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What is Physiotherapy? Physiotherapy involves using a variety of techniques to help your muscles, joints, heart and lungs work to their potential. Physiotherapy can help individuals living with congenital or chronic diseases or other debilitating conditions and can assist those recovering from: surgery; illness; neurological conditions such as stroke; injury; industrial or motor vehicle accidents; or age related conditions. A physiotherapist is a university educated health professional and a recognized member of your health care team. When you see a physiotherapist, he or she will complete an extensive assessment that may include your health history, evaluation of pain and movement patterns, strength, joint range of motion, reflexes, sensation and cardio-respiratory status. In addition, the physiotherapist examines relevant x-rays, laboratory tests, medical records and surgical notes. Based on this assessment the physiotherapist establishes a diagnosis and works in partnership with you to develop individualized goals and treatment programs. Physiotherapy treatment can include therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, acupuncture, electrical modalities such as TENS or ultrasound, and work hardening. A physiotherapist promotes independence. Emphasis is placed on what you can do for yourself and on education to prevent future injuries or disability. Benefits of Physiotherapy Physiotherapists work in many areas including: Cardio-respiratory, orthopaedics, neurology, paediatrics, women's health, seniors' health, and sports. Physiotherapists are primary care practitioners. This means that people have direct access to physiotherapy services without the need for a physician referral. However, in order for physiotherapy services to be covered under OHIP or by some extended health insurance plans, you may require a doctor's referral. Physiotherapy in hospitals may be provided to in-patients staying in hospital or in an out-patient clinic. Many out-patient clinics provide rehabilitation programs for people who have had surgery, are recovering from strokes or heart attacks. Not all hospitals in Ontario have out-patient physiotherapy programs or ones that will meet your specific needs. Check with your local hospital for what services are available in your area. Long Term Care Homes may have a physiotherapist on staff or contract with local physiotherapists to provide the services. Some residents, or their families, obtain physiotherapy services through private means. Physiotherapy services may be delivered in your home through a Community Care Access Centre or CCAC. CCAC's have eligibility criteria for patients to receive physiotherapy and may have limits on the number of physiotherapy treatments available. To see if you qualify for CCAC delivered physiotherapy in your home contact your local CCAC directly. If you would like more information or to book an appointment please call 416-926-8794 or e-mail us: info@sageclinic.ca
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