The Importance of Free Play and Risk in Childhood Development
We know that play is essential for children to develop skills like problem-solving, creativity, and social interaction. It can also help reduce stress, improve mental health, and enhance overall well-being. However, not all play is created equally. Free play is a rich sensory experience that fosters exploration and independence in children. Whereas, structured play involves far less creativity and risk, and is often less fun. In this blog, we look at several reasons free play opportunities are disappearing, the dangers of overparenting particularly as it relates to play and how to give your child more opportunities for free play and [...]
How Occupational Therapy Supports Healthy Aging
Aging is a natural part of life, but maintaining independence, safety, and quality of life as we grow older often requires thoughtful support. Occupational therapy (OT) plays a crucial role in helping older adults navigate the physical, cognitive, and environmental challenges that come with aging. By focusing on personalized strategies—from enhancing mobility and preventing falls to promoting cognitive health and equipping caregivers—OT empowers seniors to live more confidently and autonomously. In Canada, where nearly 25% of the population will be 65+ by 2030 (Statistics Canada), occupational therapists are essential in addressing [...]
How to Manage Healthcare Work While Pregnant
Pregnancy is an exciting and deeply personal journey, but it can also bring unexpected challenges --especially in a physically demanding job like physiotherapy, massage therapy or nursing. As your body changes, so too might your comfort, energy levels, and physical capacity throughout the day. But being pregnant doesn’t mean having to step away from your role as a clinician. With the right modifications, many physiotherapists can continue working safely and effectively throughout their pregnancy. At our clinic, we believe that supporting the health of our team is just as important as supporting the health of [...]
10 Reasons You Should Try Telerehabilitation
While in-person care can be essential, telerehabilitation (virtual physiotherapy) has emerged as a proven, effective alternative to in-person care, especially for those who face barriers like mobility challenges, transportation issues, or time constraints. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telerehabilitation, and research confirms its effectiveness. Studies show that virtual physiotherapy delivers comparable outcomes to in-person care for many conditions. As a registered physiotherapist in Ontario, I work with many people rehabilitating from orthopaedic and neurological issues—from joint pain and post-surgical recovery to stroke rehabilitation and other chronic neurological conditions. In this article, we look at [...]
Internationally Educated Physiotherapists Bridging Ontario’s Healthcare Gap
Canada’s population is not only growing but also aging, putting increased pressure on our healthcare system. Over the past decade, this system has faced significant challenges, from the lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic to limited access to primary care. As demand for healthcare services rises, physiotherapy has become essential in helping Canadians maintain their mobility, function, and overall quality of life. To meet the demands of our healthcare system and an aging population, internationally educated physiotherapists (IEPTs) have played a significant role in helping Canadians address their rehabilitation needs. In 2022, IEPTs made up [...]
Mindfulness Strategies to Combat Caregiver Burnout
Caring for someone with a chronic illness, physical or mental disability, or the challenges of aging is an act of deep love and devotion—but it can also take a quiet toll on your physical and psychological health. The demands of caregiving stretch beyond time, physical and emotional effort; they reshape relationships, redefine roles, and often come with unseen emotional and financial costs. Over time, these pressures can ripple through every aspect of a caregiver’s health and overall wellbeing, leaving exhaustion, stress and even illness in their wake. Mindfulness offers several evidence-based [...]