Frequently Asked Questions
1. What kind of conditions do you treat?
The following is just a few examples of conditions we treat:
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Orthopaedic problems such as: low and neck pain, sports injuries, frozen shoulder, rotator cuff tendonopathy, tennis elbow (lateral epicondalgia), arthritic conditions, bursitis, TMJ dysfunction, plantar fasciitis
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Peri natal conditions such as: sacroiliac joint dysfunction, pubic symphysis dysfunction, specialized peri natal exercise prescription
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Neurological conditions such as: sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, Bell's Palsy
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Post surgical rehabiliation from total knee/hip replacements and other orthopaedic surgeries
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Chronic conditions that affect your physical function such as: osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, fibromyalgia, headaches
2. Where are you located?
We have just moved in July 2008 to our new location. We are still very conveniently located only 2 blocks north of our old location on East Columbia Street. We are also 2 blocks north of the Royal Columbian Hospital. We are in a brand new building beside the Starbucks at 413 East Columbia. There is free 2 hour parking on Ward and Sherbrook streets or there is metered parking on East Columbia. We are 3 blocks from the Sapperton skytrain station and buses stop less than a block from our office on East Columbia.
3. What are your hours of operation?
We take patients from Monday to Saturday.
Our schedule is as follows:
Monday to Thursday 8 am to 6:45 pm
Fridays 8 am to 4:00 pm
Saturdays 9 am to 2:00 pm
* Please note that these are our usual hours but they are subject to change temporarly if we have a physiotherapist away for any reason.
4. Does MSP cover my physiotherapy treatments?
MSP only partially covers physiotherapy treatments and only for those who receive premium assistance. If you are unsure, you can call our office with your Care Card number and we can find out for you.
5. Does my extended health insurance cover my physiotherapy treatments?
Most extended insurance plans cover about 80% of your physiotherapy treatments but it depends on the insurance company and plan. To be sure, you have to contact your insurance company to find out how much of the treatments they cover. In all cases, unless you are covered by ICBC or WCB, you have to pay for your treatments and then get reimbursed by your insurance company.
6. What are your rates?
Please call us to find out our current rates.
7. What do I bring to my first appointment?
If you are coming in due to a motor vehicle accident or work injury, please bring all the information you have been given by your insurance company (i.e. claim number, adjuster's name and phone number), and your doctor's referral for physiotherapy services.
If you have had any diagnostic tests such as an X-ray or MRI and have a copy of the report, please bring it in so we can attach it to your chart. Your physiotherapist may find this information useful for your treatment.
Please be prepared to disrobe appropriately depending on the area of injury. We have gowns and a few pairs of shorts available to lend to you but you may feel more comfortable if you bring your own shorts and/or tank tops.
8. How long are the appointments?
Appointments are approximately 30-45 minutes long, depending on the condition/injury you are receiving treatment for.
9. What can I expect from a physiotherapy session?
The initial assessment includes questions regarding the medical history of the condition/injury you are seeking treatment for. You will receive a thorough physical examination and your therapist will explain to you his/her assessment findings and treatment plan. He/she will answer any questions you may have. You will receive a preliminary treatment.
Subsequent follow-up sessions will focus on providing treatment, which can include the use of modalities such as ultrasound, laser, and electric current as well as manual therapy. You will be provided with appropriate exercises specific to your injury/condition. Your therapist will also provide education regarding your injury/condition and answer any questions you may have.
If necessary, we will liase with other professionals involved with your care, such as your family doctor, case managers (in the case of ICBC or WCB injuries), and medical specialists. This provides continuity in your care.