Research

Physical Therapy offers critical tools and strategies for health promotion, disease prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and support of individuals living with injuries, health conditions, and disability across the lifespan to improve function and well-being. Achieving excellence in research with real world impact for enhancing the health of Canadians requires innovation and responsiveness to the changing needs of populations. Our research produces knowledge that builds our science and informs further research, education, clinical practice, and policy.

A graphic showing the PT Research platforms. More details below.

Research Platforms

Healthy Development and Aging

To strengthen and increase access to physical therapy, healthcare, and community systems that optimize the health and well-being of people across the lifespan.

Assessing Body Structure and Function

To determine the pathophysiological and biomechanical impairments that limit daily activities associated with acute and chronic health conditions affecting children and adults.

Social, Political, Ethical & Cultural Dimensions of Health and Disability

To investigate and address the social, political, ethical and cultural forces that shape how health, disease, and disability are understood and addressed in healthcare and rehabilitation and in various communities and societies.

Digital Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

To generate and translate evidence involving innovative digital, online, and/or artificial intelligence (AI) technologies for advancing education and implementation of rehabilitation assessment and interventions.

Click here for further information and examples of research in each pillar.

Programs of Research

Faculty are engaged in various programs of research that focus on developing tools and methods for preventing, treating, and supporting individuals living with injury, illness, and disability.

MScPT Student Research

Students are provided with the opportunity to develop foundational knowledge of the concepts as well as learn to apply this knowledge and develop their skills.