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Kinesiology vs. Physiotherapy: Understanding the Differences and Benefits

In a world of movement, everyone has unique abilities and personal limits. However, sometimes pain and other limitations can be overcome through complementary therapies aimed at the three Rs: pain relief, recovery, and rehabilitation.

 

Kinesiology and physiotherapy are two treatment options for all three. Keep reading to learn more about them and decide if they are right for you.

A kinesiologist assists a patient with a leg rehabilitation exercise on a mat.

Kinesiology and its focus

In Ancient Greece, kinesiology meant the study of movement. Therefore, kinesiology focuses on applying fundamental scientific principles such as anatomy, biology, and chemistry to movement and performance. Kinesiology can also be called active rehabilitation because it requires active involvement from the patient.

 

Physiotherapy and its focus

Physio is Greek for physical, and therapy is a Greek word turned Latin that has several meanings related to treatment and healing. Put together, these words indicate a focus on physical injury treatment and rehabilitation, which can be passive, active, or a combination of both.

 

Key differences between Kinesiology and Physiotherapy

There are 4 key differences between kinesiology and physiotherapy.


Kinesiology

Physiotherapy

Focus

Movement optimization and performance enhancement

Focuses on rehabilitation and pain relief often helping individuals recover from injuries or surgeries

Approach

Active rehabilitation through tailored exercise programs

Manual therapies combined with modalities and exercise programs

Diagnosis

Kinesiologist typically doesn’t diagnose injuries or medical conditions

Physiotherapist has the authority to diagnose injuries and conditions

Exercise

Develops exercise programs

Offers an array of treatments including hands-on techniques and exercises

Both fields aim to improve health, but their methods and scope of practice vary, making them complementary in many rehabilitation and wellness plans.

 

Benefits of Kinesiology

When used under the right circumstances, kinesiology improves athletic performance and enhances functional movement in daily activities. The application of science and the development of proper body mechanics also help prevent injuries. This is especially true due to the personalized exercise program developed to address the patient’s needs.

 

Benefits of Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is meant to provide treatment for acute and chronic conditions and offer rehabilitation following injuries or surgeries. The modalities and other techniques used within physiotherapy aim to improve mobility and function, but they can also manage neurological and respiratory conditions.


CARE: Choosing the Right Option

Use CARE whenever you choose a physical treatment, therapist, and clinic.

 

C: Consider your goals: Only you know what your physical needs and goals are, but

 

A: Assess with professionals who can fully assess your current condition and needs.

 

R: Remain open to combinations. Professional therapists will only suggest treatment options that they judge will benefit you.

 

E: Evaluate and adjust. It can take time to feel or see improvement, but it is important to evaluate on your own and with your professional therapist what seems to be working and what is not.  

 

Choose the Surrey Treatment That’s Right for Your Needs

Call JEEVA Physio in Surrey to discuss your needs. We have therapists with extensive experience and amazing skills that incorporate hands-on treatments and advanced modalities for your recovery. We will be happy to help you find the treatment path that will allow you to move swifter, higher, and stronger with less pain and more confidence. New patients are always welcome! Feel free to read what others have experienced at our Surrey clinics.

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