Although Exercise Physiologists and Physiotherapist may appear similar, they are actually quite different in terms of education, training, and scope of practice. In this article, we will explore the key differences between Exercise Physiologists and Physiotherapists, and what they can offer.
Difference between An Exercise Physiology and Physiotherapist
The main difference between an Exercise Physiologist and a Physiotherapist is their approach to treatment. An Exercise Physiologist adopts a hands-off approach for assessing and managing your condition, and provide clinical exercise programs to facilitate the rehabilitation process. A Physiotherapist utilises hands-on techniques such as joint manipulation, massage, and exercise as a treatment form. Both professions play an important role in promoting physical function, reducing the risk of chronic disease, and improving overall health and wellbeing.
Education and Training
Exercise Physiologists are qualified health professionals who hold a Bachelor’s or higher degree in Exercise Physiology. In comparison, Physiotherapists are health professionals who hold a Bachelor’s or higher degree in Physiotherapy. Exercise Physiologists specialise in the study of how exercise affects the body, while Physiotherapists specialise in the treatment of physical impairments.
Roles and Responsibilities
Exercise Physiologists focus on the prevention and management of chronic health conditions, as well as improving fitness and performance through exercise prescription. Physiotherapists, on the other hand, focus on the treatment of physical impairments, such as injuries and disabilities, through manual therapy, massage, exercise, and other modalities.
Scope of Practice
The scope of practice for Exercise Physiologists includes exercise prescription for chronic health conditions, as well as prevention and management of chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. Physiotherapists, on the other hand, treat physical impairments such as musculoskeletal injuries and neurological conditions, and respiratory diseases.
Treatment Approaches
Exercise Physiologists use a range of exercise interventions, such as resistance training, cardiovascular exercise, and flexibility training, to improve physical function and reduce the risk of chronic disease. Physiotherapists use a range of manual therapy techniques, exercise, and other modalities such as ultrasound, heat and ice therapy to treat physical impairments.
Collaboration and Referral
Collaboration and referral between Exercise Physiologists and Physiotherapists are important for providing comprehensive care to clients and patients. For example, a Physiotherapist may refer a patient to an Exercise Physiologist for an exercise program to manage a chronic health condition or improve physical function. Alternatively, an Exercise Physiologist may refer a patient to a Physiotherapist for manual therapy or other modalities to treat a physical impairment.