Military Physiotherapist

Description:

As a Military Physiotherapist, you will be responsible for evaluating, instructing, and treating military personnel, creating treatment plans for various orthopedic, cardiorespiratory, neuro-musculoskeletal disorders, and sports-related injuries. Working as part of the Canadian Forces Health Services, you will ensure that military members are fit to return to active duty.

Key duties include:

• Workplace and Ergonomic Evaluations

• Injury Prevention

• Health Promotion

• Sports Injury Prevention

• Pre-deployment Training

• Rehabilitation Programs

Work Environment:
Physiotherapists work in physiotherapy clinics located within health care or fitness centers on military bases, squadrons, or garrisons. You'll use a wide range of physical therapy techniques, including manual therapy, soft tissue treatments, cold and heat therapies, hydrotherapy, acupuncture, and electrotherapy. You may also have access to advanced equipment such as isokinetic isotonic systems, treadmills, and computer-aided aerobic exercise tools.

When deployed, physiotherapists may work in temporary settings in support of military operations abroad, helping ensure that Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members remain combat-ready.

Enrollment Programs:

• Direct Enlistment Options
  If you hold a degree in physiotherapy and a valid practice license from a Canadian province or territory, you may be directly enrolled and sent to job training after completing basic military qualifications.

• Subsidized Studies Program
  If you are accepted into a master's program in physiotherapy at a recognized Canadian university, the CAF will fund your studies, providing full-time salary, medical benefits, and paid vacation in exchange for a period of service after completing your degree.

Training:
Upon enrollment, military physiotherapists undergo basic officer training at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec, followed by specialized physiotherapy training at CFB Borden, Ontario.

Additional advanced training in leadership, clinical skills, and specialized areas like manual therapy, acupuncture, ergonomics, sports physiotherapy, and post-doctoral education may be available as your career progresses.

Part-Time Reserve Opportunities:
Military physiotherapists can serve in the Regular Force or the Reserve. The Reserve allows you to work part-time, typically one evening a week and some weekends, with the possibility of full-time employment. Reserve physiotherapists serve in clinics or participate in military training as required.

You may also have the opportunity to serve in various branches of the CAF, including the Canadian Army, Royal Canadian Navy, and Royal Canadian Air Force.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits

• Health and dental coverage

• Pension and retirement benefits

• Career development and leadership training