What is Sport Physiotherapy?
Sport physiotherapy is a focused area of practice in physiotherapy that requires skills and knowledge in the following areas: manual physiotherapy, exercise prescription, an understanding of various sports and fitness activities and knowledge of how to use advanced modalities in the diagnosis and treatment of injuries.
How are Manual Physiotherapists Different Than Other Physiotherapists?
Manual physiotherapists have completed postgraduate courses in manual therapy. They use their hands to assess various body tissues (i.e. joints, ligaments, muscles, tendons) and then apply specific, controlled, handson treatment techniques to restore tissue function.
Manual physiotherapists spend much longer with each client. Treatment sessions are typically between 2040 minutes in length. The goal is to maximize treatment efficiency and resolve clients’ problems as quickly as possible. SEMI’s physiotherapists are all manual physiotherapists.
What is Manipulative Physiotherapy?
Manipulative physiotherapists have completed advanced postgraduate training in spinal and peripheral joint manipulation. They have undergone a rigorous examination process and have received their Diploma of Advanced Manual and Manipulative Physiotherapy and are a “Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Manipulative Physiotherapists” (FCAMPT).
A very small percentage of physiotherapists in Canada have this distinction. The term “manipulation” involves applying a small, quick, controlled thrust technique to a joint to restore movement and reduce pain. Spinal manipulation is a Controlled Act in Ontario and can only be performed by qualified physiotherapists, physicians, osteopaths and chiropractors.
At SEMI, our physiotherapists are also members of the Orthopaedic Division and/or Sport Physiotherapy Division of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association.
What Can I Expect From a Sport Physiotherapy Session at SEMI?
A typical sport physiotherapy assessment at SEMI will include a period for history taking, movement pattern analysis, hands-on assessment, patient education and an individualized treatment plan. Treatment plans always include hands-on manual therapy, education about your condition and a personalized exercise program specific to your needs.
NOTE: Please bring active wear (shorts, tshirt or tank top, and running shoes) to your appointment, as active exercise will comprise a part of most of your physiotherapy sessions.
What Other Services do SEMI Sport Physiotherapists Offer?
Many of our sport physiotherapists have a background in kinesiology, personal training, athletic therapy, Pilates and acupuncture. Our therapists engage in ongoing education to provide you with the latest evidenced-based treatment approaches. They draw on all of these tools to help return you to sport and activity quickly and pain-free.
Do I Need a Doctor’s Referral to See a Sport Physiotherapist?
No. All registered physiotherapists are primary care practitioners, which means that they do not need a physician’s referral to see a patient. To be ‘registered’, one must be licensed by the Ontario College of Physiotherapists. All physiotherapists at SEMI are registered, and are therefore qualified to assess and treat any individual without having first seen a physician. The physiotherapist may then refer the patient to a physician if they feel a medical opinion is required. SEMI physiotherapists routinely communicate with clients’ doctors on a regular basis to ensure the highest quality of care for each person.
Is Sport Physiotherapy Covered by My Extended Health Benefits?
Absolutely. Our registered physiotherapists each have a billing number, which is recognized by all insurance companies and third-party payers. Some, but not all, insurance companies require a doctor’s prescription for physiotherapy before they will reimburse you.
Contact SEMI today to set up an appointment or consultation with a trained and professional sport physiotherapist. Our team excels at treating sports injuries and other painful conditions.
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