Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy combines in-depth knowledge of how the body works with specialized hands-on clinical skills to assess and treat symptoms of illness, injury or disability. Physiotherapists prescribe personalized therapeutic exercises, and provide essential education about the body, what keeps it from moving well, how to restore mobility and independence, and how to avoid or prevent bodily harm.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can a Physiotherapist help me?
What education does a Physiotherapist have?
Do I need a referral to see a Physiotherapist?
What can I expect on my first appointment?
Does Physiotherapy involve exercises?
What techniques will the Physiotherapist use?
Do insurance plans cover Chiropractic care?
Physiotherapy is a drug-free health care practice. Physiotherapy can be beneficial for many who suffer from musculo-skeletal conditions of the back or neck, or joint pain such as hips, knees, ankles, wrists, elbows or shoulders.
Prior to entering practice,Pphysiotherapists must graduate with an entry-level Master's degree from a physical therapy education program at one of 14 accredited universities in Canada. In order to practice in Ontario, Physiotherapists must be registered with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.
Some insurance companies require a note from a physician for reimbursement purposes. Check with your insurance provider. If medically necessary, you can receive a note from one of the physicians at the clinic by appointment.
The Physiotherapist will begin with an extensive assessment that may include health history, evaluation of pain and movement patterns, strength, joint range of motion, and other orthopedic tests.
Based on this assessment, your Physiotherapist will work in partnership with you to develop an individualized treatment program and prognosis.
Expect your physiotherapist to guide you in performing therapeutic exercises. Your progress will be monitored at follow-up visits and your physiotherapist may adjust your treatment according to changes in your body.
Yes, a Physiotherapist can prescribe therapeutic exercises to improve range of motion, muscle strength, posture and gait. A therapeutic Physiotherapy exercise program will be designed to address your individual health concern, and may involve exercises that can be done at home, or at the gym. To assist your recovery or maintain your functional independence, your physiotherapist may also prescribe assistive supportive or mobility devices, such as joint braces or crutches.
Your Physiotherapist's therapeutic treatment plan will involve education, exercise, and manual therapy components. Depending on your condition, this may include mobilization, manual therapy, work hardening, techniques and modalities to reduce pain, demonstration of therapeutic exercise, and education about your condition, treatment plan and prognosis for getting better.
By combining the principles of evidence-informed practice, evaluative skills, clinical and professional judgment, your Physiotherapist will work closely with you, and often with other health care professionals, to ensure that your health goals are met.
Yes. The majority of employees have partial or full coverage for Physiotherapy through their workplace health plans. OHIP does not cover these services (unless age under 19 or over 65). The Physiotherapy patient is provided with a detailed itemized receipt listing the services provided, the credentials of the Physiotherapist, as well as payment details for reimbursement.
