How the Planet Can Heal Us: Four Wellness Benefits of Nature
When we think about healing, we often focus on medicine, therapy, or high-tech treatments. But one of the most powerful—and often overlooked—sources of wellness is right outside our doors: nature itself. Beyond just being a scenic backdrop for exercise, the natural world actively supports our physical and mental health in surprising ways. Here’s how reconnecting with the Earth can help heal us—body and mind. Table of Contents 1. Ditch the Earbuds and Listen to Nature 2. Walk Barefoot to Reduce Inflammation 3. Soak Up Sunlight (Responsibly) for Vitamin D & More 4. Breathe [...]
Seated Exercises for People with Limited Mobility
Everyone can benefit from regular exercise no matter your age or ability. For people with limited mobility—whether due to injury, illness or age—finding exercises and activities that are safe yet effective for promoting better health can be challenging. Seated exercises can provide a great option to those with limited mobility, while still providing the same benefits for strength and endurance. In this blog we look at the types of conditions that would benefit from seated exercises, the evidence for this type of activity and the different types of exercises you can do in this position. Table of Contents: Who [...]
Inside Wheelchair Basketball: Rules, How Athletes Train, Compete & Stay Injury-Free
Propel Physiotherapy recently had the honour of sponsoring the Canadian Wheelchair Basketball National Championships. The event drew top athletes from across Canada in an exhilarating national-best‑on‑best competition, including men’s and women’s provincial teams, plus a recreational 3-on-3 divisions with free admission and live streaming for fans. Our Pickering crew was on hand to provide first-aid relief for the athletes. Many of our physiotherapists have experience working with wheelchair athletes and creating custom programs to increase strength and flexibility, optimize wheelchair propulsion and prevent injuries. Are you or someone you know considering joining a wheelchair basketball league or [...]
The Benefits of Physical Activity for Children with Autism
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) impacts how children connect with others and perceive their environment. Alongside therapies and educational support, promoting regular physical activity is essential for enhancing their health, well-being, and everyday experiences. For children with autism, movement is more than just play—it’s a pathway to better health, learning, and connection. From building motor skills and improving focus to reducing anxiety and encouraging social interaction, regular physical activity supports many of the challenges children with ASD face in daily life. Research has shown that children with autism are significantly less active than their neurotypical peers, often due to sensory sensitivities, [...]
How to Pace Your Physical Activity to Better Support Recovery
Have you ever had one of those 'good days' when you walk into the clinic for your rehab session feeling energized and motivated, only to push yourself a little too hard? It feels great in the moment, driven by the excitement of progress and the desire to regain your former strength. However, the consequences often catch up with you the next day – stiffness, soreness, exhaustion, and perhaps even a setback in your recovery. It’s a common experience for many undergoing rehabilitation and you're certainly not alone in feeling this way. Many people face the same challenge of balancing [...]
Rib Fracture Symptoms, Causes and Management
Rib fractures can cause severe pain especially during breathing, coughing, or movement. Complications such as pneumonia, lung collapse, and pleural effusion may also occur, particularly if shallow breathing is developed. Effective physiotherapy is important in the management of rib fracture symptoms, to promote healing and prevent long-term complications. In this article, we discuss how rib fractures occur and how they can be properly managed. Table of Contents: How Rib Fractures Occur Rib Fracture Symptoms Secondary Complications from Rib Fractures The Role of Physiotherapy in Rib Fracture Management Conclusion How Rib Fractures Occur Rib fractures occur when [...]