There are a lot of myths and misconceptions regarding physiotherapy that can stop people from seeking out the help that they might need! I have put together a few common ones that I come across and hopefully after reading this article, you will have a better understanding of what physiotherapy is.

Myth #1: Physiotherapy is the same as massage

No, physiotherapy is not just massage. Physiotherapy treatment may involve soft tissue techniques, but it is not our sole treatment. Physiotherapy consists of a combination of manual therapy, exercises, laser therapy, ultrasound, and much more. Depending on your needs, the physiotherapist will come up with the best combination to meet your needs.

Myth #2: Physiotherapy is painful

During our first physiotherapy appointment together, we will explore your condition and pain. It is normal for you to be a little sore during and after your first session, especially when manual therapy is involved. The goal of physiotherapy is to reduce pain and to help you return to your activities, back to the things you love.

Myth #3: Physiotherapy is just exercises so any fitness expert can do it.

Physiotherapy is a regulated health care profession and only licensed physiotherapists can provide physiotherapy care. They have special skills which are key in developing specific rehabilitation program for you and your condition. Exercise is an important aspect of your rehabilitation, but it is one of many treatment options that your therapist can use based on your condition and goals.

Myth #4: You need a doctor’s referral to get physiotherapy.

No, you can go for physiotherapy and see a physiotherapist without a doctor’s referral. However, please check your insurance provider to see whether a referral is needed to access your benefits.

Myth #5: Physiotherapy is just for sports!

Whilst sports physiotherapy for football, basketball or soccer are highly publicized, physiotherapy is much more than sports rehabilitation. Physiotherapists work in various health care settings; hospitals, long term care settings, private clinics and community agencies. They also can specialize in muscle, nerves, mental health, critical care, cardiac, trauma, respiratory and orthopaedics. There is definitely more than meets the eye when it comes down to physiotherapy.

Myth #6: Physiotherapy is only for young people

Physiotherapy serves all age populations – young to old. However, the older population are the heaviest users of primary care. In fact, physiotherapy works with older persons with chronic conditions to prevent loss of function and improve mobility. Thus, to increase quality of life, as well as, reduce hospital admissions.

Myth #7: I don’t need physiotherapy, I’m going to get surgery anyways.

Physiotherapy is the first line of defence for conservative care to prevent the need for certain invasive surgeries. In the case where surgery is indicated, surgery is the start of your rehab journey. To get better outcomes after surgery – it ends with good physiotherapy. Before going for surgery, you may be recommended by your doctor to strengthen certain areas to improve the success rate of your surgery. I recommend that you speak to your doctor about pre-operative rehabilitation when a surgery date has been set.

Myth #8: Physiotherapists can order diagnostic imaging such as x-rays and ultrasound.

No, physiotherapists cannot order diagnostic imaging at this present time. The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario is currently looking into allowing physiotherapists the ability to order x-rays and ultrasound. You will need to visit your medical doctor to discuss your symptoms so the they can assess and decide whether further imaging is required. What do you think? Do you have any beliefs or ideas about physiotherapy that you would like to get answered? Contact Nexus Massage and Rehab on Yonge and Eglinton and speak to our physiotherapist if you have any questions or concerns.

Resources

Ontario Physiotherapy Association: https://opa.on.ca/about-physiotherapy/discover-physiotherapy/ College of Physiotherapist of Ontario: https://www.collegept.org/members/practice-advice/physiotherapy-scope-faqs