What does a physiotherapist do?
Physiotherapists create customized rehabilitation programs for patients, which help them restore their full physical functions. Physiotherapists work with patients recovering from an injury as well as those with physical disabilities or chronic conditions. They work with patients of all ages and use active and passive therapies to improve their health. They may work in private clinics, hospitals or rehabilitation centres.
Active therapies may include physical stretches, fitness, walking and posture exercises. Passive therapies may include muscle massage, stimulation and ultrasound therapy.
Physiotherapist skills and qualifications
A qualified physiotherapist may have various skills you may want to include in your job opening, including:
- Empathy for patients dealing with physical pain and mental distress
- Strong communication skills to effectively listen to patients’ concerns and explain the treatment plan clearly
- Excellent problem-solving skills when faced with complex cases to evaluate the situation and implement a creative solution
- Strong attention to detail to help guide them on creating the best treatment plan and when to make changes
- In-depth knowledge of anatomy and physiology and how the body’s systems interact
- Practical experience in physiotherapeutic techniques, such as manual therapy, exercise, electrophysical, hydrotherapy, taping and mobilization
- Expertise in therapeutic equipment, such as resistance bands, exercise balls and electrotherapy machines
Physiotherapist experience requirements
A desirable candidate for a physiotherapist role has successfully completed their education and regulatory requirements. They also have experience working with patients in clinical settings, hospitals or private practice. It is advantageous if they have had previous success treating clients using various physiotherapeutic techniques and maintain accurate records of treatments.
Physiotherapist education and training requirements
A qualified physiotherapist in Canada typically completes an undergraduate degree followed by a master’s degree in physiotherapy. They next complete a period of supervised practical training followed by obtaining a licence with the regulatory body in the province or territory where they plan to work. Finally, they will pass the National Physiotherapy Competency Exam (PCE).
Physiotherapist salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, a physiotherapist in Canada can expect to earn an average salary of $87,263 yearly This varies depending on location, experience, and size of the company hiring.
Job description samples for similar positions
If this physiotherapist description sample information doesn’t match your company’s specific employment needs, consider these job descriptions for similar positions:
Physiotherapy job description FAQs
What qualities does a successful physiotherapist have?
Specific soft skills can contribute to the success of a medical assistant. In addition to the skills listed above, a good candidate may have emotional resilience to help them cope with patients who might be upset or distressed. People who enjoy helping others often do well as medical assistants because interacting with patients is key to the job.
What is the difference between a physiotherapist and an occupational therapist?
Physiotherapy and occupational therapy are two types of rehabilitative care to improve a patient’s condition.
Physiotherapy focuses on helping improve a patient’s movement, mobility and function by using a variety of exercises, stretches or other physical activities. For example, someone who has had shoulder or knee surgery may visit a physiotherapist as part of their recovery.
Occupational therapy focuses on helping a patient perform daily tasks more easily. This therapy focuses on improving the patient’s fine and gross motor skills so they can carry out day-to-day activities. For example, an occupational therapist may help someone recovering from a stroke relearn how to do daily tasks, like dressing or eating with utensils.
What should you look for in a physiotherapist’s resume?
A physiotherapist’s resume should outline the environments they have worked in, such as a hospital or private clinic, and describe some of the successful treatments they have performed. Their resume should also detail their training and any additional courses to show they continue improving their skills.
What makes a good physiotherapy job description?
A good job description will detail the types of patients the candidate will work with and your expectations. It will also outline the type of clinic you are hiring for to ensure candidates have experience in a similar environment.
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