Tom Schlacht

CERTIFICATIONS

iTEC – Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sports Massage (2022)
ProActive Training – Kinesiology Taping (2022)
ProActive Training – Taping and Strapping (2022)

ABOUT TOM SCHLACHT

Tom graduated with distinction from Glasgow Caledonian University in Scotland in 2023, earning his Master’s of Science in Physiotherapy. Before moving across the pond, Tom completed his Bachelor of Kinesiology at the University of Alberta, where he also graduated with distinction. Since graduating, Tom has gained experience working with a variety of musculoskeletal injuries and conditions such as sports injuries, work-related injuries, and motor vehicle accident injuries. He is also well-versed in working with patients who are preparing for and have undergone orthopedic surgeries such as hip, knee, and shoulder replacements, ACL reconstructions, and rotator cuff repairs. Tom has published research, and is interested in keeping up to date with the latest research and evidence. Tom lives an active lifestyle including lifting weights and running, fueled by a good cup of coffee every morning.

Why did you become a Physiotherapist?
Growing up playing sports and living an active lifestyle, I’ve had several injuries. When I was 14 years old, I tore my ACL playing basketball. After this injury I worked with a physiotherapist pre- and post-operatively, a process that was over a year. This gave me a glimpse into what physiotherapy involved. Years later I was seeing a physiotherapist for an ankle injury while pursuing my kinesiology degree, and it was at this time that I realized working as a physiotherapist would be an opportunity for me to combine my passions for health and fitness with helping people get back to the things they love.

Do you have an area of special interest?
After going through a couple of surgeries myself, I really enjoy working with people who are preparing for, or have undergone orthopedic surgeries. I also enjoy working with sprains and strains, as well as working with people after they have had a fracture. Having experienced chronic ankle issues, I have a particular interest in working with ankle injuries as well.

How does movement impact your life?
Movement is a big part of my life. I enjoy running and lifting weights, as well as trying all kinds of new sports and activities. I believe that movement and exercise can do wonders for both physical and mental wellbeing, so I try to incorporate some type of physical activity into every day.

What does a great physiotherapy experience look like to you?
A great physiotherapy experience has several components. I think it is so important that patients have the opportunity to tell their story and to be heard. A thorough assessment and personalized treatment plan are also needed – these are vital to helping people get back to the things they love. Progressions through the treatment plan should be made collaboratively based on feedback from patients, not following a cookie-cutter program.