Each May, during National Physiotherapy Month, we recognize and celebrate the profound impact physiotherapists and physiotherapist assistants have on the health and well-being of Canadians. At VHA Home HealthCare (VHA) and Champlain Rehab Solutions, we witness this impact every day. Our team of 140 physiotherapists (PTs) and 35 physiotherapist assistants (PTAs) provide support in homes, schools and communities. From pain management and chest therapy, to return-to-work assessments and assistive device recommendations, their specialized services support clients by preserving their independence and helping them achieve their goals.

One area where home care physiotherapy is particularly transformative is post-surgical recovery, where timely, expert care can make all the difference. This National Physiotherapy Month, we’re highlighting how in-home physiotherapy helps clients heal faster, move better and avoid complications after surgery.

Home Care Physiotherapy and Post-Surgical Recovery

Recovering from surgeries such as joint replacements, spinal surgeries or soft tissue repairs involves more than just rest. Physiotherapy provides the structured approach needed to restore strength, rebuild movement and prevent complications. However, for many patients, travelling to a clinic during the early stages of recovery can be exhausting and painful.

After being cleared by a surgeon, home care physiotherapy can provide a convenient and effective way for clients to recover in the comfort of their own home. While each recovery is unique and will depend on the type of surgery and an individual’s overall health, in-home physiotherapy can offer many benefits, including:

• Faster Healing: Early movement and targeted exercises promote circulation, reduce stiffness and accelerate recovery.
• Tailored Rehabilitation: Customized therapy plans meet each client’s needs and schedule, ensuring consistency for a safer and more effective recovery.
• Lower Risk of Complications: Targeted therapy can prevent blood clots, infection and strengthen vulnerable areas to prevent reinjury.
• Increased Independence: Improved strength and mobility helps clients complete tasks around the home, supporting both their physical recovery and emotional well-being.
• Fall Prevention and Home Safety: Identifying hazards, recommending assistive devices and teaching caregivers lifting and transfer techniques all support a safer home.
• Emotional Support: Access to specialized care at home can help to reduce anxiety, provide motivation and offer reassurance throughout recovery.

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The Voices of Care

Our physiotherapists and physiotherapist assistants work tirelessly to deliver personalized care at home and in the community, playing a crucial role in helping clients regain mobility and independence after surgery. To help us better understand the impact of physiotherapy, and to recognize and thank our PTs and PTAs, two dedicated clinicians shared their perspectives on the rewards and challenges of their work.

Rushita Patel, Physiotherapist, South West Region, London

“Many people think that physiotherapy services just can’t be as effective in the home environment as they are in clinical settings. I love proving every day that you don’t need specialized or large-scale equipment to improve someone’s health and well-being. It feels great to see how happy my clients and their family members are when they realize that they don’t have to leave the comfort of their home to get the support that they need.

When I am able to help my elderly or homebound clients become as independent as possible, it really is thrilling. I love the idea of, ‘what goes around comes around’. I feel like the chance to help others every day in my profession comes right back to me. It is energizing and it makes me happy.”

Malini Ganesh, Physiotherapist, Champlain Rehab Solutions, Ottawa

“As a home care physiotherapist, I am proud to be able to deliver services in a familiar and comfortable environment to encourage my clients’ confidence and dignity. Helping my clients reach their goals, whether that’s getting back to work, to the grocery store or just a walk around the block, is so rewarding. Reducing my clients’ pain levels and improving strength, endurance and mobility can have such a big impact on not only their physical health but also their mental wellbeing.

Providing support in the place where my clients spend most of their time allows me to tailor my care to their specific needs and space to promote functional independence. Home care PTs are great problem solvers and amazing at thinking outside of the box. I truly love what I do.”

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Happy National Physiotherapy Month to our PTs and PTAs from all of us at VHA Home HealthCare and Champlain Rehab Solutions. We recognize and appreciate your dedication to helping clients regain strength, mobility and independence. Your commitment to supporting clients and their families makes a lasting impact today and every day!

If you or a loved one are recovering from surgery, a VHA physiotherapist may be able to help. Clients who are already receiving care from may also purchase additional hours through VHA’s Purchased Services. Additional hours are not covered by Ontario Health atHome but can be used as a supplementary “top up” of regular, ongoing care. You may also have coverage through extended health benefits.

VHA’s Enterprise Health Solutions team can help you get the care you need. To purchase services or find out more, call 416-489-2500 ext. 4649 or email ehs@vha.ca.