Frequently Asked Questions

What is Physiotherapy?

In clinical terms, physiotherapy is a treatment that aims to improve and maintain a patient's mobility, functionality, and well-being. In addition to physical rehabilitation, physiotherapy also assists in injury prevention, health, and fitness. You are encouraged to participate in the recovery process by physiotherapists.

What includes physiotherapy treatments?

(a) A physiotherapist focuses both on prevention and rehabilitation. A person can seek treatment for problems that are caused by an injury, disease, or disability. When you first come into the clinic we will do a thorough assessment of your posture, biomechanics, mobility, strength, functional ability and much more to diagnose the cause of the problem. At Re+Active we do not believe in symptomatic treatment of band aid therapy, we strongly believe in movement science and to use all of the conservative management ways for your body to improve and recover.

(b) We offer a variety of electrical modalities like Laser, Shockwave, IFC, Ultrasound, Dry Needling to name a few. Your therapy also includes an exercise program, ergonomic correction, postural correction and much more. All our approaches are evidence based and gains are measured by outcome measure scales and objective findings.

(c) When you come to Re+Active you can be assured that you will get the best and a thorough Physiotherapy experience that can be.

What are the benefits of physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy is a beneficial method used to treat pain due to injury, disability, illness, or pain due to exercise. It’s part of a complete plan for fitness, health, and well-being. The concept of physiotherapy focuses on movement in the body. It allows individuals to gain strength and overcome pain through repeated sessions. Patients of all ages can benefit from physiotherapy because it’s focused on teaching and strengthening the muscles for continued independence and success.

How do you know if you need a physiotherapist?

(a) Get physiotherapy if you suffer from chronic pain or an injury that makes it difficult for you to function normally. In the case of surgery like a hip replacement or a stroke or heart attack, a doctor may recommend physiotherapy.

(b) Physiotherapists focus on both prevention and rehabilitation. Treatment can be for problems caused by injury, disease or disability. Here are some examples:

  • Neck and back pain caused by problems in the muscles and skeleton
  • Problems in the bones, joints, muscles and ligaments, such as arthritis and the after-effects of amputation
  • Lung problems such as asthma
  • Disability as a result of heart problems
  • Pelvic issues, such as bladder and bowel problems related to childbirth
  • Loss of mobility because of trauma to the brain or spine, or due to diseases such as Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis
  • Fatigue, pain, swelling, stiffness and loss of muscle strength, for example during cancer treatment, or palliative care
Who can benefit from physiotherapy?

People tend to think that physical therapy is only for elderly people or those who have suffered serious injuries in accidents. The reality, however, is quite different. A physical therapist may be able to help you if you suffer from mobility issues, have suffered a minor or major injury, suffer from arthritis, have respiratory issues, or have balance issues.

What should I expect during your 1st appt?

(a) During your first appointment, you will undergo part assessment and part treatment. In addition to reviewing your medical history, your physiotherapist will ask you specific questions about your injury. Once they have determined what aggravates the injury or what relieves it, they will move on to range of motion and muscle strength testing. Acupuncture, ultrasound, IMS, or manual therapy may be used to decrease irritation and progress you towards your goals after the assessment.

(b) The physiotherapist learns about your medical history

(c) The physiotherapist assesses and diagnoses your condition

(d) You receive a treatment plan that sets goals for you

(e) You are prescribed a course of exercises and any assistive devices needed

How long will you be in the clinic for each session?

We schedule an initial assessment for 30-45 minutes. An approximately 30 minute treatment time is reserved for each individual.

Can I see Physiotherapy right after your injury?

(a) Well, this depends on the type of injury you’re suffering from and the severity of the trauma. Generally, most injuries, especially when induced by physical sports, require 72 hours of rest followed by several weeks or months of regular physical therapy.

(b) With any injury, it’s best to start sooner rather than later. Seek out a physical therapist who can evaluate your case and provide a personalised treatment plan to restore mobility and strength. As injuries vary, it’s always best to seek professional advice prior to starting any treatment plan. To maximise healing and receive expert advice on recovery, you should consult a physical therapist immediately following your injury.

Do you need Dr's referral to go for Physiotherapy?

Making an appointment with us does not require a referral from a doctor! Physiotherapy expenses may be covered by your extended healthcare provider who may require a Doctor’s referral so please check with your insurance provider if that is a requirement. We offer direct billing to all major insurance providers to make the experience most hassle free for you.

How soon Can I get an appointment?

We try to get you in within 24-48 hours for your assessment to begin treating you right away after an injury. Our team of physiotherapists can provide you with a guide on how long physiotherapy takes to work.

How many treatment sessions will you need?

Answering this question without context is difficult. It depends on many factors, including your injury's severity, other medical issues, and your treatment goals, how many treatments you'll need. The timeframe for your recovery will be determined by your physiotherapist following your initial evaluation.

Why choose physiotherapy over other therapy ?

The best person to know your body is you. Physiotherapy is often recommended before going further. You can ask your physiotherapist how to work on specific muscles or muscle groups. There is a strong complementary relationship between physiotherapy and alternative therapies.

Does your extended health benefit cover physiotherapy?

A maximum amount is usually covered by most extended health care plans and employee health plans for physiotherapy. Make sure your coverage is clear by calling your provider. We offer direct billing to all major insurance providers and can predetermine your coverage for you.

Do we direct bill to private health care providers?

We can direct bill to all major insurance providers. We can predetermine for you prior to your appointment if the cost will be covered. However, we do not have an Alberta Health Care contract as the cost stipulated in the contract is very low compared to our service fees. This is because of the quality of service and the wide variety of interventions we provide, we need to align our costs accordingly. We are authorised providers for WCB and MVA injuries as well. Call us today if you have any more questions.

Does AHS card cover physiotherapy at our clinic?

A number of significant changes have been made to Alberta Health Care as of March 1, 2022. Alberta Healthcare will only cover physiotherapy for patients who have undergone hip and knee replacements, fractures, and orthopedic surgeries starting on March 1, 2022. There is no coverage for physiotherapy for sprains, strains, tendinitis, bursitis, etc. by Alberta Health.