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

Physiotherapy often remains misunderstood despite its established presence in Quebec's healthcare system. This health science plays an essential role in recovering your physical abilities and maintaining your independence.

At Physioactif, we believe that knowledge is the first step toward recovery. Understanding what physical therapy is, how it works, and what active role you play in your recovery maximizes your chances of success.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of physical therapy in Quebec: its precise definition, the conditions it treats, the evidence-based methods it uses, and how it differs from other therapeutic approaches.

What is physiotherapy and how does it work?

Physical therapy is a health science that restores your physical abilities through therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and education. It treats the cause of your problems, not just the symptoms, with more than 46,000 randomized controlled studies proving its effectiveness.

According to the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ), this discipline uses physical means to help you: therapeutic exercises tailored to your condition, manual therapy to restore mobility, advice and education about your condition, and lifestyle changes.

Physical therapy promotes your independence and allows you to remain active in your personal and social life.

How physical therapy works: You are an active participant, not a passive patient. This approach requires your personal commitment to the healing process. Each intervention is based on solid scientific research.

Primary objective	How physical therapy helps him
Restore movement	Therapeutic exercises and joint mobilization
Reduce pain	Manual therapy, education on pain management
Improving mobility	Stretching, range of motion exercises
Maintaining independence	Home exercise program, lifestyle changes
Improve well-being	Comprehensive approach combining treatment and prevention

Physical therapy treats several body systems: the musculoskeletal system (joints, muscles, and tendons), the neurological system (brain, spinal cord, and nerves), and the cardiorespiratory system (heart and lungs). It helps people of all ages, from children to the elderly.

The main difference: physical therapy treats the root cause of the problem, not just the symptoms. This approach places physical therapy among the health sciences, distinct from wellness approaches that do not target long-term healing.

What does a physiotherapist do every day?

The physical therapist assesses your physical abilities through clinical tests, makes a diagnosis, creates a personalized treatment plan, and supports you until you achieve your goals. They also educate you on how to prevent future injuries.

The first meeting: full assessment

During the first appointment, the physical therapist will conduct a comprehensive assessment of your condition, including a physical examination with specific tests.

Assessment test	What the physical therapist measures
Joint mobility	Range of motion of each joint
Muscle strength	Your muscles' ability to generate force
Posture and alignment	Position of your body at rest and in motion
Approach	Way of walking and moving
Balance and coordination	Stability and movement control

These examinations enable the physical therapist to make a diagnosis and work with you to develop a treatment plan to achieve your goals.

Follow-up and progress

The physical therapist will monitor you for a set period of time, tracking your progress until you achieve your goals.

In the clinic: The physical therapist applies the necessary treatments, uses manual therapy and physical modalities, and supervises your exercises. They adjust the plan as needed to ensure your injury heals properly. At home: Appropriate exercises are often necessary to improve your condition and are an essential part of your recovery.

Each plan adjusts according to your progress, because each person heals differently depending on their condition and potential.

Education and counseling: The physical therapist teaches you strategies to prevent injuries and guides you through your home exercise program. This education aligns with the philosophy that "knowledge is the first step toward healing." Professional collaboration: The physical therapist systematically records your progress and collaborates with other healthcare professionals: doctors, pharmacists, and sports coaches.

What conditions does physical therapy treat?

Physical therapy treats musculoskeletal problems (back pain, sprains, osteoarthritis), neurological conditions (stroke, Parkinson's disease), cardiorespiratory disorders, incontinence, and chronic pain. It helps anyone whose mobility or physical abilities are limited.

Musculoskeletal problems (most common)

Condition	Description	Treatment approach
Back pain (low back pain)	Lower back pain, the most commonly treated condition	Exercises, manual therapy, posture education
Sprains	Strain or tear of the ligaments	Mobilization, gradual reinforcement
Osteoarthritis	Wear and tear of joint cartilage	Exercises, pain management, maintaining mobility
Tendinitis	Inflammation of the tendons	Relative rest, eccentric exercises
Sports injuries	Injuries related to physical activity	Gradual rehabilitation, return to sport

The most common musculoskeletal pains benefit greatly from early physiotherapy intervention. Whether you suffer from chronic back pain, neck pain, shoulder problems, or knee pain, a comprehensive assessment can identify the cause and establish a personalized plan.

Neurological conditions

Neurological physical therapy targets the nervous system and its effects on movement. It requires specialized training and utilizes the principles of neuroplasticity.

Neurological condition	Treatment objectives
Recovery after stroke	Restoration of motor function and independence
Multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease	Management of motor symptoms, maintenance of function
Spinal cord injuries	Improvement in remaining functional capacity
Balance problems, dizziness	Specialized vestibular rehabilitation

Other treated conditions

Cardiorespiratory: COPD, asthma, cardiac rehabilitation, heart failure. Urogynecological: Urinary and fecal incontinence, pelvic floor dysfunction, pregnancy-related pain. Pediatric: Motor development delays, infant movement disorders. Chronic pain: Physical therapy offers strong scientific evidence for the management of persistent pain and is an alternative to pharmacological approaches. Discover our specialized program for persistent pain which uses a multidimensional approach based on the neuroscience of pain.

What methods and techniques does physical therapy use?

Physical therapy uses manual therapy (mobilization, therapeutic massage), therapeutic exercises (strengthening, stretching), physical agents (heat, ice), and posture education. The physical therapist tailors these techniques to your needs and the best scientific evidence.

Category	Techniques	Application	Level of evidence
Manual therapy	Joint mobilization, therapeutic massage, myofascial release	Restore mobility, reduce tension	Moderate to high
Therapeutic exercise	Strength training, stretching, functional training	Improve strength, flexibility, function	High
Physical agents	Heat therapy, cold therapy, hydrotherapy	Relieve pain, manage inflammation	Moderate
Other terms and conditions	Therapeutic taping, dry needling, posture education	Support, proprioception, prevention	Variable

Manual therapy : Joint mobilization and manipulation to restore range of motion. Soft tissue techniques: therapeutic massage and myofascial release. Targeted treatment of muscle restrictions and tension. Therapeutic exercise: Progressive muscle strengthening, stretching and range of motion exercises, functional training (balance, specific movements, gait correction). Research shows clinically significant reductions in disability through exercise therapy. Physical agents : Thermotherapy (heat) for pain relief and tissue relaxation. Cryotherapy (ice) for inflammation management. Hydrotherapy for aquatic exercise using the properties of water.

At Physioactif, we maximize treatment time together and teach the proper way to use physical agents at home.

Electrotherapy : Regarding TENS, therapeutic ultrasound, and laser therapy, as their effectiveness is controversial, we do not use electrotherapy at our clinic. Treatment customization: Your physical therapist selects and combines the most appropriate techniques for your situation, continually adjusting them based on your progress.

What is the difference between physical therapy and other professions?

Physiotherapy stands out for its active approach to rehabilitation, its diagnostic capabilities, and its strict regulations. Unlike osteopathy (unregulated in Quebec) or massage therapy (wellness), it treats the cause of problems with exercises and manual therapy.

Profession	Training	Regulated in QC	Main focus	Approach
Physiotherapy	Master's degree	Yes (OPPQ)	Rehabilitation, recovery	Active
Chiropractic	Doctorate	Yes (OCQ)	Spinal alignment	Adjustments
Osteopathy	Variable	No	Holistic approach	Passive
Massage therapy	Diploma	No	Well-being, relaxation	Passive
Kinesiology	High school diploma	No	Exercise, prevention	Active

Key points:

Physical therapy is a regulated medical profession with diagnostic capabilities and an active approach. Chiropractic focuses on spinal alignment and vertebral manipulation. Osteopathy is not regulated in Quebec and uses a passive, holistic manual approach. Massage therapy aims to promote well-being and relaxation with symptomatic relief. Kinesiology is often used after physical therapy for maintenance and prevention.

Important note: In Quebec, "kinesitherapy" means "physical therapy" (same profession). Not to be confused with "kinesiology" (a separate profession).

For a detailed comparison, see our comprehensive guide: Physical Therapy vs. Chiropractic vs. Osteopathy vs. Massage Therapy vs. Kinesiology.

When should you see a physiotherapist?

Consult a physical therapist if you have persistent pain that has lasted for several weeks, limited mobility, recurring injuries, or after surgery. In Quebec, no medical prescription is required for a consultation. Early consultation improves results.

Category	Signs to watch for	When to consult
Pain	Persists for several weeks, interferes with daily life, does not respond to rest	As soon as pain limits your activities
Mobility	Limited range of motion, joint stiffness, difficulty moving	When stiffness affects your function
Injuries	Recurring, athletic, professional	After any significant injury
Post-surgery	Joint replacement, ligament reconstruction	As soon as recommended by the surgeon
Balance	Vertigo, dizziness, instability	As soon as symptoms appear

Pain-related indicators : Persistent pain lasting several weeks with no improvement. Pain that interferes with your daily activities. Frequent headaches of muscular origin. Pain that does not respond to home care. Mobility indicators and function : Limited mobility or restricted range of motion. Joint stiffness affecting your function. Difficulty performing your normal activities. Injury indicators : Recurring or old injuries that flare up again. Acute or chronic sports injuries (discover our specialized approach to sports physiotherapy). Work-related injuries and repetitive motion disorders (see our CNESST program for workplace accidents). Consultation principles : Early consultation = better results: Research shows that early consultation reduces total treatment time and prevents the development of chronic pain. Don't wait until the pain becomes unbearable. Direct access to Quebec: No medical referral is required to see a physical therapist in Quebec. You can make an appointment directly.

What are the benefits of physical therapy?

Physical therapy relieves acute and chronic pain, improves mobility and strength, prevents future injuries, and can avoid surgery. It also improves balance (fall prevention), cardiovascular health, and mental well-being.

Benefit category	Expected results
Pain management	Acute and chronic pain relief, alternative to opioids
Mobility and function	Improved range of motion, reduced stiffness
Strength and performance	Muscle strengthening, improved endurance
Prevention	Reduced risk of future injuries and recurrence
Surgical alternatives	Possibility of avoiding or delaying surgery
Balance and safety	Prevention of falls in older adults (strong evidence)
Overall well-being	Improved quality of life and self-confidence

Pain management: Relief and reduction of acute and chronic pain. Long-term pain management strategies. Alternative to opioids and risky medication. Mobility and physical function : Improved mobility and range of motion. Increased joint flexibility. Reduced stiffness and restrictions. Prevention and recovery : Accelerated recovery from injury. Prevention of future injuries and recurrence. Reduction of the risk of re-injury through education. Surgical alternatives : Possibility of avoiding surgery in several cases or delaying surgical intervention. Conservative treatment with substantial savings. Balance and safety : Improved balance and stability. Fall prevention, especially for seniors. Scientific evidence shows a significant reduction in the risk of falls. Overall well-being : Improved mental well-being and quality of life. Reduced anxiety related to pain and limitations. Increased confidence in your physical abilities.

What to expect during treatment?

Your treatment begins with an initial 60-minute assessment, including a questionnaire and physical tests. Follow-up sessions last 30 minutes, with 2 to 10 sessions depending on your condition. You will be given exercises to do at home that are essential to your recovery (2-3 exercises, 15-30 minutes per day).

Step	Duration	What's happening
Initial assessment	60 minutes	Questionnaire, physical examination, diagnosis, treatment plan
Follow-up sessions	30 minutes	Treatment, progression, exercise adjustments
Full program	2–10 sessions	Depending on the severity of your condition and your goals

First assessment (60 minutes) : Comprehensive health questionnaire and detailed medical history. In-depth discussion of your symptoms and concerns. Physical examination with clinical tests. Diagnosis of your condition by the physical therapist. Collaborative development of a treatment plan. Start of treatment if appropriate during the first visit. Follow-up sessions (30 minutes) : Review of progress and reassessment. Application of treatments. Progression of exercises according to your response. Continuing education and advice. Adjustment of the home program. The three phases of treatment:

Phase	Objective	Typical activities
Phase 1	Pain management and mobility	Manual therapy, gentle exercises, education
Phase 2	Treatment of the root cause	Strengthening, postural correction, functional exercises
Phase 3	Empowerment and prevention	Independent exercise program, prevention strategies

Home exercise program : 2-3 prescribed exercises, 15-30 minutes per day, with adjustments as you progress. Compliance is essential for optimal results. Your active role : You are an active participant, not a passive patient. Your commitment to home exercises largely determines your results.

Is physical therapy really effective?

Yes, physical therapy works. The PEDro database contains over 46,000 randomized controlled trials demonstrating its effectiveness. It has been proven cost-effective for most conditions, with strong evidence for back pain, osteoarthritis, and chronic pain.

Robust scientific basis : Over 46,000 randomized controlled trials in the PEDro (Physiotherapy Evidence Database), the world's largest database specific to physiotherapy. 74% of publications in physiotherapy are high-quality studies or systematic reviews. General conclusion: "Physiotherapy alone or combined with standard care improves health status in almost all studies."^1

Condition	Level of evidence	Proven benefits
Low back pain (backache)	Strong evidence	Significant reduction in pain and disability
Osteoarthritis (hip/knee)	Strong evidence	Improved function, may delay or avoid surgery
Fall prevention	Strong evidence	Significant reduction in risk among seniors
Chronic pain	Strong evidence	Effective long-term management, prevention of chronicity

Discover our specialized program for lower back pain and our comprehensive guide to knee osteoarthritis.

Proven profitability: Proven cost-effectiveness for most problems. Worldwide professional recognition : More than 600,000 physical therapists worldwide. 128 member organizations of the World Confederation for Physical Therapy. More than 20,000 physical therapists in Canada. Early consultation = better results: Research confirms that early consultation prevents the development of chronic pain and reduces the total duration of treatment.

How can I access physical therapy in Quebec?

In Quebec, consult a physical therapist directly without a doctor's prescription thanks to direct access. The initial evaluation costs approximately $130 and follow-ups approximately $105. Most private insurance plans reimburse these costs, and the CNESST/SAAQ cover work-related and traffic accidents.

Access to physiotherapy in Quebec : No medical reference required: You can consult a physical therapist directly without a doctor's prescription (direct access). You refer yourself. Exception: A referral IS required to consult a physiotherapy technologist (PT Tech), a separate profession.

Type of visit	Approximate cost (2025)	Duration
Initial assessment	~130$	60 minutes
Follow-up session	~105$	30 minutes

Coverage source	Condition type	Details
Private insurance	Various medical conditions	Most plans cover; check amounts and limits
CNESST	Workplace injuries and accidents	Full coverage for work-related injuries
SAAQ	Car accidents	Comprehensive coverage for injuries resulting from road accidents
Public system	Miscellaneous (limited access)	Long wait times; private practice offers faster access

Professional qualifications in Quebec : Required training: Master's degree (second cycle university) required. Quebec universities offering : University of Montreal, Laval University, UQTR, University of Sherbrooke, UQAC. Regulation: Membership in the OPPQ (Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec) is mandatory to practice. National competency exam required to obtain a license. Two distinct professions in Quebec : Physiotherapists hold a master's degree and practice independently, providing comprehensive assessment and treatment.^2 Physiotherapy technologists (PTs) hold a college diploma and work under supervision.^2

What is your role as a patient?

You are the main player in your treatment. Your role includes setting your goals with the physical therapist, doing your exercises at home every day, making lifestyle changes, and communicating your progress. Your commitment determines your results.

Central philosophy: You are the main actor

According to the OPPQ, "You are the main player" in your treatment.^2 Physical therapy is not something that is done to you passively. It is an active partnership where your commitment determines your results.

Liability	What you need to do	Impact on your results
Set your goals	Communicate your priorities and expectations to the physical therapist	Treatment plan tailored to your needs
Home exercises	2-3 exercises, 15-30 min/day, every day	A key factor in your recovery
Lifestyle changes	Apply ergonomic and postural changes	Prevention of recidivism
Communication	Report progress, challenges, and concerns	Optimal plan adjustments

Exercising at home (very important): Complete the exercises at home daily and maintain consistency in following the program. The home program is essential, not optional. Your compliance directly affects your results. Physioactif philosophy: "Knowledge is the first step toward healing."

Education empowers you in your recovery process. Understanding the "why" improves your compliance and results. We explain the mechanisms and reasons behind each intervention.

Success factors : Your success depends on the partnership between you and your physical therapist. Your active commitment determines your results. Empowerment through self-responsibility increases your investment and compliance.

How to begin your journey in physical therapy?

Begin your journey by contacting a physical therapist directly (no prescription is required in Quebec). Prepare a list of your symptoms, medical history, and questions. Actively engage in your treatment. Early consultation leads to better results and a shorter recovery time.

Step	Action	Details
1. Direct access	No references required	Self-referral is valid and encouraged in Quebec.
2. Contact	By phone or online	Choose a clinic based on your needs
3. Preparation	List symptoms and questions	Medical history, personal goals
4. Evaluation	60 minutes	Diagnosis and personalized treatment plan
5. Commitment	Active participation	Home exercises, regular communication

Physioactive: Your next steps

Science-based musculoskeletal physiotherapy. Evidence-based approach. Patient education-focused care philosophy. Greater Montreal area, 5 clinics at your service.

Our distinctive approach: "Knowledge is the first step toward recovery" is our core philosophy. Patient empowerment through education. Collaborative care based on partnership. Clear and understandable recovery plans. Act now: Early consultation leads to better results and shorter treatment times. Don't wait until your condition worsens. The first step toward recovery begins with knowledge. Take action today.

References

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