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When Should I See a Kinesiologist for Treatment?


October 15th, 2024

What is a Kinesiologist?

A kinesiologist is a health professional who is trained in the study of movement. They assess movement and use scientific principles from anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and psychomotor behavior (the thought processes of movement) to improve movement. Kinesiologists provide injury rehabilitation, chronic disease management, assistance with ergonomics, and athletic training. They help bridge the gap between physical rehabilitation and fitness training and improvement.

How is a Kinesiologist Different than a Physiotherapist or a Personal Trainer?

There is some overlap between physiotherapy and kinesiology. The former aim to reduce pain and restore function through the use of passive treatments such as manual therapy, electrotherapy, and active treatments such as stretching. Kinesiology focuses on exercise-based interventions and overall movement patterns.

Personal Trainer are certified fitness instructors certified through various fitness organizations. They generally work with healthy individuals with specific fitness goals such as improving performance or losing weight. A kinesiologist has a 4-year university degree and is trained in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and psychology. They design and implement programs based on an individual’s current health and condition. Kinesiologist work with individuals with chronic diseases, disabilities, or those recovering from injuries and guide them through active rehabilitation exercises that will help them accomplish their daily tasks more easily. Kinesiologists also incorporate injury prevention in their work.  

Should I See a Kinesiologist?

Kinesiologists are best suited to treat chronic conditions and general movement issues such as balance or walking up the stairs and to offer preventive care to avoid injury, pain, and other issues. To determine your need for a kinesiologist and active rehabilitation, you can ask your doctor if active rehabilitation is appropriate, meet with a kinesiologist to discuss your situation, and assess your own need based on the following 6 situations.

1. Nature of the Issue

If your pain or problem is chronic rather than an acute injury, a specific pain condition such as a torn ligament, or post-surgical rehabilitation, active rehabilitation may be right for you. 

2. Pain Level

Kinesology is not the treatment to resolve severe or persistent pain, but mild discomfort or difficulty completing tasks can be improved through kinesiology

3. Treatment Goals

If you seek to improve your overall movement patterns, prevent injury, and/or enhance your physical performance kinesiology is a good option.

4. Stage of Recovery

Kinesiology is best during the later stages of injury or surgery recovery and for ongoing maintenance and injury prevention.

5. Specific Symptoms

Balance, coordination, and the ability to complete daily tasks can be improved through active rehabilitation and other a kinesiology approaches.

6. Preference of Treatment

If you like active, exercise-based interventions more than passive treatments, kinesiology could be fit for you.

See a Kinesiologist on the Lower Mainland

To find out more about kinesiology and active rehabilitation, call Back in Motion Health. We have 6 clinics in Greater Vancouver to help you gain the strength and fitness you need to accomplish your daily tasks. To learn more or book a consultation, contact us today or visit us in AbbotsfordCoquitlamNorth VancouverRichmondSurrey or Vancouver.

Achyuta Sukumar | Kinesiologist


Achyuta, a registered Kinesiologist with the BC Association of Kinesiologists, holds a degree from the University of British Columbia. He specializes in exercise rehabilitation for individuals of all ages and abilities. As a passionate advocate for the transformative power of functional movement and exercise, Achyuta is dedicated to fostering rehabilitation and overall well-being.

Book online with Achyuta Sukumar in Vancouver!