What is Physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy is a primary care, autonomous, client-focused health profession dedicated to:

Improving and maintaining functional independence and physical performance,

Preventing and managing pain, physical impairments, disabilities and limits to participation; and

Promoting fitness, health and wellness.

What do Physiotherapists do?

Physiotherapists provide assessment, treatment and education for a wide range of health problems to ensure you make the most of your lifestyle. As people live longer and busier lives than ever before, it's not surprising that our bodies occasionally need assistance to stay in good working order. Physiotherapists can recommend the best way to treat problems with your muscles, bones and joints, circulatory, respiratory or nervous system. Physiotherapists can also advise you on ways to prevent health problems from occurring before they arise.

Every year physiotherapists assist thousands of Canadians of all ages, from babies to the elderly, in preventing and managing the effects of congenital diseases, illness, chronic diseases, neurological conditions, accidents and the stresses and strains of everyday life.

Physiotherapy - How it Works

Physiotherapy involves using a variety of techniques to help your muscles, joints, heart and lungs work to their potential. Physiotherapists work in partnership with individuals of all ages to break down barriers impending physical function. Physiotherapy can help individuals living with congenital or chronic diseases or other debilitating conditions and can assist those recovering from: surgery; illness; neurological conditions such as a stroke; injury; industrial or motor vehicle accidents; or age related conditions. The practice of physiotherapy is drug-free.

Fundamental to a physiotherapists' approach is an appreciation of your role in your own care. Physiotherapists work with you to integrate your care into your lifestyle. They are skilled in providing treatment, preventative advice, rehabilitation and care for people with long-term or terminal illness and will develop a full treatment plan to suit your unique needs.

Physiotherapists are university educated, regulated health professionals that play an important role within your health care team. To ensure physiotherapists across the country apply consistently high standards, the Canadian Physiotherapy Association, the Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulator and the physiotherapy colleges of each province regulate the practice of physiotherapists in the public interest.