ABOUT PHYSIOTHERAPY
Physiotherapy is a recognized, evidence-based health profession that plays
a key role in the health of individuals and populations across the care continuum.
Physiotherapy has been proven to be effective in the assessment, diagnosis, treatment and management of acute
and chronic conditions, the prevention of injury and disability, and in promoting health and wellbeing.
Some common conditions where physiotherapy can help:
Heart and lung disease related sequelae
Musculoskeletal injuries such as sprains, strains and fractures
Stroke, brain injury, spinal cord and nerve injury
Cancer related sequelae
Incontinence and pelvic dysfunction
Chronic pain
Pre-operative preparation and post-surgery recovery, for example in joint-replacement
Chronic conditions including diabetes, arthritis and osteoporosis
For a full description of physiotherapy in Canada, read the Description of Physiotherapy in Canada 2012.
STRENGTHENING SOCIETY
THROUGH PHYSIOTHERAPY
THROUGH PHYSIOTHERAPY
WHAT IS A PHYSIOTHERAPIST?
Physiotherapists (sometimes known as PTs or physios) work with people in one-on-one or group-based settings. They provide treatment in all health care settings in Ontario including: hospitals, long-term care facilities, home care, community-based clinics, schools, private practice clinics and primary care networks. Working with patients, physiotherapists promote independence and prevent injuries and disability. Physiotherapy treatment can include:
Therapeutic exercises
Manual therapy
Acupuncture and other modalities
Self-management
PHYSIOTHERAPIST ASSISTANTS
Physiotherapist Assistants (PTAs) are trained to assist in the provision of physiotherapy services under the direction and supervision of a registered physiotherapist. In Ontario many PTAs receive training through college based programs. For a list of PTA programs who are accredited or in the process of being accredited visit the Physiotherapy Education Accreditation of Canada website.
Benefits of Physiotherapy
Decrease pain
Improve joint mobility
Increase strength and coordination
Improve cardiorespiratory functionARTICLES ON THE BENEFITS OF PHYSIOTHERAPY
Read articles from Ontario physiotherapists about their specific practice area or populations that they treat.
Whether you are living with a chronic illness, recovering from a work injury or suffering after that weekend hockey game, physiotherapy can improve your quality of life and make a difference in your ability to live an active, healthy lifestyle.
Discover more about how physiotherapy can help with many conditions, including the following:
VALUE OF PHYSIOTHERAPY
Research shows that not only does physiotherapy treatment benefit patients, but it is also a valuable, cost-effective component of the Ontario health care system. Physiotherapy helps promote and achieve efficacy, sustainability and access in the health care system across the province.
