By Élodie St-pierre

Publié le 17 juin 2026

When I was 9 years old, I used to play soccer with my friend. One day, I suddenly changed my direction, my foot got stuck in the grass, and I fell hard. At first, I thought it was just a sprain, but the doctors confirmed that I had broken my leg. After, I had to wear a cast, but with time I was finally able to go back to playing soccer. But when I went back to play, I was still in a lot of pain. So, my parents booked me an appointment with the physiotherapist. And it was from that moment that I discovered a certain interest in doing this job.  

The physiotherapy is a profession in the healthcare field which aims to improve physical abilities. It is a field of study which is connected to the Sustainable Development Goal number 3, good health and well-being for all. 

The physiotherapy is vital in the health sector because it not only helps heal injuries but also prevents future problems and improves quality of life. 

First, the physiotherapy is a job in the health system. This job helps people with their mobility and the quality of life of people suffering from injury, illness, or physical limitation. To succeed, knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics is necessary. The studies required for this profession teach us to understand the functioning of the human body and the patient’s needs. According to Ordre Professionnel de la Physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ), there are more than 9900 physiotherapists and technologues in physiotherapy who take care of people. 

Second, to better understand, this issue, I conducted an interview with ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence created by OpenAI. I first asked ChatGPT what are the types of patients the physiotherapists treat most often. It responded that "Physiotherapist most often treat patients with musculoskeletal problems, such as back and neck pain caused by posture or daily activities" (ChatGPT interview, April 2026). After, I asked at ChatGPT if the physiotherapists work in a team with other healthcare professionals. It said that "Yes, physiotherapists often work as part of a healthcare team. They regularly collaborate with doctors, nurses, occupational therapists, and other specialists to provide the best care for patients" (ChatGPT interview, April 2026). To finish my interview, I asked the AI what the biggest challenges of this profession were. It answered that “One of the biggest challenges of being a physiotherapist is managing patients with different needs and motivation levels" (ChatGPT interview, April 2026). In brief, the AI was useful for explaining basic concepts and starting my research. I completed with other sources and news articles to support my argument. 

Third, I find that physiotherapy is a good specialty with many benefits. When I was in high school, I practiced cheerleading twice a week and over time, my shoulder and my back were really hurting. To succeed in continuing with this sport, I had to go to the physiotherapy. This helped me a lot and thanks to this I was able to continue doing what I loved. My physiotherapist helped me by suggesting lots of exercises and I was also able to improve my quality of life. 

In conclusion, my childhood experience introduced me to the physiotherapy and showed me how essential this profession is in improving health and well-being. The physiotherapy helps not only prevent injuries and restore physical abilities but also promotes the sustainability of our health. Therefore, it is now up to us to recognize the importance of this discipline and to provide more support to the professionals who contribute every day to improving the quality of life for so many people.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Qu’est-ce que la physiothérapie : Définition, traitements et quand consulter?, Qu'est-ce que la physiothérapie? Guide complet, 2025 

Summary: The physiotherapy helps reduce pain and improve movement through exercises and techniques. It treats several physical problems. 

La physiothérapie dans un service d’orthopédie en milieu hospitalier, La physiothérapie dans un service d'orthopédie en milieu hospitalier | OPPQ, 2026 

Summary: The article shows how physiotherapy in the hospital helps surgical patients regain their mobility and independence quickly. 

Ce que la physiothérapie peut faire pour vous, Ce que la physiothérapie peut faire pour vous | Protégez-Vous.ca, 2024 

Summary: The article explains that physiotherapy can help prevent injuries. It also outlines when to consult a physiotherapist and what a typical treatment session entails.  

Qui consulter? La physiothérapie; choisissez le bon professionnel pour vous selon votre enjeu de santé, La physiothérapie : bienfaits et traitements | PhysioExtra, 2026 

Summary: The page explains the different types of treatments offered to optimize recovery and quality of life.

Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Quebec, Ordre Professionnel de la Physiothérapie du Québec | OPPQ, 2026