Frequently Asked Questions about Physical Therapy

Physical therapy, also known as physiotherapy, is a health care profession directed at evaluating, restoring and maintaining physical function and mobility. The goal of physical therapy is to help you obtain optimal health and mobility leading to the highest possible level of independent function and quality of life, using an evidence-based medicine approach. Through treatment and education, you and your physical therapist will work together in partnership to achieve optimal health and function.

Physical therapists, also known as physiotherapists, are an integral part of your health care team. Physical therapists have a detailed understanding of how the body works and are university educated to assess, diagnose and treat dysfunction caused by a pain, injury, disease or condition. Physical therapists practice in a wide range of settings and work closely with doctors, dentists and other health care providers.

To practice in Alberta, every physical therapist must first complete a university program in physical therapy. Since 1998, all physical therapy graduates must pass a national physiotherapy competency exam prior to licensing. Physiotherapists are primary care practitioners offering direct access to physiotherapy services without the need for physician referral.

No, the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan has not covered community based physical therapy since 1995.  However, the Community Rehabilitation Program through Alberta Health Services provides a limited number of treatments for those patients that have sustained a recent fracture or who have undergone a recent orthopedic surgery.

• Private insurance policies such as Blue Cross
• Motor vehicle insurance companies
• Self-pay
• The Community Rehabilitation Program administered by Alberta Health Services
• The Worker’s Compensation Board (WCB)

On your first visit, the physical therapist will assess your injury or condition. This will involve:

• A discussion of your present condition.
• A physical examination.
• Feedback on what the physical therapist found during the assessment.
• A discussion of treatment options, goals and possible outcomes.
• Initial treatment and education.

During treatment sessions your physical therapy treatment program may include:

• Strengthening and/or stretching of muscles.
• Physical exercise in the clinic and/or as part of a home program.
• Information and education.
• Mobilization of joints, including spinal manipulation.
• The use of acupuncture or Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) needling techniques.
• The application of ice or heat.
• The use of ultrasound, lasers or other electrical modalities.

• The College Of Physiotherapists of Alberta serves the public by licensing qualified physical therapists and working with physical therapists to ensure competent and ethical physical therapy is performed in Alberta. As such, the College has the authority to register, investigate and discipline its members.