Physical Therapist – Outpatient Orthopedics
Location: Belle Plaine, IA
Schedule: 5 × 8-hour shifts per week
Type: 13-Week Contract | Start Date: ASAP
Position overview
An Outpatient Physical Therapist is needed to join a busy orthopedic rehabilitation team in Belle Plaine, IA, providing evidence-based care to a diverse caseload of musculoskeletal and post-operative patients. This role is ideal for a clinician who enjoys autonomous practice, structured productivity, and collaborative work in an outpatient setting.
What you’ll do
Perform comprehensive outpatient orthopedic evaluations, including detailed movement, strength, and functional assessments.
Develop and implement individualized treatment plans using therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, neuromuscular re-education, and patient education.
Manage and build a caseload to an average productivity of approximately 9 patient visits per day.
Treat a wide range of conditions, including ACL and meniscus injuries, rotator cuff pathology, total joint replacements, lumbar and cervical spine disorders, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, SI joint dysfunction, thoracic outlet syndrome, fractures, postural dysfunction, and headache-related musculoskeletal issues.
Document evaluations, daily treatments, progress notes, and discharge summaries accurately in the EHR (NextGen).
Educate patients on injury prevention, home exercise programs, activity modification, and long-term self-management strategies.
Collaborate with referring providers and the rehab team to ensure coordinated, high-quality care aligned with best-practice guidelines.
Maintain professional standards, adhere to clinic policies, and support a positive, patient-centered environment.
Conditions commonly treated
ACL and meniscus tears (non-operative and post-surgical)
Rotator cuff injuries and shoulder dysfunction
Total hip, knee, and shoulder replacements
Low back pain, disc herniation, spinal stenosis
Plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, foot and ankle dysfunction
Osteoarthritis and osteoporosis-related limitations
SI joint dysfunction, thoracic outlet syndrome
Fractures, stress fractures, postural dysfunction, and musculoskeletal headache presentations
Qualifications
Active or eligibility for Iowa Physical Therapist license at time of offer.
Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate in Physical Therapy from an accredited program.
BLS/BCLS certification.
New graduates welcome; at least 1 year of outpatient orthopedic experience preferred.
Strong orthopedic evaluation, manual therapy, and therapeutic exercise skills.
Proficiency with electronic documentation; experience with NextGen EHR is an advantage.
Excellent communication, time-management, and documentation abilities, with a focus on patient engagement and outcomes.
Role highlights
If you are a motivated Physical Therapist seeking a focused outpatient orthopedic role in Belle Plaine, IA, this contract offers an excellent opportunity to build your skills, manage a consistent caseload, and impact patient function and quality of life.