What is physiotherapy: Definition, treatments and when to consult?

Physiotherapy is often overlooked, despite its established presence in the Quebec healthcare system. Yet this health science plays an essential role in helping you regain your physical abilities and maintain your independence.

Understanding physiotherapy is the first step towards your recovery. At Physioactif, we firmly believe that "knowledge is the first step to recovery". When you understand what physiotherapy is, how it works, and what active role you play in your recovery, you maximize your chances of success.

This article presents a comprehensive overview of physiotherapy in Quebec: its precise definition, the conditions it effectively treats, the evidence-based methods it uses, and how it differs from other approaches. With over 46,000 randomized controlled studies demonstrating its effectiveness, physiotherapy is much more than just a treatment: it's an applied science at the service of your mobility and well-being.

What is physiotherapy and how does it work?

Physiotherapy is a health science that helps you regain your physical capabilities using therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, counseling and lifestyle modifications, so you can carry out your daily activities, work and play sports according to your condition and healing potential(1).

It promotes your independence. It allows you to remain active in your personal and social life(1).

According to the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ), this discipline helps you regain your physical abilities.(1) It uses an approach based on solid scientific evidence.(2)

Physiotherapy uses the following physical means to help you:

• Therapeutic exercises adapted to your condition
• Manual therapy to restore mobility
• Advice and education on your condition
• Lifestyle changes to improve your recovery

How it works: You are an active participant, not a passive patient. This approach requires your personal commitment to the healing process. Evidence-based practice is the foundation of this science. Every intervention is based on solid research.

The main objectives of physiotherapy are listed below:

• Restoring movement and physical function
• Reduce pain and discomfort
• Improving mobility and flexibility
• Maintain your autonomy and independence
• Improve your general physical well-being

Body systems treated include :

Physiotherapy treats several body systems, including the musculoskeletal system (joints, muscles and tendons), the neurological system (brain, spinal cord and nerves) and the cardiorespiratory system (heart and lungs).

Physiotherapy helps all age groups, from children to the elderly.

The main difference: Physiotherapy treats the root of the problem, not just the symptoms. This approach places physiotherapy among the health sciences. It differs from wellness approaches that do not focus on long-term healing.

What does a physiotherapist do every day?

The physiotherapist is the pain and injury expert who assesses your physical capabilities through clinical testing, diagnoses your limitations, creates a personalized treatment plan, applies manual therapies and exercises, and educates you to prevent future injuries and improve your health.

The first meeting: full assessment

At your first appointment, the physiotherapist will carry out a complete assessment of your condition. This includes a physical examination with tests and certain manipulations.

The physiotherapist's assessment tests are listed below:

• Measure your joint mobility
• Evaluate your muscular strength
• Analyze your posture and alignment
• Evaluate your gait and ways of moving
• Test your balance and coordination

These examinations enable the physiotherapist to make a diagnosis. He or she then works with you to develop a treatment plan to achieve your desired goals.

Follow-up and progress

The physiotherapist follows you for a set period of time. He or she monitors your progress and recovery until you reach your goals.

During follow-up, you will receive the following care:

In the clinic: The physiotherapist performs the necessary treatments. He uses manual therapy, physical modalities and supervises your exercises. He or she adjusts the treatment plan as needed to ensure proper healing of your injury.

At home: Exercises are often necessary to improve your condition. These adapted exercises are an essential part of your recovery.

Each plan adjusts according to your progress. Each person heals differently, depending on his or her condition and healing potential.

Education and advice: The physiotherapist teaches you strategies to prevent injuries. Advises on lifestyle modifications. Teach you the right way to move. Guides you through your home exercise program. This education is aligned with the "knowing is the first step to healing" philosophy.

Professional collaboration: The physiotherapist keeps a systematic record of your progress. He collaborates with other health professionals. He communicates with doctors, pharmacists and sports coaches or trainers.

What conditions and problems does physiotherapy treat?

Physiotherapy treats musculoskeletal disorders (back pain, sprains, osteoarthritis), neurological conditions (stroke, Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis), cardiorespiratory problems (asthma, COPD), incontinence, sports injuries and chronic pain that limit your mobility and physical capabilities.

Physiotherapy helps many different conditions. If your condition limits your mobility, function or physical abilities, physiotherapy can help.

The main categories of problems dealt with are listed below.

Musculoskeletal problems (most common)

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Neurological conditions

Neurological physiotherapy targets the nervous system and its effects on movement.

Neurological conditions treated include:

• Stroke recovery: Restoring motor function, regaining mobility and independence
• Progressive disorders: Multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease - managing motor symptoms
• Spinal cord injuries: Improving remaining functional capacity
• Balance disorders: Vertigo, dizziness - specialized vestibular rehabilitation

Neurological physiotherapy requires specialized training. It uses the principles of neuroplasticity and motor learning.

Other treated conditions

Cardiorespiratory: COPD, asthma, cardiac rehabilitation, heart failure

Uro-gynecological: urinary and fecal incontinence, pelvic floor dysfunction, pregnancy-related pain

Pediatrics: Motor developmental delays, infantile movement disorders

Chronic pain: Management of persistent pain - solid scientific evidence of efficacy, alternative to pharmacological approaches. Discover our specialized program for persistent pain using a multidimensional approach based on the neuroscience of pain.

What methods and techniques are used in physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy uses manual therapies (joint mobilization, therapeutic massage, myofascial release), therapeutic exercises (muscle strengthening, stretching, functional training), electrotherapeutic modalities (TENS, ultrasound, laser) and physical agents (heat, ice, hydrotherapy) customized to your needs.

Physiotherapists have many different techniques. These techniques are customized according to your needs and the best scientific evidence.

The main techniques used in physiotherapy are listed below.

Manual therapy :

• Mobilization and joint manipulation to restore range of motion
• Soft tissue techniques: therapeutic massage, myofascial release
• Targeted treatment of muscle restrictions and tensions

Therapeutic exercise :

• Muscle strengthening and progressive resistance training
• Stretching and range-of-motion exercises
• Functional training: balance, specific movements, gait correction
• Cardiovascular conditioning
• Research shows clinically significant reductions in disability

Electrotherapy :

• TENS (electrical nerve stimulation) for pain relief
• Therapeutic ultrasound for tissue healing
• Low-intensity lasers and shockwaves for specific conditions

As their efficacy is controversial, we do not use electrotherapy at our clinic.

Physical agents :

• Thermotherapy (heat): pain relief, tissue relaxation
• Cryotherapy (ice): inflammation management
• Hydrotherapy: aquatic exercise using the properties of water

At Physioactif we maximize the treatment time we have together and don't apply physical agents during treatment, we teach the correct way to use them at home.

Other terms and conditions :

• Therapeutic taping for support and proprioception
• Dry needling for trigger stitches
• Postural education and ergonomic advice

Personalized treatment: Your physiotherapist selects and combines the most appropriate techniques for your situation, continually adjusting as you progress. There is no one-size-fits-all approach.

What's the difference between physiotherapy and other similar professions?

Several professions deal with musculoskeletal problems in Quebec. Each has a different approach and different training. Understanding these differences helps you choose the right professional for your condition.

Physiotherapy is distinguished by its active approach to rehabilitation, focusing on therapeutic exercises, manual therapy and long-term functional recovery.

The differences between physiotherapy and other professions are listed below.

Quick Occupational Comparison

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Key points:

• Physiotherapy: Regulated medical profession with diagnostic capacity and active approach
• Chiropractic: Focus on spinal alignment and manipulation
• Osteopathy: Unregulated in Quebec, passive holistic manual approach
• Massage therapy: Well-being and relaxation, symptomatic relief
• Kinesiology: Often used after physio for maintenance and prevention

Important note: In Quebec, "kinésithérapie" = "physiothérapie" (same profession). Not to be confused with "kinesiology" (separate profession).

📖 Read the complete guide: Physiotherapy vs Chiropractic vs Osteopathy vs Massotherapy vs Kinesiology - Detailed comparison with full table and when to choose each profession

When should you see a physiotherapist?

You should consult a physiotherapist if you experience persistent pain lasting several weeks, limited mobility or stiffness, balance problems, recurrent injuries, or after surgery, as well as when your pain does not improve with home care.

The signs that indicate a need for physiotherapy are listed below:

Pain-related indicators :

• Persistent pain lasting several weeks with no improvement
• Pain interfering with your daily activities
• Frequent muscular headaches
• Pain unresponsive to home care (rest, ice)

The most common types of musculoskeletal pain benefit greatly from early physiotherapeutic intervention. Whether you're suffering from chronic back pain, neck pain, shoulder problems or knee pain, a comprehensive assessment helps identify the cause and establish a personalized treatment plan.

Mobility indicators and function :

• Limited mobility or restricted range of motion
• Joint stiffness affecting function
• Difficulty performing normal activities
• Functional limitations at work or in sport

Injury indicators :

• Recurring or old wounds that reactivate themselves
• Acute or chronic sports injuries - discover our specialized approach to sports physiotherapy
• Work-related injuries and repetitive motion disorders - consult our CNESST program for work-related accidents

Other indicators :

• Balance problems, vertigo or dizziness
• Inadequate posture causing pain or discomfort
• Post-surgery requiring structured rehabilitation - explore our pre- and post-operative program

Consultation principles :

Early consultation = better results: Research shows that early consultation reduces total treatment time. It also prevents the development of chronic pain. Don't wait until the pain becomes unbearable.

Direct access in Quebec: No medical referral is required to consult a physiotherapist in Quebec. You can make an appointment directly. The assessment will determine whether physiotherapy can help you.

What are the benefits and results of physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy provides relief from acute and chronic pain, improves your mobility and flexibility, strengthens your body, prevents future injuries, can avoid or delay surgery, improves your cardiovascular and pulmonary health, and enhances your balance and mental well-being.

The benefits of physiotherapy are listed below.

Pain management :

• Relief and reduction of acute and chronic pain
• Long-term pain management strategies
• Opioid alternatives and risky medications

Mobility and physical function :

• Improved mobility and range of motion
• Increased joint flexibility
• Reduced stiffness and restrictions

Strength and performance:

• Progressive muscle strengthening
• Improved endurance and functional capacity
• Improved physical performance

Prevention and recovery :

• Faster recovery from injury
• Preventing future injuries and recurrences
• Reducing the risk of re-injury through education

Surgical alternatives :

• Surgery can be avoided in many cases
• Delayed surgery
• Conservative treatment with substantial savings

Systemic health :

• Improved cardiovascular health
• Improved lung function
• Better overall packaging

Balance and safety :

• Improved balance and stability
• Falls prevention (especially for seniors)
• Significant reduction in the risk of falls (solid evidence)

Overall well-being :

• Improved mental well-being and quality of life
• Reduced pain-related anxiety and limitation
• Increased confidence in your physical abilities
• Back to activities, sport, work and daily life

Note: The benefits go far beyond pain relief. They include a complete improvement in long-term health and function.

What can you expect from your physiotherapy treatment?

During your physiotherapy treatment, expect a comprehensive 60-minute initial assessment including a questionnaire and physical tests, followed by 2 to 10 30-minute follow-up sessions, with treatment in 3 phases: pain management and mobility, treatment of the root cause, then empowerment and prevention.

First assessment (60 minutes) :

Your first visit includes :

• Comprehensive health questionnaire and detailed medical history
• In-depth discussion of your symptoms and concerns
• Physical examination with clinical tests (mobility, strength, posture, gait, balance)
• Diagnosis of your condition by a physiotherapist
• Collaborative development of the treatment plan
• Setting goals based on your needs
• Start treatment if appropriate at first visit

Follow-up sessions (30 minutes) :

Each session includes :

• Progress review and reassessment
• Application of treatments (manual, exercise, modalities)
• Progression of exercises according to your answer
• Continuing education and advice
• Home program adjustment

Typical number of sessions: 2 to 10 sessions, depending on the severity of your condition, your history and your goals.

The three treatment phases are listed below:

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Home exercise program :

• 2-3 prescribed exercises
• 15-30 minutes a day
• Progressive adjustments
• Essential compliance for optimum results

Your active role: You are an active participant, not a passive patient. Your commitment to home exercise largely determines your results. Your communication with your physiotherapist is also very important.

Does physiotherapy really work and is it effective?

Yes, physiotherapy really does work, as research shows it greatly improves health in almost every study, is cost-effective for the majority of problems, and has strong evidence for back pain, osteoarthritis, falls prevention and chronic pain.

Robust scientific basis :

46,000+ randomized controlled trials in the PEDro (Physiotherapy Evidence Database), the world's largest physiotherapy-specific database, including thousands of systematic reviews(3).

Overall conclusion: "Physiotherapy alone or combined with usual care improved health in almost all studies" - consistently positive results across a range of conditions(3).

Research quality: 74% of physiotherapy publications are high-quality randomized controlled trials or systematic reviews (2015 data), demonstrating a commitment to evidence-based practice(3).

Proven cost-effectiveness: Proven cost-effectiveness for the majority of problems, offering therapeutic value relative to cost(3).

Solid evidence for specific conditions :

• Lumbago (back pain): Solid evidence of effectiveness - the most frequently treated MSK condition(3). Discover our specialized program for low-back pain.
• Osteoarthritis (hip and knee): Proven efficacy, can delay or avoid surgery(3). Consult our complete guide to osteoarthritis of the knee.
• Falls prevention: Solid evidence, significant risk reduction in the elderly(3)
• Chronic pain: Solid evidence for long-term management, early intervention prevents chronicity(3)

Measurable clinical results :

• Clinically significant reductions in disability with exercise therapy
• Significant, measurable functional improvements
• Dual benefits: reduced pain AND improved function

Early consultation = better results: Research confirms that early consultation prevents the development of chronic pain. This leads to better results. It also reduces the overall duration of treatment.

Worldwide professional recognition :

• 600,000+ physiotherapists worldwide(4)
• 128 member organizations of the World Confederation for Physiotherapy(4)
• 20,000+ physiotherapists in Canada(2)
• Well-established profession integrated into healthcare systems(4)

Note on variability: Physiotherapy is delivered according to evidence-based guidelines approximately 50% of the time, indicating variation in quality of practice. Best results occur when evidence-based protocols are followed rigorously.

How to access physiotherapy in Quebec and how much does it cost?

In Quebec, you can consult a physiotherapist without a medical prescription thanks to direct access, with an initial assessment costing around $130 and follow-ups costing around $105, and most private insurances, CNESST and SAAQ reimburse for work or road accidents.

Access to physiotherapy in Quebec :

No medical referral required: You can consult a physiotherapist directly without a doctor's prescription (direct access). You refer yourself.

Exception: A referral IS required to consult a physiotherapy technologist (T. Phys.) - separate profession.

Insurance consideration: Some insurance policies may require a referral for reimbursement (not the profession, but your insurance). Check your individual policy.

Approximate costs (2025) :

• Initial assessment: ~$130 (45 minutes, includes full assessment, diagnosis, treatment plan)
• Follow-up sessions: ~$105 (30 minutes, includes treatment, progression, education)
• Note: Fees are set by individual practitioners; variations between clinics.

Repayment options :

Source of coverageType of conditionDetails of coveragePrivate insuranceMiscellaneousmedical conditionsMost plans cover physiotherapy; check your plan's amounts and limitsCNESSTWork-related injuries and accidentsComplete coverage for work-related injuries (Commission des normes, équité, santé et sécurité du travail)SAAQAutomobile accidentsFull coverage for injuries resulting from road accidents (Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec)Public systemVarious(limited access)Long waiting times; private practice offers faster access

Professional qualifications in Quebec :

Education required: Master's degree (2nd cycle) required(1)

Quebec universities offering :

• University of Montreal
• Laval University
• UQTR (Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières)
• Sherbrooke University
• UQAC (Université du Québec à Chicoutimi)

Regulation: Membership in OPPQ (Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec) required to practice.(1) National competency exam required to obtain license. Only licensed professionals may use the title "Physiotherapist".(1)

Two distinct professions in Quebec :

• Physiotherapist: Master's degree, independent practice, assessment and comprehensive treatment(1)
• Physiotherapy Technologist (T. Phys.): College diploma, works under supervision, different field of practice(1)
• Both are regulated by the OPPQ(1)

What is your role as a patient in your physiotherapy treatment?

As a patient, you are the main actor in your treatment, determining your goals with your physiotherapist, doing your home exercises daily (2-3 exercises, 15-30 minutes a day), applying the recommended lifestyle modifications, and communicating your progress to actively empower you and improve your recovery.

Central philosophy: You are the main actor

According to the OPPQ, "You are the main actor" in your treatment.(1) Physiotherapy is not something done passively to you - it's an active partnership where your commitment determines your results.(1)

Difference from passive treatments: You are NOT a passive patient. The approach is "done with you", not "done to you". Your active participation is required, not just your presence.

Your specific responsibilities:

Goal setting :

• Determine your treatment goals with your physiotherapist
• Communicate your priorities and desired results
• Setting realistic expectations with professional guidance
• Adjust objectives according to progress

Exercising at home (very important):

• Complete home exercises daily (2-3 exercises, 15-30 min/day)
• Maintain consistency in program execution
• Practice exercises as taught
• The home program is essential, not optional
• Your compliance directly affects your results

Lifestyle changes :

• Apply recommended changes on a daily basis
• Implement ergonomic changes (work, home)
• Modify your activities to support healing
• Follow advice on posture, movement, activity levels

Communication and feedback :

• Communicate your progress, challenges and concerns
• Report your pain levels and functional changes
• Inform your physiotherapist of your response to treatment
• Two-way dialogue essential for plan adjustments

Active learning :

• Ask questions to understand your condition
• Seek to understand the "why" behind each intervention
• Learn about body mechanics and injury prevention
• Become educated about your own condition

Physioactif philosophy: "Knowledge is the first step towards healing".

Education = empowerment: Education empowers you in your recovery process. Understanding the "why" improves your compliance and your results. Knowledge empowers you to take ownership of your health.

Education-based approach: We explain the mechanisms and reasons behind each intervention. We make science accessible to patients. We give you the tools to manage your own long-term health.

Scientific foundation: Explanations are based on scientific evidence. Education is informed by research. You receive credible and accurate information.

Success factors :

Partnership: Your success depends on the partnership between you and your physiotherapist. Shared responsibility for results. The collaborative approach produces the best results. Team effort: professional expertise + patient effort.

Patient empowerment: You take responsibility for your own recovery. You own your healing process. Your active involvement determines your results. Empowerment through self-responsibility increases your investment and compliance.

How can you start your journey in physiotherapy today?

You can start your physiotherapy journey today by contacting a physiotherapist directly without a doctor's prescription, preparing your questions and medical history, and actively engaging in your recovery to regain your full physical ability.

Steps to get started :

1. Direct access (no reference required)

• No medical prescription required in Quebec
• Contact a physiotherapist directly
• Self-referencing is valid and encouraged

2. Contact a physiotherapist

• By telephone or online booking
• Choose a clinic and practitioner to suit your needs
• Several access methods available

3. Prepare for your first visit

• List your symptoms and concerns
• Compile your medical history
• Prepare your questions for the physiotherapist
• Define your personal goals and desired results

4. Attend the initial assessment

• Full evaluation appointment (60-75 minutes)
• Assessment, diagnosis and treatment plan development
• Start treatment if appropriate

5. Be actively involved in your treatment

• Take an active part in the treatment program
• Follow the plan and exercise at home
• Communicate regularly with your physiotherapist
• Progress through the phases towards recovery

Physioactif - Your next steps :

Our services :

• Science-based musculoskeletal physiotherapy
• Evidence-based approach
• Care philosophy focused on patient education

Our location:

• Greater Montreal Area
• 5 clinics to serve you
• Serving the Quebec community

Our distinctive approach:

• "Knowledge is the first step to healing" - our core philosophy
• Patient empowerment through education
• Partnership-based collaborative care
• Clear, comprehensible recovery plans

Initial consultation :

• Book your initial assessment to get started
• Full evaluation available
• Development of a personalized treatment plan
• Direct billing to insurance companies available

Act now:

Seeking medical attention early will yield better results and shorter treatment times. Don't wait for your condition to worsen. Contact us to discuss your needs. Find out how physiotherapy can help you restore your full physical capacity and achieve your health goals.

The first step to your healing begins with knowledge. Take action today.

References

1. Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Physiotherapy [Internet]. Montréal: OPPQ; c2025 [cited 2025 Oct 6]. Available from: https://oppq.qc.ca/la-physiotherapie/
2. Canadian Physiotherapy Association. What is physiotherapy? [Internet]. Ottawa: CPA; c2025 [cited 2025 Oct 6]. Available from: https://physiotherapy.ca
3. Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro). PEDro statistics [Internet]. Sydney: The George Institute for Global Health; c2025 [cited 2025 Oct 6]. Available from: https://pedro.org.au/english/downloads/pedro-statistics/
4. World Confederation for Physical Therapy. About [Internet]. London: WCPT; c2025 [cited 2025 Oct 6]. Available from: https://world.physio/

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