Are physiotherapy sessions covered by insurance?
Yes! Physiotherapy is covered under most extended health plans. We suggest you review your plan to see what coverage you currently have for physiotherapy services.
How long does a typical physiotherapy session last?
Initial physiotherapy sessions last between 45 and 60 minutes. During that time we gather a full history, complete a comprehensive assessment, review a treatment plan with you, and begin some initial treatment. Subsequent sessions will last 30 to 60 minutes depending on the nature of your injury, number of injuries, and complexity. Your physiotherapist will review the treatment plan with you and discuss the expected length of subsequent sessions.
Do I need a referral from a doctor to see a physiotherapist?
No. In British Columbia, individuals can directly access physiotherapy services without a referral from a doctor.
What can I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?
You will receive an email prior to your initial assessment that will ask you certain questions about your injury or condition. On the day of your initial physiotherapy session, we advise that you wear something comfortable that allows you to move freely.
Your initial appointment is a 1-on-1 private session with one of our physiotherapists and will last between 45 and 60 minutes. During this time, expect your physiotherapist to gather a full history, complete a comprehensive assessment, review your treatment goals, discuss a treatment plan with you, and begin some initial treatment as time permits.
Are the exercises prescribed during physiotherapy sessions tailored to my specific needs?
Absolutely YES. We thrive on completing a comprehensive assessment that is tailored to your specific presentation. Based on the assessment you will be provided exercises that are specific to your needs. We pride ourselves on not giving out the typical cookie cutter exercises and hoping for the best. It’s all about getting you the proper exercises that help you reach your goals in a timely manner.
Can physiotherapy help with chronic pain management?
Yes! We treat many patients with chronic pain. Physiotherapy for chronic pain conditions can help individuals who suffer an array of complex, persisting, long term, and reoccurring pain syndromes. The aim of physiotherapy is to alleviate pain, improve well-being and benefit participation in life by use of a broad range of interventions.
How many physiotherapy sessions might I need to see improvement?
This varies from case to case, but on average expect to attend between 4 to 8 sessions of physiotherapy to help you reach your treatment goals.
Are physiotherapy services suitable for individuals of all ages?
Yes! Physiotherapists are well educated in treatment across the entire lifespan.
Can physiotherapy be a part of preventive healthcare, or is it mainly for treating existing conditions?
Yes, physiotherapy can be part of your preventative healthcare team. Evidence based examples of this include soccer players being prescribed an knee injury prevention program for an upcoming soccer season. Another example might be a providing a education and a proper warm up program for a rugby player that helps decrease the players risk of concussion and lower body injuries. Please note that despite strong evidence for prevention programs, some insurance companies do not cover physiotherapy if it is being used for injury prevention purposes. We advise you to confirm with your extended health plan to ensure your fees will be covered prior to your sessions in these scenarios.