Types of Physiotherapy

We provide same-day physiotherapy appointments for healthcare workers, first responders, and seniors.

Modern physiotherapy is categorized into specialized areas, allowing physiotherapists to address a wide range of conditions more effectively.

1. Neurological Physiotherapy

This branch focuses on conditions affecting the nervous system, such as:

  • Stroke

  • Traumatic brain injury

  • Spinal cord injuries

  • Parkinson’s disease

  • Sciatica

  • Multiple sclerosis (MS)

Goals: Restore mobility, improve coordination, reduce muscle spasticity, and promote functional independence.

2. Orthopedic (Musculoskeletal) Physiotherapy

Orthopedic physiotherapy deals with issues related to the muscles, joints, ligaments, tendons, and bones. It is ideal for:

  • Sports injuries

  • Arthritis

  • Post-surgical rehabilitation

  • Fractures

  • Sprains and strains

Goals: Reduce pain, restore mobility, and support skeletal alignment.

3. Cardiopulmonary Physiotherapy

This specialty is designed for individuals with heart and lung conditions, such as:

  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

  • Asthma

  • Cardiac arrest recovery

Treatment includes cardiac rehab, breathing exercises, and endurance training to improve overall cardiovascular function.

4. Pediatric Physiotherapy

This sub-specialty caters to children with:

  • Developmental delays

  • Cerebral palsy

  • Genetic conditions

  • Congenital deformities

Pediatric physiotherapists use fun, engaging, and therapeutic techniques to improve movement, strength, and coordination in children.

5. Geriatric Physiotherapy

Designed for older adults, this specialty addresses age-related health issues like:

  • Osteoporosis

  • Arthritis

  • Balance disorders

  • Post-hip/knee replacement rehab

It aims to improve mobility, reduce fall risk, and help seniors maintain independence.

Key Physiotherapy Treatment Techniques

Physiotherapists utilize a wide range of advanced treatment modalities tailored to individual patient needs.

Manual Therapy

Hands-on techniques such as joint manipulation and soft tissue mobilization to improve flexibility, reduce pain, and restore movement.

Dry Needling

Very fine needles are inserted into muscle trigger points to relieve pain and improve muscle function. Dry needling focuses on musculoskeletal issues, while acupuncture targets energy meridians based on traditional Chinese medicine.

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)

A small device delivers mild electrical currents to the affected area to temporarily reduce pain and stimulate healing.

Taping Techniques

Kinesiology taping lifts the skin slightly, improving blood and lymphatic circulation while reducing pressure on injured muscles and joints.

Joint Mobilization

Involves passive movement of joints at specific speeds and depths to improve range of motion and reduce stiffness.

Stretching and Strengthening Exercises

Customized programs help improve posture, increase flexibility, and rebuild muscle strength post-injury.

Rehabilitation Programs

Structured rehab plans are essential for recovery from surgeries, injuries, and neurological events. These programs are built around the patient’s specific condition and goals.

Hydrotherapy

Performed in warm water, this therapy provides low-impact resistance, making it perfect for arthritis patients or those recovering from joint surgeries.

Hot and Cold Therapy

  • Cold therapy (ice packs, cryotherapy) reduces inflammation and swelling.

  • Heat therapy (hot packs, infrared, ultrasound) promotes blood flow and helps relieve chronic pain.

Diathermy

A deep heating technique using high-frequency electrical currents to reduce pain, increase circulation, and promote tissue healing.

Ultrasound Therapy & Phonophoresis

Ultrasound waves are used to penetrate deep tissue layers, aiding in pain relief, muscle spasm reduction, and enhanced drug absorption when combined with topical medications.

Range of Motion (ROM) Exercises

Includes:

  • Passive ROM (PROM) – Therapist moves the joint.

  • Active Assistive ROM (AAROM) – Patient assists movement.

  • Active ROM (AROM) – Patient performs movement independently.

These exercises improve joint flexibility and reduce stiffness.

Soft Tissue Mobilization

A targeted massage therapy technique that relaxes tense muscles, increases blood flow, and reduces swelling.

Email: pittmeadowsphysio@gmail.com

Phone: (604) 465-8733

Address: 19133 Ford Road Pitt Meadows, BC, V3Y 2R5 Canada

Website: https://www.pittmeadowsphysio.ca/contact-us

Conclusion

With a variety of sub-specialties and modern techniques, physiotherapy is an essential part of recovery, pain management, and long-term physical health. Whether you’re dealing with a sports injury, managing a chronic illness, or helping a child reach developmental milestones, physiotherapy can help restore strength, function, and independence.

With over 50 years of combined experience, our team has been delivering high-quality care since 1991. We proudly serve residents of Pitt Meadows, Maple Ridge, Port Coquitlam, Coquitlam, and Langley, helping individuals recover from a wide range of injuries. We are available six days a week to accommodate your needs.