Public FAQs
What is physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy is health care that helps people move better and reduce pain. Physiotherapists understand how the body moves and help people recover when movement is limited.
Physiotherapists can:
- Help you move after surgery
- Treat neck, back, joint, and sports injuries
- Help prevent injuries
- Support recovery after a stroke or other nervous system conditions
- Help manage breathing and heart conditions
- Treat bladder control problems
- Help with pain and movement problems caused by arthritis, repeated strain, cancer treatment, or developmental delays
How can I access physiotherapy services?
Physiotherapists are primary care professionals, like doctors and dentists. This means you can see a physiotherapist directly without first seeing a doctor.
You do not need a doctor’s referral to get physiotherapy. However, some clinics or insurance plans may require a referral to cover the cost. It is best to check with the clinic or insurer before your appointment.
Who pays for the physiotherapy service?
A physiotherapist is a health professional who helps people move better and manage pain. Physiotherapists complete a university degree that trains them to understand how the body works and how movement affects health.
Some physiotherapists receive extra training in areas such as bone and joint care, care for older adults, brain and nerve conditions, children’s health, heart and lung conditions, and women’s health.
The terms physiotherapist and physical therapist mean the same thing.
To work in Nova Scotia, a physiotherapist must be licensed with the Nova Scotia Regulator of Physiotherapy. The regulator sets the rules and standards for safe physiotherapy practice in the province.
Only licensed physiotherapists can use titles such as physiotherapist, physical therapist, PT, physiotherapy, or physical therapy.
Who is a physiotherapist?
A physiotherapist is a health professional who helps people move better and manage pain. Physiotherapists complete a university degree that trains them to understand how the body works and how movement affects health.
Some physiotherapists receive extra training in areas such as bone and joint care, care for older adults, brain and nerve conditions, children’s health, heart and lung conditions, and women’s health.
The terms physiotherapist and physical therapist mean the same thing.
To work in Nova Scotia, a physiotherapist must be licensed with the Nova Scotia Regulator of Physiotherapy. The regulator sets the rules and standards for safe physiotherapy practice in the province.
Only licensed physiotherapists can use titles such as physiotherapist, physical therapist, PT, physiotherapy, or physical therapy.What will the physiotherapist do?
The physiotherapist will ask you questions about your condition, your health history, and what you want to achieve. They will also ask about your daily activities and lifestyle.
The physiotherapist will examine how you move, your strength, and how your body works. This may include watching how you move and using hands-on techniques.
Based on the assessment, the physiotherapist will explain what is causing the problem and suggest a treatment plan to reduce pain and improve movement. You will work together to agree on the plan.
Your physiotherapist will check your progress over time and change your treatment if needed. They will also give you advice on how to manage your condition and help prevent future problems.
What if I don't understand something?
If you don’t understand something ask the physiotherapist to explain it to you. If you are uncomfortable or have increased pain tell the physiotherapist so that they can makes changes to the treatment plan. Your consent is required for any treatment so be sure that you understand what the treatment will involve.