Leading change: a trailblazer behind Canadian Armed Forces physiotherapy

July 8, 2026 - Defence Stories

Estimated read time: 1:57

When he joined the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) more than two decades ago, Lieutenant-Colonel (LCol) Dan Trudel was one of just eight Physiotherapy Officers. His occupation lacked the critical staff and programs needed to support military members.

"Health services are the backbone of the CAF," he said. "When members are injured or unwell, getting them the right care quickly is critical to keeping the force ready and resilient."

LCol Trudel helped changed that.

Thanks to the mentorship he received, he first focused on standardizing physiotherapy practices to improve the profession's visibility and continuity of care. He helped establish the CAF Athletic Trainer Program in 2006. This initiative provides standardized medical coverage for military sports. The program now has more than 250 athletic trainers and provides support to regional, national, and international competitions.

In Afghanistan, LCol Trudel was part of a trial as the first two-person physiotherapy team and their success led to the creation of a second permanent position. He later supported the creation of a clinic in Latvia, which remains part of the CAF's capacity today.

Finally, he led the development of the Medical Return to Duty Access Process. This national initiative, started in 2017, now facilitates the reintegration of injured CAF members.

LCol Trudel has received multiple recognitions. Most recently, in March 2025, he was honoured with the Order of Military Merit, which recognizes distinctive merit and exceptional service by CAF members. The award was especially important to him: his father was also a recipient.

"I remember when my father was inducted, I was extremely proud of him. Especially once I understood what the award represented. Learning that I had been selected was an incredible honour," he said.

However, LCol Trudel emphasizes that his occupation's evolution was, above all, the result of a shared journey.

"I've always seen myself as continuing the work others started," he said. "This recognition isn't just for me. It's for everyone who mentored, supported, and worked alongside me throughout my career."

Physiotherapy is crucial to CAF readiness. It keeps members functional. Now with 42 Physiotherapy Officer positions, the occupation continues to expand.

"Physiotherapy is a force multiplier," LCol Trudel said. "When you help one person return to function, it strengthens their team, their unit, and ultimately the entire force. That's something we've all contributed to."

Now serving outside of the occupation in a leadership role as Senior Staff Officer for the Health Services Secretariat, LCol Trudel is proud of his roots.

"I am no longer directly involved in leading the occupation, but it is in great hands," he said. "The next generation of physiotherapists is already driving innovation in care, education, and operations. I'm grateful to have been part of the foundation they're building on."