May is an exciting time for physiotherapists – the grass is turning green, the trees are blooming, and it’s a month to celebrate the profession that is our passion: Physiotherapy!!
Physiotherapists have specialized university training. A question often asked by clients is, “how long does it take to become a physiotherapist?” In Canada, it presently requires 6 years of university to obtain your licence to practice physiotherapy. In addition to that, there are ongoing educational courses offered following graduation to advance our skills. At STRIDE, our physiotherapists have continued to obtain advanced training throughout their careers including acupuncture, highly skilled mobilization and manipulation techniques, concussion management, Sports First Responder training, and numerous other courses. Physiotherapy, like all health care fields, requires life long learning since research is continually advancing our knowledge and improving our assessment and treatment techniques.
This year, the Canadian Physiotherapy Association has chosen the theme: YES YOU CAN and Physiotherapy can help. Their focus is directed towards “Healthy Aging.” By 2035, approximately 1 in 4 Canadians will be over 65 years of age (Statistics Canada).
As we get older, we are more likely to find ourselves dealing with an array of challenging health conditions such as osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, joint replacements, and decreased balance. Physiotherapy can help for all of these health obstacles allowing seniors to continue to bike, run, hike, golf, garden, play with their grandkids, and live in their own homes.
One of the most frustrating things that we hear often is, “I have arthritis, so there is nothing I can do.” There is nothing further from the truth! It is important to seek early treatment for optimal results, but some relief of pain and improved function is possible even with more advanced stages. Physiotherapy can help by:
- Maintaining or increasing mobility
- Improving joint lubrication and nutrition
- Restoring muscle balance and flexibility
- Improving circulation and endurance
- Improving strength and stability
- Improving poor posture
Swift Current has long been known as a retirement community. Whether you have enjoyed our mild winter or are a snow bird just returning home, STRIDE physiotherapists are here to guide you in leading a long, active, and healthy life. We challenge you to “Never Stop Living!!”
More information on healthy aging and physiotherapy tips for seniors can be found at: