A physical therapist is the same as a physiotherapist. They are licensed health
care professionals specializing in rehabilitation. They use a variety of treatments
to promote good health and help their patients reach functional goals of recovery.
They perform many hands on techniques, however their treatments most often involve
a lot of participation from their patients. This allows the patient to learn
how to look after their injuries on their own and to feel as healthy as they
can at any stage of life.
Physical therapists are licensed to assess and treat a large variety of heart
and lung diseases, brain and spinal cord injuries, and bone, ligaments, and
muscle conditions. They are also involved in the treatment of pain, incontinence,
and wound care.
Physical therapists work in a wide variety of settings. In hospitals they work
in the intensive care unit, as well as on the patient wards. They work in hospitals
specialized for rehabilitation of injuries and illnesses, in private and/or
public clinics, in patient's homes as home care physical therapists, and in
schools.
In Canada, physical therapists require 5 to 7 years of university education.
After graduation a physical therapist takes a national examination that must
be passed in order to be licensed as a physical therapist. Insurance companies
will not pay for physical therapy unless your physical therapist is licensed.