways. Here's a composite kit built for working out of a car.
Outpatient Ortho PT Bag: What Lives in Your Clinic Locker
The clinic has the tables and weights. Here's a composite list of the personal kit ortho PTs keep within reach.
Sports PT Field-Side Bag: Ready Before the Whistle
Covering practices and games means working outside the clinic. A composite kit for the sideline, track or gym.
New Grad PT Essentials: Your First-Year Bag
Starting your first PT job? A composite list of what to bring in week one, and what can wait.
PTA Bag Essentials: What Physical Therapist Assistants Carry
PTAs carry out the plan of care visit after visit. A composite kit for clinic, SNF and home settings.
Travel PT Packing List: The Bag That Moves With You
Thirteen weeks, a new city and a new clinic. A composite list for travel PTs and PTAs.