If you have chronic or acute pain from an injury, disease, or disorder, physiotherapy may help. Whether it’s mild discomfort or debilitating pain, physical therapy can offer relief and restore movement.
Physiotherapy is a varied treatment program designed to reduce pain and stiffness, increase strength and mobility, and generally support physical function. The exact nature of treatment will depend on the individual. Physiotherapists work closely with each client to prescribe therapies targeted to their unique circumstances.
Physical therapy can be both preventive and rehabilitative. Some of the common treatments include joint manipulation, heat and cold application, and targeted exercises. The complete range of treatment is quite broad, however, and can include massage, wound care, occupational training or re-training, and recommendation of assistive devices to enhance functioning.
If you’re in pain or have limited mobility, a physiotherapist can help. Alone or in combination with other therapies, physiotherapy is an effective treatment for many physical ailments.
Physiotherapists are certified, licensed professionals specially trained in physical therapy practices. To work in Ontario, a physiotherapist must pass a competency exam to be certified by the College of Physiotherapists. Practicing physiotherapists must maintain their certification and good standing with the College through standards of practice and professional development.
Physiotherapy is usually a post-graduate specialty. Practitioners complete a bachelor’s degree in science before studying physiotherapy. In some cases, though, physiotherapy is an undergraduate specialty.
In order to be certified and registered by the College, a physiotherapist must complete an accredited training program.
Physiotherapy treats a wide range of conditions, both acute and chronic.
Some of the most common ailments treated include:
Physical therapy can also improve conditions not directly related to movement, such as:
Because physiotherapy includes an array of treatments and is specifically tailored to the individual client, it can be used to treat just about anything. Find out more with a physiotherapy assessment.
Physiotherapy offers many benefits, perhaps most importantly pain relief. Even mild discomfort can affect your ability to move and, consequently, your quality of life. Physical therapy works to restore normal or close to normal activity by addressing both the pain and its underlying cause.
Other major benefits of physiotherapy include:
Every physiotherapy program is targeted specifically to the client’s goals, so sure to discuss your goals for treatment at your physiotherapy assessment.
Physiotherapy treatments are covered by most extended health care plans.
OHIP covers physiotherapy for children (under 19) and seniors (over 65), or for those who meet certain eligibility requirements and attend certified OHIP clinics.
Physiotherapy required as the result of a motor vehicle accident (MVA) or workplace injury (WSIB/WCB) is also covered through insurance or other programs.
Main Street Health will directly bill the insurance company for your convenience whenever possible. Book your physiotherapy assessment to discuss your specific situation and find out how we can help!
Some physiotherapy treatments may cause pain or discomfort as they are performed. For example, exercises to increase range of motion after knee or hip replacement can hurt as the muscles heal after surgery. The application of heat or cold may also be part of physical therapy treatments and can create an unpleasant sensation.
Remember, though, that one of the main goals of physiotherapy is pain relief. Any discomfort from physiotherapy should be temporary and short-lived. Be sure to communicate with your physiotherapist about the intensity, frequency, and duration of any pain you feel.
The duration of physiotherapy treatment varies from client to client. The number of sessions depends on your specific condition and goals. Your physiotherapist will create a detailed plan based on your initial assessment.
Individual appointments generally last between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the specific treatment being applied.
No. You do not need a prescription for physiotherapy. Your doctor may recommend physiotherapy, but you can also seek treatment without a referral. In some cases, a prescription or referral may be required for insurance coverage. Check the details of your policy.
Physiotherapy is designed to stimulate your body’s own healing and increase its natural capacity. It may take some time to see or feel results, or you may notice them right away. It will depend on the nature of your injury or condition, your overall health, and several other factors. Your physiotherapist can offer advice for making the most of your treatment.
