Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Physiotherapy?
Physiotherapists are licensed health care professionals who are specially trained to assess patients, prescribe suitable treatment programs, monitor progress, and to provide hands-on assistance towards the goal of returning to activities (sports, work, family activities) or increase independence. They use their knowledge to assess, diagnose and treat your musculoskeletal complaints using an integrative approach.
Q: What kind of physiotherapy treatment can I expect?
- Manual therapies such as mobilizations, manipulation or massage;
- Therapeutic modalities using modern equipment and methods;
- Work-related or sports rehabilitation geared to specific problems
- Corrective exercise programs (strengthening/stretching)
- Educational programs
- Orthotic services
- Acupuncture/Dry Needling
Q: What should I bring to my first appointment?
If you have a prescription/referral from your doctor for physiotherapy, please bring this to your first appointment. If you are paying with your private insurance please bring the appropriate forms and cards with you. If you are a Worker’s Compensation Board (WCB) referral, bring your WCB claim number with you. If you were in a motor vehicle accident and are using MPI, please be sure all necessary forms are completed (see Forms Page). Please allow extra time to discuss these and other methods of payment with the receptionist.
Bring loose appropriate clothing so that the therapist can exam the area (measure strength, range of movement, evaluate the quality of the movement).
Q: What should I wear?
Loose fitting and comfortable clothing such as shorts and a t-shirt are appropriate for most assessments and treatments. If you have a lower extremity injury, bring or wear shorts. If you forget anything or wear the wrong clothes, we have gowns and shorts at all of our locations. Your physiotherapist will let you know if you need to bring anything else.
Q: How early should I arrive before my first appointment?
We ask all new patients to arrive approximately 10-15 minutes early for their first appointment in order to complete intake paperwork. We make every attempt to be as flexible as possible for all of our patients but being on time is important. We will do our best to stay on time as well.
Q: What if I’m running late or can’t make an appointment?
We ask for your understanding if circumstances beyond our control result in appointment delays. If you cannot fit the delay into your timetable, we’ll be happy to reschedule your appointment.
Q: What about additional paperwork?
Q: Do I need a prescription or referral from my doctor?
No. Everyone in Canada has direct access to physiotherapy, eliminating the need for a physician prescription for treatment. Many patients choose a physical therapist to evaluate their musculoskeletal injury first. We are a partner in your care and recognize there are certain medical conditions beyond our scope of expertise. We will work with your physician directly or refer you to the appropriate specialist should physical therapy treatment not be appropriate.
Some private insurance plans still require a physician prescription so we will work with you to determine the necessary next steps. For MPI and WCB claims, it is advised you speak with your physician before or after your initial physiotherapy assessment.
Q: Will my insurance cover therapy?
Yes. In most cases, your private insurance plan has some level of physical therapy benefits. Because all plans are different, we make every effort to verify benefits and communicate this with you. Much of it will depend on your health plan and what they are willing to cover. Fortunately, many people are recognizing the value of physical therapy in reducing healthcare costs through injury prevention, patient education, lifestyle changes, and overall wellness.
For MPI patients, physical therapy sessions are covered after opening an injury claim following a motor vehicle accident.
For Worker’s Compensation, your medical expenses are covered under the Worker’s Compensation laws in Manitoba.
Q: How long will my appointment take?
Generally speaking, your first appointment will last approximately an hour. Follow up visit length will depend on a variety of factors including the severity of your injury, your functional goals and your treatment plan. Whether 30 minutes or 2 hours, our effort is directed at a treatment program specific to you and your needs.
Q: How many visits of therapy do I need?
It depends. Your therapist will work with you following your evaluation to best outline a plan specific to your condition. Everyone is different therefore, it’s often dependent on multiple factors.
Q: What are your hours?
Each clinic is different so make sure to ask when scheduling your appointments. We will make every attempt to be flexible to work with your schedule.