One of the most common questions asked at our clinic is…
What is the difference between Athletic Therapy and Physiotherapy?!
Even a local neurologist who refers us patients asked us the same question.
The truth is, there are more similarities than differences.
But here is a simple explanation of what Athletic Therapists (ATs) and Physiotherapists (PTs) do…
They both perform a comprehensive assessment to find out exactly where your symptoms/concerns are coming from.
Common conditions treated by both include…
Muscle strains, ligament sprains/tears, whiplash injuries, frozen shoulder, tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, fractures and more…
Continuing education sometimes helps to differentiate one practitioner from another.
For example,
Ashley (AT) has taken additional courses in: Myofascial Cupping, Women’s Health, and more…
She also has an Acupuncture certification.
Daniel (AT) has taken additional courses in: Acupuncture, and The Foot Collective…
And Sean (PT) has taken additional courses in Acupuncture, and the Mckenzie Method (focuses on spinal pain)
A common misconception is,
That Athletic Therapists only treat athletes.
Athletic Therapists are great at working with athletes and weekend warriors,
But they are also well equipped to work with the general public.
Just as Physios work well with athletes.
One difference between the two professions?
Physiotherapists have a large scope when it comes to neurological conditions.
They work with patients recovering from a stroke for example.
Finally, from a practical perspective…
Both types of practitioners can be seen without a doctor’s referral
(Unless you need one for insurance coverage purpose)
Both are covered by insurance companies such as…
Canada Life, Blue Cross, Sunlife, WCB, MPI, and many more.
So there you have it.
Want to learn more about how we can help?
Send us an email or give us a call.
