What are physiotherapists trained to do? 

Physiotherapists are university trained healthcare professionals who help people of all ages restore normal function and mobility. Physiotherapists utilize a variety of physical treatments including joint mobilization and manipulation, soft tissue techniques, stretching, exercise and education. In addition, they utilize a variety of modalities including ultrasound, electrical current, and acupuncture to assist the healing process. Physiotherapists are able to help you increase your mobility, relieve pain, build strength, and improve balance while teaching you ways to prevent the onset or recurrence of injury in the future.

Is a physician referral required to see a physiotherapist in a private practice physiotherapy clinic? 

In Manitoba and Saskatchewan, physiotherapists are considered primary health care providers and do not require a physician’s referral to provide treatment. However, it may be required by the individual insurance company or funding program to ensure coverage of treatment costs. If you carry private insurance, check with your insurance provider for coverage specifics.

I have been referred by my doctor for physiotherapy but I have no idea what to expect. What does a typical physiotherapy session involve? 

Physiotherapy (provided by a registered physiotherapist) typically includes: 

• Assessment of the current problem area/condition including a detailed history and gathering of relevant test results.
• Formulation of a diagnosis &/or problem list.
• Treatment (including clinic based treatments and home program).
• Patient education with regards to their diagnosis/problem, planned interventions, expected frequency and duration of treatments, home program, activity avoidance, and prevention.
• Ongoing evaluation to monitor improvement during the treatment program.
• Consultation with other members of the healthcare team (such as family physician or specialist) as warranted.

What is acupuncture and how does it work? 

Acupuncture involves inserting needles into specific areas of the body called acupuncture points. It is commonly used by physiotherapists to treat acute and chronic pain, neurogenic pain, headaches and myofascial pain syndromes. Acupuncture works by stimulating your own body’s neuroendocrine system to produce endorphins, which are the body’s own pain relieving chemicals. It is also used to release tender trigger points in muscles to restore muscle length thus relieving pressure on the nerves, improving mobility and restoring normal function.

Are there any exercises that I should be doing after breast surgery (lumpectomy/mastectomy)?

Most definitely! Exercise can help you: resume daily activities, maintain movement in your arm and shoulder, improve muscle tone, decrease joint stiffness, reduce pain in the neck and back area, and manage lymphedema. Together, the Canadian Cancer Society and the Canadian Physiotherapy Association have developed an exercise program that can be started right after your surgery. Talk to your doctor or physiotherapist prior to starting an exercise program. We can ensure proper technique, guide your exercise progression, and monitor your post-op recovery. 

I would like to attend for physiotherapy at a private clinic but I don’t have any insurance coverage. What do you suggest? 

Not too worry! Approximately 10% of our clients pay out of pocket for our services. We are committed to providing quality physiotherapy services that are tailored to you, allowing your total number of visits to be kept to a minimum. Our physiotherapists will complete a thorough assessment to develop a diagnosis and work in partnership with you to plan a treatment program based on your personal goals.

What are orthotics and when are they indicated? 

Orthotics are custom made insoles designed for people of all ages to compensate for lower body conditions such as: 

• Flat/High Arched Feet
• P Bunions 
• P Plantar Fasciitis
• P Abnormal Patellar Tracking
• P Shin Splints
• P Callus / Neuroma
• P Recurrent Ankle Sprains
• P Metatarsalgia
• P Low Back Pain 

It may not be essential in all of the above listed conditions that orthotics be prescribed. However, if the condition is severe, or is unresponsive to other treatment regimes, it may be necessary to correct the positional fault in the foot or ankle in order to alleviate the symptoms.