ATHLETIC THERAPY

Athletic Therapy in Central Alberta

Expert Care for Active Bodies – From Injury to Full Recovery

Athletic Therapy focuses on the prevention, assessment, immediate care, and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal injuries — helping athletes and active individuals safely return to sport, work, and daily life. Whether you're recovering from a sports injury or managing a chronic condition, Athletic Therapy can support your recovery and boost your physical performance.

What Is Athletic Therapy?

Athletic Therapy combines in-depth knowledge of anatomy, biomechanics, and exercise science to treat injuries to muscles, bones, and joints. It’s not just for athletes — anyone with an active lifestyle can benefit from the expertise of a Certified Athletic Therapist.

Treatments are hands-on, movement-focused, and tailored to each individual, with the goal of restoring strength, mobility, and function as efficiently and safely as possible.

What Does an Athletic Therapist Do?

Certified Athletic Therapists (CATs) are movement and musculoskeletal rehabilitation experts trained in the full spectrum of injury management — from prevention and emergency care to rehabilitation and performance optimization.

Their scope includes:

• Comprehensive musculoskeletal assessments

• Injury prevention strategies (postural screening, warm-up design, conditioning programs)

• Immediate care and on-field emergency response

• Rehabilitation and return-to-play planning

• Supportive taping and bracing techniques

• Equipment fitting and sport-specific adaptations

Treatment Techniques May Include:

• Static and dynamic movement assessments

• Soft tissue techniques (e.g., Active Release, myofascial release)

• Therapeutic modalities (as needed to support healing)

• Exercise prescription for strength, mobility, and stability

• Injury education and home-care strategies

• Taping and bracing to support healing and function

Athletic Therapy – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What’s the difference between Athletic Therapy and Physiotherapy?
While both professions treat musculoskeletal injuries, Athletic Therapists specialize in active rehabilitation and sport-specific recovery, focusing on return-to-play strategies. Physiotherapists may also treat a broader range of conditions including neurological, cardiovascular, and post-surgical care. At our clinic, Athletic Therapy complements our physiotherapy services, especially for athletes and active individuals.

2. Do I need to be an athlete to see an Athletic Therapist?
Not at all! Despite the name, Athletic Therapy is beneficial for anyone with a musculoskeletal injury, from weekend warriors to office workers dealing with chronic pain. Our therapists help people return to work, sport, and everyday life safely and efficiently.

3. What conditions does Athletic Therapy treat?
Athletic Therapy is effective for:

• Sprains and strains

• Sports injuries

• Muscle and joint pain

• Post-concussion care

• Recovery from fractures or dislocations

• Pre/post-operative rehab (related to musculoskeletal injuries)

4. What should I expect during a session?
Your Athletic Therapist will complete a detailed assessment, followed by hands-on treatment and a customized exercise plan. Sessions may include manual therapy, myofascial release, therapeutic modalities, taping, and injury-specific rehab exercises.

5. Is Athletic Therapy covered by insurance?
Many extended health plans cover Athletic Therapy, although coverage varies. We recommend checking your plan details. We can provide receipts for reimbursement and offer direct billing for some providers.

6. Can Athletic Therapy help prevent injuries?
Absolutely. Injury prevention is a key part of Athletic Therapy. Our therapists can assess your posture, movement patterns, and strength to create personalized conditioning programs, warm-ups, and taping strategies to help you stay active and injury-free.

7. Can I see both a Physiotherapist and an Athletic Therapist at your clinic?
Yes! In fact, many clients benefit from a combined approach. Physiotherapy may be used for early injury management, while Athletic Therapy supports active rehabilitation and return-to-sport training. Our team works collaboratively to ensure your treatment is well-coordinated and goal-oriented.

Ready to get back to what you love doing — pain-free and stronger than before?
Book an appointment with one of our Certified Athletic Therapists today.

Insurance Companies that cover Athletic Therapy

• Alberta Blue Cross
• Allsport
• Canadian Life Assurance
• CHA Health
• Citadel Assurance
• Clarica
• Co-operators
• Desjardins
• The Economical Insurance Group
• Equitable Life of Canada

For more information or questions on our services and treatments or for anything Weber Physiotherapy related please give us a call or connect with us  through our contact page. We’d love to hear from you.