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College Overview Member Information Public Information What is Physiotherapy? |
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What is Physiotherapy Where does Physiotherapy fit into your health care? Why should I see a Physiotherapist? What training do Physiotherapists have? What is a physiotherapist qualified to do? What should I expect on my first visit? What kind of questions are asked? What does the physical exam include? What do Physiotherapy programs include? Can I refuse examination or treatment? What information should I understand? What should I do if I am not satisfied with my Physiotherapist? Who oversees Physiotherapists?
Physiotherapy is the treatment and prevention of physical injuries and movement problems. Education and preventative measures help patients gain the highest possible level of independent function. A physiotherapist is sometimes called a physical therapist. The term means the same thing. Where does Physiotherapy fit into your health care? Physiotherapists work in a wide range of settings and with other health care providers. Patients may be sent to a physiotherapist by their doctor or dentist or may be able to access physiotherapy directly on their own. Physiotherapy patients range from babies and children to adults and seniors. Why should I see a Physiotherapist? Some of the more common problems a Physiotherapist helps with are the treatment of:
What training do Physiotherapists have? Physiotherapists must complete a university program and meet strict standards before practicing. A Physiotherapist must have a license to practice physiotherapy. What is a physiotherapist qualified to do? Your physiotherapist is educated to assesses your condition and tell you how physiotherapy can help you. A specific Physiotherapy program is recommended to help improve your condition. It may include treatment in the clinic or hospital with education and a home exercise program. Your Physiotherapist will then help you carry out that plan. What should I expect on my first visit? On your first visit your physiotherapist reviews your injury or condition and plans a treatment program for you. This includes the following:
What kind of questions are asked? Various questions about your condition and how it occurred are asked. Your health history helps the Physiotherapist understand your current condition. They may ask you for information about:
What does the physical exam include? The Physiotherapist does a physical evaluation. Changing or removing clothing may be required to see the problem area. Your Physiotherapist may touch the problem area to see if there is any tenderness, swelling or heat. Using their hands, they may test the problem area to see if weakness exists, if movement is limited and how much pain there is. The Physiotherapist tells you what your condition is and what Physiotherapy can do for you. They tell you what you can expect to happen from treatment. You should ask questions if something is not clear. If you agree with the proposed treatment, a program is set up for you. What do Physiotherapy programs include? Your Physiotherapy program may include:
Can I refuse examination or treatment? Any time during the first visit or later treatment sessions, you may refuse an examination or treatment if you do not understand it or if it makes you uncomfortable. Tell your Physiotherapist if you are in pain or uncomfortable. What information should I understand? You should be sure you understand the answers to the following questions.
What should I do if I am not satisfied with my Physiotherapist? Successful physiotherapy is based on good communication between you and your Physiotherapist. If you are not happy with your treatment, you should tell your Physiotherapist. Your physiotherapist may not be aware there is a problem unless you tell them. If after discussing your concerns you are still not satisfied you could ask to speak to the clinic owner or department supervisor. Your concerns can also be directed to the Registrar at the College of Physiotherapists of Manitoba. See the next section. Who oversees Physiotherapists? In Manitoba all Physiotherapists must be registered with the College of Physiotherapists of Manitoba. The practice of Physiotherapy is governed by "The Physiotherapists Act" which sets standards for registration and practice.
The College looks into all complaints made to it in writing. If you have questions about Physiotherapy practice, please contact: If you would like a copy of the above information: Click here
College of Physiotherapists
of Manitoba Phone: (204) 287-8502
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