Athletic Therapy at Total Balance Physiotherapy
Similar to Physiotherapy, Athletic therapy can help with many issues such as post-surgical rehabilitation, or recovery from sprains, strains and fractures. It can also help offer relief from pain due to musculoskeletal disorders such as rotator cuff tears, carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis. If you are not sure if an Athletic Therapist is the right person to help you, please call the office and we would be happy to help assist you further.
What is Athletic Therapy?
Athletic Therapy is “A health care profession that is highly trained on the prevention, assessment and care of musculoskeletal disorders (muscles, bones, joints) especially as they relate to athletics and the pursuit of physical activity” (Ontario Athletic Therapist Association, 2009a)
What you can expect from an Athletic Therapy treatment?
Your Athletic Therapist will complete a thorough assessment to help evaluate the problem. They will ask questions and listen to you describe your condition, in order to better understand your presentation, challenges, goals and concerns. They will then do a physical assessment that may include checking range of motion, movement patterns, strength, reflexes, muscle length and sensation. They can also review any tests you’ve had such as X-rays, MRIs and ultrasounds.
Once the Athletic Therapist has reviewed all of this information, we work with you to set goals and discuss treatment options.
What is a certified athletic therapist?
A graduate of a Canadian Athletic Therapists Association (CATA) accredited post secondary program who has successfully completed the written and practical National Certification Examinations. Certified Athletic Therapists are governed by the Canadian Athletic Therapists Association and the Ontario Athletic Therapists Association.
Do I need a referral to see a certified athletic therapist?
You do not need a referral to see our athletic therapist, however we do recommend that you check with your private insurance company to see if they offer coverage for Athletic Therapy. If you are covered you may need a referral from your doctor. All insurance companies are different. If you are not covered for Athletic Therapy then you may be covered for Physiotherapy to address your condition.