What is Physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy began as a profession at the turn of the century. It has always been a University based programme with the first degree in Canada granted from the University of Toronto. Physiotherapists today graduate with a Bachelors in Science from a recognized University. They are well schooled over a 3 to 4 year period in anatomy, physiology, and pathology as well as specialty courses on therapy.

What can Physiotherapy help?

Physiotherapy can help a wide variety of problems that affect an individuals ability to be mobile.

Physiotherapists are trained in the treatment of:

• Musculoskeletal problems - i.e. sprains, fractures, joint replacements
• Neurological problems - i.e. stroke, head injury, cerebral palsy
• Cardiorespiratory problems - i.e. heart disease, asthma, pneumonia

The therapists at The Orthopaedic Therapy Clinic address primarily musculoskeletal problems. These are generally injuries or imbalances of the soft tissues or joints of the body. We deal with injuries affecting joint function, posture, and normal muscle balance ranging from the very acute to chronic. We generally treat clients from the age of 16 on up to geriatric.

What does a Physiotherapy Appointment involve?

An appointment with a physiotherapist will involve taking a relevant clinical history from the patient. The injured area is then assessed as well as other areas that may be contributing to the problem. The client is then informed of the results of the assessment and a suitable treatment programme is devised. Treatment programmes are individualized and will evolve based on the clients needs and the stage of recovery. Treatment may encompass modalities, i.e. ultrasound, interferential current, "hands on" treatment, specific exercises, or simply advice on how to manage the problem.

Is treatment covered under OHIP?

Physiotherapy at The Orthopaedic Therapy Clinic is not covered under OHIP. In 1964 the Ministry of Health stopped issuing licenses for physiotherapy clinics to be able to bill OHIP. There have been no new licenses issued since that time.

However, many people have coverage through their extended health care benefits package, through work. The coverage will be listed as registered physiotherapy. There also may be coverage under your automobile insurance policy if the injury is due to a car accident.

Do I need a doctor's referral?

No, you do not need a doctor's referral to access a physiotherapist in private practice. Hospital based physiotherapists and OHIP funded clinics still require a referral. Some extended health benefit insurance plans require a physicians referral for you to be able to access your benefits. Always check your benefits policy prior to accessing these services.

What is Massage Therapy

Massage is the manipulation of the soft tissues to gain a therapeutic response. Soft tissues include muscles, skin and connective tissue, tendons, ligaments and membranes.

Massage therapy provides an alternative health option to help alleviate the soft tissue discomfort associated with every day and occupational stresses, muscular over-use and many chronic pain syndromes. It can also greatly reduce the development of painful muscular patterning, if employed early enough after accidents involving trauma or injury. Massage can accelerate the rate of recovery and is a powerful adjunct in the treatment of both long standing and acute injuries.

Swedish massage is currently the most common form of therapy practiced.

What training is required to become a Registered Massage Therapist?

To become a registered massage therapist requires enrollment in a government approved massage therapy school, i. e. the Sutherland Chan Massage School in Toronto. Following enrollment, you must complete 2,200 hours of anatomical, physiological and clinical studies, including intensive practical instruction. After graduating, you must take a provincial examination and once passed, you become licenced and registered under the Regulated Health Professions Act.

Is massage covered under OHIP?

No, but many private insurance companies provide full or partial coverage under extended health care plans.

What do I wear during a massage?

Generally you remove all clothing except undergarments. The therapist ensures your privacy, that you are properly draped, and only the portion of your body that is being massaged is exposed.