A physiotherapist is a regulated health professional in Ontario who treats a wide range of conditions, from sports injuries to post-surgical, neurological and breathing problems. A Certified Athletic Therapist specializes in muscle, bone and joint injuries, from first response on the field through to return to play.
Regulation and titles
- Physiotherapist. A protected title. Physiotherapists must be registered with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.
- Athletic therapist. Not a regulated health profession in Ontario. The national credential is CAT(C), Certified Athletic Therapist, granted by the Canadian Athletic Therapists Association after an accredited program and a certification exam.
What each one does
- Physiotherapists assess and diagnose within their scope, treat with hands-on therapy and exercise, and can be authorized for additional techniques such as dry needling.
- Athletic therapists focus on assessing and rehabilitating musculoskeletal injuries, taping and bracing, emergency care at games and practices, and sport-specific reconditioning.
For a sprain, strain or return to sport after injury, the two often work in similar ways, and many clinics use both on the same case.
Insurance
This is often the deciding factor. Most extended health plans cover physiotherapy. Athletic therapy is covered by some plans and not others, and it is usually a separate benefit from physiotherapy. Check your plan for “athletic therapy” by name before you book.
Which should I choose?
- Unsure what is wrong, or the problem is not a sports injury: start with a physiotherapist.
- Clear sports injury and your goal is getting back to play: either can help.
- Your plan covers only one of them: use that one.
Our team in Gloucester includes physiotherapists and a Certified Athletic Therapist, so you can be pointed to the right person when you call. Fees are on our Pricing page.