Physiotherapist

New Brunswick’s physiotherapists take great pride in helping their patients both maintain and regain their independence. Physiotherapy can be incredibly helpful for those with mobility issues often caused by injury, disease, or disability. Experts on the body and movement, physiotherapists first assess and diagnose a person’s condition before developing a customized treatment program. Every session and program is unique, just like every patient. Some physiotherapists may focus on clinical areas such as senior’s health, women’s health, oncology, rheumatology, orthopaedics, children’s health, or sports injuries.

The work of a physiotherapist is often very hands-on, so they must maintain their physical health and coordination. Working closely with patients requires these healthcare professionals be encouraging, motivational, and have good communication skills – both in person and in writing. Organization and problem-solving skills are also essential to this career when evaluating the effectiveness of treatment plans.

Personal characteristics and skills

  • Good coordination and physical health
  • Positive, encouraging, and motivational attitude
  • Analytical and problem-solving abilities
  • Good organizational skills
  • Good communication skills in person and in writing

Physiotherapists in New Brunswick have a variety of important roles, including but not limited to:

  • Assessing patients to establish physiotherapy diagnosis
  • Determining treatment goals in collaboration with patients
  • Planning and implementing treatment programs
  • Treating patients through therapeutic exercise, manipulation, massage, education, radiant, mechanical, electrical energy and/or acupuncture
  • Maintaining clinical and statistical records
  • Developing and implementing health promotion programs
  • Communicating with referring healthcare professionals regarding patients’ needs and progress

The work of a physiotherapist is fast-paced and physically engaging – there’s a lot of bending, stretching, standing, lifting, and reaching involved. Not only do physiotherapists often lift and adjust equipment, but they may also need to lift and transfer patients with limited mobility. Many physiotherapists work evenings and weekends to accommodate their patients’ schedules.

Physiotherapists work in a variety of settings, such as:

  • Hospitals
  • Clinics
  • Private practice
  • Rehabilitation centres
  • Nursing homes and long-term care facilities
  • Sports organizations
  • Home healthcare programs and services

All physiotherapists are required to complete a bachelor’s degree followed by a master’s degree in Physiotherapy. To begin practicing in New Brunswick, they must first register with the College of Physiotherapists of New Brunswick (CPTNB). Applicants must successfully complete both the written and clinical components of the national Physiotherapy Competency Examination (PCE) before full licensure will be granted.

Education programs offered in Atlantic Canada: