FAQs - Physiotherapy
What is physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy is a health care profession which helps people to restore, maintain and maximize their strength, function, movement, and overall well-being through examination, evaluation, diagnosis and physical intervention. Physiotherapy includes rehabilitation, as well as prevention of injury, and promotion of health and fitness. The terms "physiotherapy" and "physical therapy" mean the same thing and are used interchangeably, as are the terms “physiotherapist” and “physical therapist”.
Why see a physiotherapist?
Physiotherapists are regulated health care professionals through the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario. Physiotherapists have in depth knowledge and understanding of anatomy, physiology and pathology of the body. They are specialized in hands on care to clinically assess, diagnose and treat symptoms of injury and dysfunction. Physiotherapists continue to enhance their skills through ongoing post graduate education.
What to expect at your first appointment?
When you arrive you will be asked to read our Welcome letter and fill out and sign a consent form. Your first appointment will be an hour long assessment. Your physiotherapist will ask you specific questions to get a detailed history of your condition and current symptoms. You then may be asked to change into appropriate clothing as needed. Your physiotherapists will complete a posture and movement assessment. This will consist of specific tests for your area of injury as well as identifying the underlying cause and contributing factors. After your assessment your physiotherapist will educate you on your condition and discuss your treatment plan. Your physiotherapist may provide you with hands on therapy, corrective exercises or a pain relieving modality depending on your assessment findings.
What to expect during treatment?
Each treatment following your initial assessment will be approximately 30 minutes in length. Your treatment will change depending on your injury or condition, but will consist of manual therapy, active exercises, postural or corrective taping and pain modalities as needed as well as education.
Is physiotherapy covered by OHIP?
No, physiotherapy is not covered by OHIP at a private practice clinic. For more information on Physiotherapy and OHIP coverage please visit the link below.
http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/public/publications/ohip/physiotherapy.aspx
Do I need a doctor’s referral to see a Physiotherapist?
No. However, if you have extended health insurance through your workplace it may require you to have a doctor’s referral for coverage. You may check by simply calling your extended health insurance or your employer.
Do you bill my extended health insurance company directly?
Yes, we are able to bill directly for a number of insurance companies for physiotherapy and massage therapy services. Please contact us for further details.
Do you treat work-related injuries billed through Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB)?
Yes. Prior to attending your appointment you must report your injury to your employer and submit the appropriate WSIB paperwork. Please advise us at the time of booking if your injury will be billed through WSIB. Unfortunately, we cannot accept WSIB patients for massage therapy.
Do you treat injuries that have resulted from a motor vehicle accident (MVA)?
Yes. However, the law in Ontario is very particular when it comes to billing procedures for an MVA. If you have any extended health insurance benefits available to you, we are required to use all of those benefits before your car insurance company can be billed. For further clarification, please contact your car insurance claims adjuster. Please advise us at the time of booking if your injury is a result of a MVA.
What is orthopaedic and manual therapy?
Orthopaedic physiotherapy or manual therapy is physiotherapy in which a physiotherapist uses their hands to mobilize (specific technique to improve movement) the joints to reduce stiffness, relieve pain, increase movement and restore function. These techniques also include treating the soft tissue to improve length and strength. This includes a specific exercise program developed for your individual needs.