About the Job

NOC: 3142
Occupation: Physiotherapists
Category: Health Occupations

Nature Of Work:

Physiotherapists plan and carry out individually designed programs of physical treatment to help patients move more easily and with less pain.

They assess patients' physical abilities and dysfunctions to see what they are able to do and identify where they have problems, and then plan programs that might include therapeutic exercise, electrotherapy, acupuncture, massage, and/or hydrotherapy. Physiotherapists also maintain clinical and statistical records and develop health promotion programs.

They may focus their practice on neurology, pediatrics, orthopedics, geriatrics, or the treatment of patients with cardiovascular disorders, burns, or sports injuries.

Skills:

To work in this field, you should have an interest in health and in caring for the special needs of people. Ingenuity, initiative, and imagination are needed to adapt activities to individual needs. You should be patient, self-disciplined, and resourceful. The ability to inspire confidence and to motivate clients is important. A strong sense of responsibility, good judgement, and communication skills are also necessary. Physical stamina may be necessary.

Other Considerations:

A growing number of people in this occupation are self-employed.