Athletic Therapist
Prevention, Assessment and Rehabilitation of Injuries
Athletic Therapist
Prevention, Assessment and Rehabilitation of Injuries
Athletic Therapists have in-depth knowledge, education and training in the areas of the human musculoskeletal system, exercise physiology, and biomechanics. Their area of focus is on prevention, assessment and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal injuries (bones, muscles, joints).
Athletic Therapists adhere to the Sports Medicine Model of care. They treat a wide range of patients, from kids with concussions to seniors recovering from hip replacement surgery, using various manual therapies, modalities, exercise prescription and bracing and taping. The treatment varies but the objective does not: an Athletic Therapist’s goal is to help clients quickly and safely return to a healthy, pre-injury lifestyle, whether that means playing competitive sports or walking to the mailbox and back.
What you might expect
from your visit with an Athletic Therapist
Injury assessment
Biomechanic analysis
Joint mobilization and massage to reduce pain and increase range of motion
Treatment plan to maximize physical independence
Personalized exercise program
Patient education on how to manage pain and improve movement mechanics
Return to work (or play) planning
Frequently Asked question:
What is the difference between Athletic Therapy vs Physiotherapy?
There is little difference in the quality of care of musculoskeletal injuries between Athletic Therapists and Physiotherapists. Physiotherapists do include care of chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disorders, diabetes and chronic pain in their scope of practice. Most Insurance plans will cover physiotherapy but will generally not include athletic therapy. Both Athletic Therapy and Physiotherapy can be covered by ICBC motor vehicle accidents Insurance plans.
