Physical Therapists in Canada - Market Size, Industry Analysis, Trends and Forecasts (2024-2029)

Physiotherapists adopted nimble business strategies to maintain revenue during the pandemic. Despite a drop in in-person sessions and the additional costs of protective measures, mobile apps and telemedicine supported the continuity of service and strong performance for most of the years post-pandemic. Mitigating declines in per capita income, the declines in the unemployment rate supported total healthcare expenditures and the ability of individuals to afford physiologist services, and industry revenue is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.8% to $4.7 billion through 2024, including a 0.9% rise in 2024, when profit will reach 31.8%.

Trends and Insights

• The aging population is driving an increased demand for physical therapy.
• Many adults aged 65 and older are developing chronic conditions needing therapy, resulting in a need for more practices to support this expanding patient base. Musculoskeletal conditions necessitate physiotherapy for adults 65 and older.
• As these conditions persist, healthcare providers are developing expanded treatment options to better serve this demographic. Ontario is the most populated province.
• Its high density and major urban areas provide physiotherapists with a substantial patient base, ensuring ongoing service demand. Patients prefer to stick with their therapists to avoid treatment disruptions.
• Strong patient-therapist bonds make them less likely to switch based on price changes.

Industry Overview

Industry revenue has grown at a CAGR of 4.8 % over the past five years, to reach an estimated $4.7bn in 2024.

Trends and Insights

Physiotherapists were flexible during the pandemic While the pandemic affected many industries, much of the healthcare sector remained open since it was considered essential. Even so, many patients and clinics cancelled or postponed appointments at the height of the pandemic to mitigate the spread. Others delayed physical therapy if their injury did not significantly constrain their daily activities.

Industry outlook (2024-2029)

Market size is projected to grow over the next five years.

Trends and Insights

• Rising costs continue to place pressure on profit
• Physiotherapy practices will continue to struggle with a staff shortage. Shortages for physiotherapists specializing in geriatrics will become more apparent as the number of graduates cannot keep pace with the increase in the older adult population.