FAQs
What is physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy is a medical, hands-on approach to relieving pain and restoring function. Physiotherapists are medical experts in musculoskeletal and neurological conditions and work closely with physicians. Our physiotherapists evaluate your movement patterns, identify the cause of your pain, and work to eliminate it.
While every patient’s condition and pain is unique, our physiotherapists will use a variety of gentle hands-on techniques, exercises, and equipment to relieve pain quickly and restore your function to optimum levels. The overall goal is to restore pain-free mobility and function and to prevent the injury or pain from recurring.
How do I know if physiotherapy will help me?
Physiotherapy is a form of treatment that can help people recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and improve their physical function and mobility. It is difficult to say for sure whether physiotherapy will help you without knowing your specific condition and medical history, but there are some general indicators that suggest physiotherapy may be beneficial:
- You have pain or discomfort: If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your muscles, joints, or bones, physiotherapy may help to alleviate your symptoms and improve your mobility.
- You have difficulty moving: If you are having trouble moving a particular part of your body or performing daily activities such as walking, bending, or reaching, physiotherapy can help to improve your mobility and function.
- You have had an injury: If you have suffered an injury such as a sprain, strain, or fracture, physiotherapy can help to speed up your recovery and prevent long-term complications.
- You have a chronic condition: If you have a chronic condition such as arthritis, chronic pain, or Parkinson's disease, physiotherapy can help to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
- You have had surgery: If you have had surgery, physiotherapy can help to speed up your recovery, improve your range of motion, and prevent complications such as blood clots or muscle weakness.
If you are unsure whether physiotherapy is right for you, consult with our qualified physiotherapists who can assess your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for you.
Can I go to any physiotherapist I choose?
As a patient you have the right to receive physiotherapy at any place you choose. At Equilibrium, you will receive the highest quality care while achieving the results you need. We pride ourselves on providing a positive, encouraging environment with well-trained, friendly staff. We are confident in our ability to help you reach your goals and live a pain-free life.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Our scheduling is easy and we offer convenient locations and appointment times for you. We have morning and evening appointments available to meet the demands of your busy schedule. Call us today or book your appointment online.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
To bring on your first visit:
- A prescription (if needed) for physiotherapy from your referring physician.
- Insurance information and id (we will make a copy of your card).
- Fill out your online intake form prior to your appointment.
- In case of an automobile accident, also bring any case manager or insurance adjuster contact names, phone numbers, date of accident and claim number.
- Please arrive 15 minutes early to complete any remaining paperwork, so you can maximize your time in your evaluation.
- Please wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your problem areas.
Will it hurt?
Physiotherapy is not meant to hurt, but to relieve pain. However, as you restore your mobility, pain levels, at times can fluctuate. You might experience some temporary soreness from using muscles that are weakened or recovering. This is a normal response to therapy treatment. Good communication with your therapist will help minimize any discomfort. We want you on your way to quick pain relief and back to normal activities.
Does insurance cover my treatment?
Yes, in most cases it does. For more information, visit our insurance direct billing page and please do not hesitate to contact our office with questions.
What if I don’t have insurance?
We take several payment methods such as debit, mastercard, visa, and cash.
What type of payment do you accept?
We accept cash, debit card, and credit card. It is our policy that payment is made at the time of service. Your insurance benefits will be determined on your first visit, and you will be informed of what, if any, payment is necessary on that date.
What do I wear?
Dress comfortably with clothes that allow easy access for the therapist to examine your problem areas. For treatments, loose fitting clothes that are comfortable for gentle exercises and supportive sneakers are often good choices to wear.
How long will my physiotherapy sessions last?
Depending on which physiotherapist you see, there are several initial assessment lengths and options. Most sessions will last 30-45 minutes, or for people with severe injuries or multiple areas of treatment, there is an hour long extended treatment option. These lengths of session can be discussed with one of our patient experience coordinators, or the options are explained on our online booking calendar. If you have questions, we will ask our physiotherapist what length of time might be best for your particular case. Each session after that may be 30-45 minutes. The amount of time will be based on your specific needs, and your therapist will discuss this with you.
How many sessions will I have?
Each patient’s diagnosis is different, so together with your referring physician, your physiotherapist will develop a plan of care that is right for you. Your plan of care and number of visits will be determined during your first visit and explained to you by your physiotherapist.
What types of education/training do your therapists have?
Physiotherapists have years of university level training in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology (study of joint movement), neurology, and many of the other medical sciences. Our physiotherapists have graduated from accredited physiotherapy programs and are provincially licensed. Depending on the university, the physiotherapy program is either a masters or doctorate level degree. Rest assured, your therapist is well trained to evaluate and treat your condition.
Do you offer programs for me once I’m better?
Yes, once you have completed your therapy sessions, your therapist will review your continuing home program. We can determine what equipment may be beneficial, and what exercises would be helpful in your continued recovery.
What is Chiropractic?
A chiropractor is a type of healthcare professional who specializes in the diagnosis,
treatment, and prevention of musculoskeletal and nervous system disorders,
particularly those related to the spine and joints. They use manual therapy techniques
such as spinal adjustments and manipulations to help relieve pain, improve function,
and enhance overall well-being.
Chiropractors also provide patients with advice on lifestyle changes, such as exercise,
diet, and stress management, that can help prevent future injury and promote long-term
health. In addition, they may use other complementary therapies, such as massage,
acupuncture, and nutritional counseling, to support the healing process and enhance
patient outcomes.
Overall, chiropractors aim to help patients achieve optimal health and wellness through
natural, non-invasive, and drug-free methods, and they play a key role in the
rehabilitation of patients with a wide range of conditions, including back pain, neck pain,
headaches, sports injuries, and repetitive strain injuries.
What should I expect during my first massage therapy visit?
Before you arrive for your first massage therapy visit, you’ll be sent a case history form that can be filled out online. It's important to fill this form out prior to your arrival so that your RMT will be able to read it and know a little bit about your case before you meet for a more in depth chat about what your main issue is. Once you discuss the reason for your visit, your massage therapist will recap the areas of the body that will be treated and go over and sign a consent form for your treatment. The consent form
outlines the areas that will be treated and your RMT will be sure that you understand the expectations of the treatment session.
Your RMT will explain how much to disrobe, where to put your things and how to get onto the table. You will be covered at all times, except for the area that is being massaged, and you’ll be lying on a cozy heated table.
During the first session, there will be time devoted to case history taking and assessment, and the remainder of the visit will be for the massage treatment. If you want to be sure that you’ll get 60 minutes of “hands on” time, book a 75 minute session for your initial treatment. On your second and subsequent sessions, the check in time will be less time (unless you have a challenging and painful condition) and you’ll have most of the time devoted to your massage “hands on” time. Your therapist will check in
with you several times throughout your massage session. They will be checking to see if their pressure is too light, too deep or just right. It's important that you’re honest with your RMT so that you get the type and pressure in your massage that you are hoping for. Communication is key so that your therapist can get used to what works for you. Don’t worry, you won’t hurt your therapist's feelings, their goal is to give you the treatment that you want and need.
After your session, your massage therapist will give you a plan letting you know the ideal frequency of visits to get you feeling better. Depending on your issue, they may suggest complementary treatments with one of our other disciplines since we have physiotherapists, chiropractors and acupuncturists working in our multidisciplinary clinic.
How will I feel after the massage therapy treatment?
Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity. After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days.
How long will my massage treatment last?
We offer massage therapy sessions of many lengths; from 30 minutes to 2 hours. Most people have a session that is 60 minutes in length. The average full-body massage treatment lasts approximately one hour. A half hour appointment allows time for a partial massage session, such as neck and shoulders, back or legs and feet. Many people prefer a 60 minute or longer session for optimal relaxation.Always allow relaxation time prior to and after the session.
Will the massage lubricant used make me break-out?
At Equilibrium, we use high quality, natural massage therapy cream. If you have sensitivity to specific ingredients, please bring it to the massage therapist's attention so that they can choose what will work
best for you.
How will my massage feel?
It usually depends on the techniques used. Many massage therapists use a form of Swedish massage, which is often a baseline for practitioners. In a general Swedish Massage, your session may start with broad, flowing strokes (effleurage) that will help calm your nervous system and relax exterior muscle tension. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to loosen deeper layers and relieve areas of muscular tension. At Equilibrium, high quality cream or lotion is used as a lubricant (not oil)to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin.
Do not hesitate to ask questions or mention if you feel any discomfort so that the massage therapist can use another approach or technique.
What Do I do during my massage therapy treatment?
Make yourself comfortable. If your therapist wants to adjust your position, she or he will either move you or will ask you to move what is needed. Otherwise, change your position any time to make yourself more comfortable. Many People close their eyes and relax completely during sessions; others prefer to talk. It's up to you. It is your massage, and whatever feels natural to you is the best way to relax. Do not hesitate to ask questions at any time.
What Do I wear during the massage?
For a Full Body Massage, people either undress completely or choose to wear underwear. It's important to undress to your own comfort level, but keep in mind that more clothes may inhibit the effectiveness of the massage. Your Massage therapist will give you privacy to undress, and you will be covered with a sheet and blanket at all times except the area that is being worked on.
What Is Acupuncture, & How Does It
Work?
Acupuncture is a form of alternative medicine that originated in China over 2,500 years ago. It involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body known as acupuncture points. The needles are left in place for anywhere from a few minutes to up to an hour.
The theory behind acupuncture is based on the concept of Qi (pronounced "chee"), which is the vital energy that flows through the body along pathways called meridians. According to traditional Chinese medicine, illness and pain are caused by disruptions or imbalances in the flow of Qi. By stimulating the appropriate acupuncture points along the meridians, the practitioner is believed to be able to restore balance to the flow of Qi, thus promoting healing and relieving pain.
Modern scientific research has found that acupuncture can stimulate the release of endorphins and other neurotransmitters, which can reduce pain and promote a sense of well-being. It may also help to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow to affected areas of the body.
Acupuncture is commonly used to treat a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, headaches, arthritis, digestive disorders, anxiety, depression, and infertility.
Is chiropractic treatment safe?
Chiropractic therapy is recognized as a safe, non-invasive method of treating neuromuscular and musculoskeletal disorders.
No health treatment is without danger. Chiropractic therapy is no exception. There have been reported (isolated) incidents that reflect the practitioner, not the profession. As with all types of manual therapy performed by healthcare and medical practitioners, patients may experience some pain, stiffness, or discomfort after a session. Any concerns you may have should be expressed and resolved to your satisfaction.
Although some people experience minor discomfort or soreness following spinal manipulation, these symptoms typically subside within 24 hours. The popularity of chiropractic care reflects positive outcomes, where most patients leave their chiropractor's clinic feeling better!
Is chiropractic treatment ongoing?
The typical course of treatment is to resolve a particular injury or condition. You will likely have to visit your chiropractor's office multiple times before resolving your issue. It is a common practice, although not mandatory, to continue maintenance care that is decided by the individual's specific situation and your chiropractor's clinical judgment.
Chiropractic care is different from a medical doctor's course of treatment, which typically involves a predetermined plan that is carried out at home (i.e.,taking a course of antibiotics once a day for a couple of weeks).
A chiropractor may provide therapeutic, preventive, or maintenance care within a certain number of visits over a predetermined period of time. If you have questions about how long your treatment will last, do not hesitate to ask your chiropractor for their estimate.
Why do joints pop during chiropractic adjustments?
When you adjust (aka manipulate) a joint, a change of pressure within your joints causes gas bubbles to pop, this release of pressure is the noise you hear when “cracking” your back.
There is usually little to no discomfort involved in this process.
What conditions do chiropractors treat?
Chiropractors are healthcare professionals who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions related to the musculoskeletal system. They use non-surgical, drug-free techniques to help patients manage pain, improve mobility, and restore function.
Chiropractors primarily focus on conditions that affect the spine, but they may also treat conditions affecting other joints and muscles. Some of the most common conditions that chiropractors can help with include:
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Headaches and migraines
- Sciatica
- Herniated discs
- Scoliosis
- Arthritis
- Whiplash
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Sports injuries
- Work-related injuries
- Pregnancy-related pain and discomfort
- Postural problems
It's worth noting that chiropractors do not treat all types of conditions, and they may refer patients to other healthcare professionals if they believe that a different type of treatment is more appropriate.
What Should I Expect With Acupuncture
Therapy?
Here's what you can expect when you go for an acupuncture therapy session:
- Consultation: The first step is usually a consultation with the acupuncturist. The acupuncturist will ask about your medical history, lifestyle, and any current symptoms or concerns.
- Treatment plan: Based on the consultation, the acupuncturist will develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This may involve a series of sessions or ongoing treatment.
- Preparation: You will be asked to lie down on a treatment table and remove any clothing that may interfere with the treatment. Depending on the areas of the body being treated, the acupuncturist may ask you to lie on your back, front, or side.
- Needle insertion: The acupuncturist will insert thin, sterile needles into specific points on your body. You may feel a slight prick or tingling sensation when the needles are inserted, but they should not be painful.
- Relaxation: You will then be left to relax for about 20-30 minutes while the needles do their work. You may feel a sensation of warmth or heaviness in the areas where the needles have been inserted.
- Needle removal: At the end of the session, the acupuncturist will remove the needles. You may feel a slight pinch or nothing at all.
Can Needles Actually Relieve Pain?
If you’ve never heard of acupuncture therapy, the thought of someone inserting needles into your skin might sound pretty terrifying! The truth is though, this kind of therapy isn’t meant to cause pain -- it’s meant to relieve it.
If you’re suffering from chronic pain, acupuncture therapy could be a great solution to your problem. Acupuncture has been proven to stimulate the endorphin system which can result in reduced pain and inflammation.