Physiotherapy is a patient-centred healthcare profession that focuses on the assessment, treatment, and prevention of various physical conditions and injuries. It uses a combination of manual therapy techniques, exercise prescription, education and advice to help individuals improve their physical function and well-being.

Physiotherapy will typically cover areas such as: breast health, cardiorespiratory health, chronic pain, ergonomics in the workplace, hand therapy, intramuscular stimulation, incontinence, joint replacement rehabilitation, lymphedema care, manual therapy, mental health, neurology, oncology, orthopedic care, pediatric care, pelvic floor care, senior health, sports therapy, vestibular rehabilitation, and women’s health.

Physiotherapists are trained professionals who work alongside physicians and health care teams to help people of all ages and abilities manage pain and achieve their physical goals. The goal of physiotherapists in British Columbia (BC) is to empower, promote independence, and improve the quality of life for British Columbians.

Physiotherapists are trained in:

• Promoting optimal mobility, physical activity and overall health and wellness, preventing disease, injury, and disability;

• Managing acute and chronic conditions, activity limitations, and participation restrictions;

• Improving and maintaining optimal functional independence and physical performance;

• Rehabilitating injury and the effects of disease or disability with therapeutic exercise programs and other interventions; and Educating and planning maintenance and support programs to prevent re-occurrence, re-injury or functional decline.