Physiotherapy not "alternative" medicine or "voodoo", says CPA

Jan 9 2010

The Canadian Physiotherapy Association (CPA) was surprised and dismayed to read articles in two of North America's most prestigious newspapers which question the use of certain commonly used physiotherapy treatments for musculoskeletal injuries. The articles, titled "Some physical therapy may be a stretch" and "Treat me, but no tricks please" suggest that ice, heat, ultrasound and other modalities are "voodoo" treatments. CPA wants Canadians to know that there is scientific evidence for the use of these modalities as part of a comprehensive treatment plan which would also include education, exercise, and manual therapy as prescribed by physiotherapists.

CPA strongly objects to the use of the term "voodoo" in these articles. Physiotherapists are distinguished and respected health professionals educated at the university level. They have a 90-year history of evidence-informed practice that has demonstrated tremendous benefits to the health and well being of Canadians. There are countless stories of Canadians who have recovered from injury and illness with the help of physiotherapists. Physiotherapy is not "alternative" medicine and it is certainly not "voodoo."

With the best evidence available physiotherapists use their evaluative skills, clinical judgement and assessment of the patient's needs to develop an effective plan of care. Evidence is essential, and is combined with the physiotherapist's unique knowledge and understanding of an individual patient. The patient too must get involved by playing an active role in the treatment and engage in dialogue with the physiotherapist about treatment choices, the purpose of various treatment modalities, and the overall goals and prognosis of the physiotherapy treatment.

The Canadian Physiotherapy Association urges all Canadians to seek physiotherapy services from only registered physiotherapists with proper credentials to ensure that their mobility and health is in good hands. Only registered physiotherapists are authorized to see patients as primary health care providers in Canada and to provide comprehensive care through physiotherapy assessment, diagnosis, and treatment.

Source: CANADIAN PHYSIOTHERAPY ASSOCIATION