The major conditions managed by physical therapists can be broadly grouped into three categories: musculoskeletal, cardiopulmonary and neurological. Many areas of physiotherapy, we cross all three areas.
A physical therapist will initially conduct a subjective examination (interview) of a patient's medical history, and then go on to the objective assessment (physical examination). The subjective examination is guided by the presenting system and complaint, and the objective assessment is in turn guided by the history.

This semi-structured process is used to rule out serious pathology, establish functional limitations, refine the diagnosis, guide therapy, and establish a baseline for monitoring progress. As such, the objective exam will then use certain quantifiable measurements to both guide diagnosis and for progress monitoring. These depend upon the system (and area) being managed.

Guided by the assessment findings, the physical therapist will then develop and facilitate a treatment plan. Aside from the various physiotherapeutic techniques involved in therapy, the treatment regimen may include prescribing and advice regarding assistive walking devices; should consider functional progress; and include ongoing review and refinement. Patient education is a key aspect of all treatment plans.

Various therapeutic physiotherapy modalities are available, including exercise prescription (strength, motor control, stretching and endurance), manual techniques, soft tissue massage, and various forms of so-called "electro physical agents" (such as ultrasound, laser and electrotherapy). At Vernon Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Clinic, we have available a full physical therapy lab, including various exercise machines, swiss balls, modern hi-low treatment tables, and other equipment including a good sense of humor .