In this blog post, we’ll explore how physiotherapy can be the right treatment option for you, shedding light on what happens during an initial physiotherapy appointment and why you should consider it.
So, let’s get started!
Book your appointment!
Like any journey, the first step is booking an initial assessment. At our clinic you can book your appointment several different ways. You can:
1. Give us a telephone call. One of our reception team would be happy to assist you in setting up an appointment. This may also give you the opportunity to address any questions you may have about directions to location, accessibility, insurance, or what to bring.
2. Send us an email to admin.winkler@pvphysio.com One of our reception team will be in contact in this format during office hours.
3. Visit our website. Our "Get In Touch" button has a convenient fillable form which will allow our reception team to contact you directly.
What to Expect During First Appointment
Upon arriving to our clinic it will be requested to complete a patient information form. If you have eligible private insurance, we will take a copy of your card to set up your direct billing account. What insurance is eligible for direct billing? Take a look at our billing page. If you have a claim (WCB, MPI) this will also be where you can input your claim number.
Generating a History
After completion of the necessary forms, your physiotherapist will take you to their treatment area. During this engagement, your physiotherapist will review your medical history and address your reason for booking your appointment. This might include questions addressing timeline (start after one event or slowly over time), location (where in the body), or type of symptoms (burning, aching, shooting). It will likely also include a discussion with what may make it better or what may make it worse.
Physiotherapy Assessment
After gathering your history, the physiotherapist will begin to assess the specified location. This may involve you performing specific movements, being guided through specific ranges, assessing different strengths, and / or applying stress in different directions.
The physiotherapist may use more or less these assessments as they need, but in any case will thoroughly investigate what may be affecting you.
Creating Your Treatment Plan
Now it’s time to discuss your treatment plan. This plan will include the frequency of sessions, milestones and goals to reach in your recovery and having your questions and concerns addressed.
Hands-On Treatment
Physiotherapy techniques such as manual therapy, electrical thermal agents (TENS, IFC, Ultrasound, Heat, Ice) or needling may be introduced, explained, and performed with your comfort in mind. Your well-being is the top priority!
Education and Empowerment
Following the assessment the physiotherapist will share their working clinical impression. This would include what they expect is causing you trouble and explain how they arrived at their conclusion. The physiotherapist will explain what the condition is, as well as what physiotherapy can do to help and what you can do to help yourself. You are always encouraged to ask questions to fully understand your situation.
Home Based Programming
A critical part of physiotherapy is the home based program. This will include an individualized plan laid out by the physiotherapist. This may include self management strategies, stretching, mobility, or strengthening (among other things)!
Closing the Appointment
As your session concludes, your physiotherapist will summarize what was reviewed. You and your physiotherapist will discuss progress tracking, and schedule follow-up appointment (s). Administrative details will be sorted, and you’ll leave with reassurance and motivation to continue your journey.
So, are you ready to take the first step? Discover the value of physiotherapy and experience the difference for yourself.
Take the first step and book an appointment today!