What is athletic therapy and what makes it different from physiotherapy? It’s a question we receive often and we’re happy to explain the differences and benefits between each.

It is a common misconception that Athletic Therapists only work with athletes.

Athletic Therapy is the treatment of Musculoskeletal issues and conditions using various treatment modalities. It is a common misconception that Athletic Therapists only work with athletes; however, the goal of athletic therapy is to facilitate a client’s desire to return to their desired activity level. Athletic Therapists have in-depth knowledge, education, and training in the human musculoskeletal system to provide exercise prescription, basic emergency care, manual therapies, and various modalities to work with not only athletes but everyone from kids to seniors. 

Athletic Therapists work with you to develop individualized, evidence-based rehabilitation which can include:

• Rehab of physical injuries 
• Recovery from surgery
• Exercise programs
• Various manual therapies
• Supportive taping
• Return to play and active lifestyle
• Assessment of proper lifting techniques

What is the difference between physiotherapy and athletic therapy?

While Athletic Therapy and Physiotherapy have many similarities in their objectives of treating patients, they differ in their educational backgrounds and scope of practice. Physiotherapists’ education focuses on cardiology, orthopaedics and neurology with skills being used to treat a variety of ailments including pediatrics, stroke rehab and many more. Athletic therapists’ education focuses on the musculoskeletal system, biomechanics, and exercise physiology, and includes in-field and in-clinic practicums, and a valid First Responder certificate. Athletic therapy treatments are based on the Sports Medicine Model which is an active rehab approach with an objective to find and treat the root cause of the conditions, not just the symptoms. This method encourages patients to follow an active approach to rehab versus reliance on modalities. 

When Should I see an Athletic Therapist?

• If you are experiencing any type of pain or discomfort that is affecting your daily life, occupation, or ability to engage in physical activity
• You are recovering from a surgery
• You are recovering from an injury and would like to return to your original activity level
• Return to sports training and reconditioning
• Looking for corrective exercise training and programs

What can I expect at appointments?

The initial assessment will consist of medical history and understanding of your goals to get a snapshot of your overall health. Mark, Diversified Health Clinic’s Athletic Therapist, will then conduct a physical exam that will consist of movements at the injured joint and strength testing of the surrounding muscles, in addition to tests to isolate the injured structure or area that you are wanting to strengthen. Mark will create a customized treatment plan based on this assessment. 

Subsequent appointments will involve a short history to ensure Mark is aware of any changes that may have occurred since the last visit, and you and Mark will work through the customized treatment plan that could include exercise prescription, manual therapies, equipment assisted soft tissue work, and stretching. 

After treatment, you may be given some home exercises to complement and reinforce the treatment you received. Patient education is persistent throughout all treatments. 

Meet Mark Novak, Diversified Health Clinic’s Athletic Therapist

Mark graduated from Camosun College in June 2021 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Athletic and Exercise Therapy. Mark uses both evidence and personal experience to approach each client with the goal of providing the most effective, well-balanced treatment. Mark uses both manual therapy and rehabilitative exercises to help patients get back to their daily activities or to reach a new goal.

Experience the Benefits of Athletic Therapy

Contact the clinic for more information on Athletic Therapy or to book with Mark Novak please contact us at 250-382-0018 or book an appointment online at www.diversifiedhealth.janeapp.com

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