When being treated for an injury at TRCC there will be little to no difference between the care you will receive from either profession. All professionals at TRCC treat with a patient centered focus and are well versed in orthopaedic and musculoskeletal injury assessment and rehabilitation techniques. The main differences between Physiotherapy and Athletic Therapy are seen in their scope of practice and educational background.
Physiotherapists have a more diverse scope of practice. Their formal education includes not only orthopaedic and musculoskeletal injury assessment and rehabilitation, but it extends into cardio-respiratory rehabilitation, burn patients, pediatrics, geriatrics, stroke and neurological disease rehabilitation. Many physiotherapists will advance their education after university in an area of interest within their scope of practice.
The education of an Athletic Therapist is completely focused in the area of orthopaedic conditions and musculoskeletal injuries affecting the bones, muscles and joints of the body. Courses taken are specific to assessment, rehabilitation, injury prevention, exercises prescription, supportive taping and bracing, concussion management and emergency care for onsite field work with sport teams.
Physiotherapy and Athletic Therapy are difference professional designations. Patients should always check with their extended health benefits plans to be sure the treatment they will be receiving is covered.
