01/31/2025
Active therapy >>> passive manual therapy
A common misconception is that *only* physiotherapists are able to give you home care exercises. Hence the popular term “physio exercises”. The age old quip from medical doctors stating “you should see a physio for that” is outdated and uninformed. All chiropractors are trained in rehabilitation and are able to prescribe exercises (no, I don’t mean stretches). Athletic therapists, personal trainers, kinesiologists and massage therapists can all give active care as part of their treatment. Does everyone do it? No! Should they? Well, that depends on their philosophy and personal style of practice.
I like to tell my patients that 99% of how they are going to improve is via their home exercise program. Sure, manual therapy gives us temporary relief and feels good, but the real change stems from strengthening and regaining mobility where needed- yup, the HEP!
To speak further to chiropractors: many of us practice in very different ways. Some offer 15min appointments, while others prefer 30-60min sessions. Some prefer joint manipulation, while others (like myself) tend to use it very minimally. If you are working with a chiropractor and aren’t getting home care exercises, then go see a different therapist who is able to offer you better active care if that is what you are looking for.
Who to see? Look for a therapist (DC, MScPT, RMT, BScKin, AT) that preferably has a kinesiology or athletic therapy background and has experience in the strength and conditioning field. Their actual credentials don’t matter! We all offer our own unique lens and approach to treatment… the best fit and style is the one that you respond to!
