Physiotherapy
Physical therapists or Physiotherapists are highly educated, licensed health care professionals who can help patients reduce pain and improve or restore mobility and strength – in many cases without surgery and often reducing the need for long-term use of prescription medications and their side effects. Pain medications may help you relieve the episodes of pain, but it would not help you to treat the cause of the pain. There could be different causes of pain like Trauma to bone or tissue, Repetitive Strains/ Sprains, Poor Posture/ Alignment, Muscle imbalances, Fascial Restrictions, etc. Physiotherapists examine each individual and develop a plan, using treatment techniques to promote the ability to move, reduce pain, restore function, improve strength, and prevent disability. Physical therapists can teach clients how to prevent or manage their condition so that they will achieve long-term health benefits.
What to Expect in your 1st (Initial) Physiotherapy Visit?
Your first visit will take between 30-45 minutes depending on your problem. Concussions, Motor Vehicle injuries, Vertigo, Pelvic problems can take up to 1 hour. During this time, we will talk with you about your injury/condition of concern and ask you questions relating to your injury (what happened, how it happened), what your symptoms are (what your pain feels like) and what makes you feel better or worse. We’ll ask about previous injuries, other current or past medical conditions, as well as your daily activities in order to determine factors contributing to your problem. We will also ask you about your goals for attending Physiotherapy.
Your Physiotherapist will do a thorough Assessment for the development of a Clinical Diagnosis. After the clinical diagnosis is made, plan of care will be discussed with you. The plan may include the different treatment techniques, modalities, individualized exercise program, etc that can be used to help you meet your health goals. Your physiotherapist will also suggest the number of treatment sessions considered necessary for you to meet your goals.
How long should I expect for each treatment session?
The initial visit is usually longer and may be anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes. Subsequent sessions (depending on your condition) may take up to 30 to 45 minutes.
Do I need a doctor referral?
No, you do not need a doctor’s referral to receive physiotherapy. However, some benefits (Extended Health Insurance) plans require a referral for coverage. Please check with your Extended Health Insurance Company if they require you to obtain one prior to your appointment.
How do I prepare for the first visit?
- All clients are encouraged to arrive at least 10-15 minutes before their scheduled appointment time to complete the required clinic documents to receive care.
- Wear comfortable clothes that allow the therapist to see the area to be treated (e.g. shorts for leg/thigh injuries)
- Bring any relevant reports/test results if you have any (e.g., X-rays, ultrasound scan, MRI reports)
- Provide any relevant medical history
- Bring information on your Extended Health Insurance, WSIB claim or Motor Vehicle Accident Insurance if applicable
If you have any other questions in regard to the treatments offered at Helios, please contact us on +1 548 489 1009 and we will be happy to help you.