ESSENTIAL INFORMATION FOR PHYSICAL THERAPY FIRST TIMERS

Welcome back, readers! In this month’s article we will be chatting about information that you might find useful in preparing for (or considering) a visit to a physiotherapist for the first time.

First things first… what is a physical therapist?

You may have heard the titles “Physiotherapist”, “Physio”, “PT”, or “Physical Therapist”. These names are synonymous and are protected titles. For a professional to identify themselves by the above, they must have completed all of the necessary schooling, pass their licensing examinations, and be registered in the province where they practice. Protected titles are to ensure that you are receiving services from a qualified and authorized professional. The Health Professions Act legally protects these titles to maintain standards of practice and protect your safety.

Currently in Canada, physical therapy is a masters degree. Meaning, that your physical therapist has completed a 4 year undergraduate degree prior to completing ~2.5 years of a physiotherapy masters program. So, your physiotherapist has studied for ~7 years! Once done the schooling, they take the required licensing examinations, and (when passed) complete the final steps to become fully registered.

Now that you’ve got the run down on how one becomes and is able to call themselves a physiotherapist, you probably want to know what they can help with and do?

The scope of physiotherapy is quite broad in the sense that there are many areas where physiotherapists work (i.e., private clinics, hospitals, home care…) and lots of special interests (i.e., pelvic health, sport, vestibular, aging, respiratory, chronic pain…).

In a general sense, physiotherapists assist with physical concerns that you may have – whether that is an injury, illness, chronic condition, or prevention of the same. Your goals are at the centre of physiotherapy care. Whether that is to be able to continue to play with your grandkids, return to your sport after an injury, or manage your chronic pain (for example). My goal (very simply) is to help you reach your functional goals and equip you with self management strategies! Treatments in physiotherapy sessions may include hands on techniques (e.g., joint mobilization, soft tissue work/ massage), modalities (e.g., shockwave, dry needling/ IMS, TENS), comprehensive education, and therapeutic exercise (i.e., exercises designed and prescribed specifically for you).

Just like any professional, physiotherapists have differing treatment styles, post graduate training, and special interests. So, not all physiotherapists complete the same treatments, give the same education, or prescribe the same exercises. Which, I think, is quite unique and beautiful about this profession!

So, now you may be considering booking an appointment with your local physiotherapist and may be wondering what to expect at an initial appointment?

First sessions at our clinic are 1 hour long (and follow ups are 30 -45 mins in length). During the initial appointment, you can expect your physiotherapist to take a thorough history. This will include diving into specifics relating to your main concern, relevant health history, your lifestyle (i.e., activity, work, hobbies), and of course … YOUR GOALS! Next, the physiotherapist will complete a physical assessment which will include guiding you through some movements and physical testing specific to your concern. During the process, your physio will keep you informed and gain ongoing consent. Then, your physiotherapist will discuss the findings with you and go over options for the next steps to work on your goals. You may also receive hands-on treatment and go over exercises to work on outside of the session! Treatment planning is an important part of the first session. This is so that you have an idea of how long you may need to see a physiotherapist for and what you can expect in follow up sessions.

I hope this information was helpful if you were wondering what this physiotherapy thing is all about.

If you think that physiotherapy would be a good fit in your life, I would encourage you to reach out to your local clinic! To see a physiotherapist you DO NOT need a referral from a doctor and the service is eligible to claim under most extended health care plans. If you live in the Bragg Creek area, we would be happy to be a part of your journey!

Bre Maughan
Registered Physiotherapist (MScPT, BScKin)
Bragg Creek Physiotherapy
www.braggcreekphysio.com