WHAT IS PHYSIOTHERAPY? Physiotherapy is a health care discipline that specializes in the prevention and treatment of physical injury and impairment. Physiotherapists combine a broad range of “hands on” skills with a detailed knowledge of anatomy and body mechanics, to help relieve pain and restore movement. WHAT TRAINING IS REQUIRED? Physiotherapists complete anywhere from two to four years of undergraduate training before spending another four years obtaining a Bachelor of Science of Physical Therapy from an accredited university. They must pass national exams before being licensed to practice by provincial regulatory bodies. Once they have graduated, physiotherapists stay abreast with the latest trends and techniques through ongoing continuing education. WHAT DO PHYSIOTHERAPISTS TREAT? Physiotherapists deal with a wide range of acute and chronic problems including: -Sports and trauma related injuries (sprains, fractures, dislocations, whiplash, etc.) -Pain and stiffness due to arthritis, tendinitis and bursitis -Neck and lower back pain -Repetitive strain -Chronic pain syndromes -Headaches -Nerve irritation -Joint or soft tissue pain in children WHAT HAPPENS WHEN A PHYSIOTHERAPIST SEES YOU? The overall goal of physiotherapy is to help one return to a previous level of comfort and function in as few visits as possible. The process starts with a thorough assessment in order to clearly define the problem. This is followed by formulation of a treatment plan, which emphasizes hands-on treatment techniques such as mobilization, manipulation and traction. “Modalities” such as ultrasound, interferential current and laser are often used to augment therapy. Many physiotherapists also use other treatment options such as acupuncture and craniosacral therapy. Throughout the treatment process there is a lot of instruction on how to manage problems through a home exercise routine. IS PHYSIOTHERAPY COVERED BY INSURANCE? Most Extended Insurance and Automobile Insurance plans cover physiotherapy fees. WSIB also provides funding for workers injured on the job, as long as they have approval and a valid claim number. OHIP provides very limited coverage only in specially designated clinics (the closest center is in Barrie).