Question 1

How can physiotherapy help me?

Accepted Answer

Our physiotherapists aim to reduce your pain and get you active again as quickly as possible. We diagnose your injury, identify the cause of your pain, and provide an individualized treatment plan that includes manual therapy, strengthening, and corrective exercises. We also explain your injury and implement strategies to reduce the risk of reinjury.

Question 2

How long does a physiotherapy treatment session last?

Accepted Answer

Your initial treatment is about 45 minutes. Follow-up treatments are 30 minutes. Each session is one-on-one with the physiotherapist's undivided attention and tailored to your specific rehabilitation needs.

Question 3

What should I expect at my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

Your physiotherapist will take a full case history and perform a physical examination, which may involve moving certain parts of your body and palpating areas of reduced mobility. You may need to remove some clothing for assessment, and you are welcome to bring a support person. The physiotherapist will explain your diagnosis, discuss treatment options, and may refer you for X-rays or scans. You will likely receive simple home exercises to support your recovery.

Question 4

Can I ask questions about my diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Patients are encouraged to ask as many questions about their diagnosis and treatment as needed. If we are unable to help you, we will do our best to refer you to the most appropriate doctor, specialist, or therapist.

Question 5

How many treatments will I need?

Accepted Answer

There is no single answer; no two people are the same. Recovery is influenced by the type and nature of the injury, severity, your history, goals, age, current health, and participation in rehabilitation. Your physiotherapist will provide a more accurate estimate following a thorough assessment.

Question 6

What can I expect in my first massage appointment?

Accepted Answer

Arrive 15 minutes early to complete the client intake form, which gives your therapist background on your health, lifestyle, and reason for treatment. For a full body massage, the therapist will leave the room so you can disrobe to your underwear and lie face down on the table under the towel provided. The therapist will return and adjust the table, cushioning, and towels for your comfort. You are free to chat or remain silent during treatment. Afterwards, the therapist will leave you to re-dress and meet you at reception to rebook.

Question 7

How long should I book my massage appointment for?

Accepted Answer

Massage appointments are generally 60 minutes to allow time to discuss main concerns and incorporate treatment. We also offer 30, 45, and 90 minute sessions. If you believe your condition needs less time, contact us to discuss and we will work to accommodate.

Question 8

Is it normal to feel sore after a massage?

Accepted Answer

It is very common for muscles to be sore for up to two to three days after a massage, especially if it has been a long time between treatments. This is normal. We recommend gentle movement and increasing your fluid intake to help your body recover. All massage visits are one-on-one, with duration based on your booked time.

Question 9

What if I arrive late for my appointment?

Accepted Answer

Life happens and we try to be as flexible as possible. However, late arrival may result in shortened treatment time so the next client is not delayed, and you will be charged accordingly. If we have had a cancellation or have time available, we may be able to extend your session for the full booked time. Time cannot be made up at a later date.

Question 10

What can I expect on my first chiropractic visit?

Accepted Answer

Arrive about 15 minutes early to complete intake forms, which give your chiropractor insight into your current condition and health history. Your chiropractor will then take a thorough clinical history and perform a comprehensive physical, neurological, and postural examination. X-rays may be required. You will receive a brief explanation of the findings and, if clinically indicated, your first treatment.

Question 11

What is a chiropractic treatment?

Accepted Answer

A chiropractic adjustment is the skill of using a specific force in a precise direction, applied to a joint that is fixated, locked up, or not moving properly. This adds motion to the joint and helps it gradually regain more normal function. The purpose of this safe and natural procedure is to permit improved spinal function, improved nervous system function, and improved health.

Question 12

Is chiropractic care suitable for children?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Significant trauma can occur at birth, so many parents choose to have newborns checked for spinal health issues. Later, learning to walk, riding a bicycle, and other childhood activities can also cause spinal issues. While a bandage and comforting words help a skinned knee, the potential underlying structural impact on a child's spine, skull, pelvis, and extremities is the unique domain of a chiropractor. Many childhood complaints brushed off as growing pains may be traceable to the spine.

Question 13

Am I too old for chiropractic care?

Accepted Answer

No. More people are consulting chiropractors in their later years, especially given growing concerns about over-medication and side effects of combining prescription drugs. Restoring better spinal function can improve mobility, vitality, endurance, and appetite. Many older patients report improvements with arthritic symptoms and other chronic ailments associated with aging. Adjusting techniques are modified for maximum comfort and results.

Question 14

For how long will I need chiropractic care?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your situation. Long-standing problems neglected since childhood may require ongoing supportive care, especially when associated with muscle weakness, soft tissue damage, or degenerative changes. Most patients find periodic checkups help keep them in top shape, and active people or those with stressful jobs often benefit from preventative visits. Some patients only seek care when pain becomes unbearable. How long you continue care is always up to you.

Question 15

What is acupuncture?

Accepted Answer

Acupuncture is a form of therapy in which fine needles are inserted into specific points on the body to stimulate healing, reduce pain, and restore balance.

Question 16

Is acupuncture safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Potential risks are outlined in the consent form. The main risk (over 1%) is bleeding, and serious side effects are very rare, occurring in fewer than 1 per 10,000 treatments.

Question 17

Does acupuncture work?

Accepted Answer

Yes. There are many large studies on acupuncture, and it is statistically significantly better than placebo. The specific techniques used are clinically proven, and many patients, such as headache sufferers, experience immediate relief of symptoms.

Question 18

Do I need to prepare for acupuncture treatment?

Accepted Answer

Generally no preparation is needed. We recommend having routine meals, avoiding coffee for 2 hours before the consultation, and wearing clothing that allows easy access to your forearms and legs.

Question 19

I want to get foot orthotics - how do I go about this?

Accepted Answer

Book an initial consultation with one of our Pedorthists. At this appointment we will diagnose your condition and take a scan or impression of your foot.

Question 20

What should I bring to my orthotics consultation?

Accepted Answer

Bring a doctor's referral (if you have one) and footwear you use for exercise, work or school, and common casual wear (lower limb issues only).

Question 21

Do you sell compression stockings?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All stockings are ordered and can take up to a week to arrive.

Question 22

How long will the orthotics take to make?

Accepted Answer

Custom devices such as foot orthotics take approximately 2 weeks to fabricate.

Question 23

What is a back brace?

Accepted Answer

It is easy to be confused about what counts as a back brace; many consumer devices claim to stabilize the back. Back braces can come in metal or plastic and are designed to support the back. They protect areas ranging from the entire body to just the lower back. Regardless of design, back braces are typically used to encourage healing by reducing the workload on the back.

Question 24

Should I be wearing a back brace?

Accepted Answer

Many people who suffer from lower back pain due to a herniated disk or degenerative disk disease consider a back brace for relief. Although most back brace users have one of these conditions, consulting with a professional is the best way to determine if a brace will benefit your unique case.

Question 25

How can a back brace help?

Accepted Answer

Back braces provide muscular and spinal support in the lower back. By keeping your body in correct alignment, a brace keeps pressure off your spine. Since spinal pressure is most likely the primary cause of your pain, a back brace can lessen that pressure and promote comfort.

Question 26

How often should I wear a back brace?

Accepted Answer

Every situation is different, so this varies case by case. As a general rule, the more pain you experience, the more often you should use a brace. Wearing one can help you get through a busy day and provide much needed relief for either acute or chronic back pain.

Question 27

What is naturopathic medicine?

Accepted Answer

Naturopathic medicine is a distinct primary health care system that blends modern scientific knowledge with traditional and natural forms of medicine. It is based on the healing power of nature and supports and stimulates the body's ability to heal itself. Naturopathic medicine is the art and science of disease diagnosis, treatment, and prevention using natural therapies.

Question 28

How does naturopathic medicine compare to conventional medicine?

Accepted Answer

Both naturopathic and conventional doctors provide primary care and are similarly trained. The main differences are the philosophical approach and the therapies used. Naturopathic doctors (NDs) treat patients as individuals, addressing the physical, environmental, lifestyle, attitudinal, and emotional aspects of health. This allows them to find and treat the cause of disease using a variety of therapies. Conventional doctors generally address and treat symptoms using pharmaceutical therapies or surgery.

Question 29

How long are appointments with naturopathic doctors?

Accepted Answer

ND visits range between 15 and 60 minutes. Initial consultations are typically 1 hour, and follow-up visits range between 15 and 45 minutes. At your appointment you will be asked about your main health concerns, diet, lifestyle, prior health history, family medical history, current medications and supplements, and anything else relevant to your health goals.

Question 30

How often do I need to come for naturopathic treatment?

Accepted Answer

The naturopathic doctor's goal is to understand the patient and all the factors impacting their health. A personal treatment plan is developed to facilitate the healing process, and the plan is different for every patient. Consult with your naturopathic doctor for more information on what a personalized plan for your specific health needs may involve.

Question 31

What is the difference between naturopathy and homeopathy?

Accepted Answer

Naturopathy is a system of medicine that draws on the best of conventional medicine and the wisdom of various traditions. Homeopathy is one of these traditions and refers to remedies based on the principle of "like cures like," developed by German physician Samuel Hahnemann in the 19th century. While not used by conventional doctors in North America, homeopathy is commonly recommended in Europe by medical doctors alongside regular prescription drugs. In Ontario, naturopaths sometimes recommend homeopathic remedies as part of a comprehensive, individualized treatment plan.

Question 32

Do you offer direct billing to insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We direct bill to most major insurance providers including Sun Life, Manulife, Great-West Life, Canada Life, Green Shield, Blue Cross, and many more. You typically pay nothing upfront.

Question 33

How do I know if my insurance covers your services?

Accepted Answer

Contact us with your insurance provider name and we will check for you. Most extended health plans cover physiotherapy, massage therapy, chiropractic, and acupuncture.

Question 34

Is MVA treatment covered?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Motor vehicle accident rehabilitation is covered by your auto insurance. We handle all paperwork and bill your insurer directly, with no out-of-pocket cost for approved treatments.

Question 35

Do you accept WSIB claims?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We provide comprehensive WSIB rehabilitation services and coordinate directly with WSIB and your employer.

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