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CAREER PROFILE

Physiotherapist

Physiotherapists work in healthcare and help people improve movement, reduce pain, and recover function after injury, surgery, illness, or other physical challenges. In Canada, this career often involves assessing how a person moves, planning treatment, and guiding exercises or other approaches to support rehabilitation and mobility. It may suit students who are interested in science, caring for others, and practical problem-solving.

EDUCATION ROUTEUniversity normally required
WORK STYLEHands-on options
CAREER FIELDHealth Science

HOW TO GET THERE

Typical pathway

A typical pathway into physiotherapy usually includes post-secondary study in a related field and then further professional education in physiotherapy. Students often benefit from taking biology, chemistry, and other science courses in secondary school. After university study, people may complete a physiotherapy program and meet the requirements needed to practise in Canada. Experience in healthcare, rehabilitation, or volunteer settings can help build understanding of client care and communication.

THE WORK

What you may do

  • assess movement and physical function
  • develop treatment plans
  • guide therapeutic exercises
  • use hands-on techniques to support recovery
  • monitor progress and adjust care plans
  • teach clients self-management strategies
  • work with other healthcare professionals

A DAY IN THE LIFE

What a day can include

A physiotherapist’s day may include meeting with clients, reviewing concerns, and assessing strength, balance, flexibility, or movement patterns. They often create or update treatment plans, lead exercises, and use different techniques to support recovery. They may also document progress, answer questions, and collaborate with other healthcare workers. The work can involve both direct client care and planning time, and it often changes depending on the setting and the needs of the people being treated.

SKILLS TO BUILD

Skills used in this Career

communicationproblem-solvingcritical thinkingempathyobservationmanual dexterityorganizationteamwork

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