Physiotherapy is a regulated rehabilitation profession. Physiotherapists work towards returning mobility and function of the injured patient. We also strongly promote a proactive approach for injury and disease prevention. Physiotherapists often deal with patients experiencing pain or functional limitations whether it is in your back or neck, or in any other joint such as the hips, knees, wrists, shoulders or ankles.
Physiotherapists can treat many different areas such as: orthopedics, musculoskeletal, cardiorespiratory, neurology, vestibular dysfunction, womens health/pelvic floor and pediatrics. Physiotherapy treatment can include, but is not limited to: education, manual therapy (hands on therapy), exercise programs, acupuncture, dry needling, modalities such as heat, ice, shockwave, TENS, STIM, ultrasound, and return to work programs.
Physiotherapists address the body as a whole to work towards improving strength, balance, coordination, neural tension, muscle tension, joint mobility, and overall cardiorespiratory function.
Treatments may include
Dry Needling: Dry needling uses the same type of needle as an acupuncture needle, however the technique is different. Dry needling places the needle in a taught band, termed a trigger point, in the muscle. The goal of dry needling is to decrease pain and promote healing by increasing blood flow and releasing tension to improve the function of the muscle.
Anatomical Acupuncture: Acupuncture works by placing needles in specific anatomical spots in the body (acupuncture points) to help to reset your Qi (pronounced "chee"). Qi is a balanced flow of energy throughout your system. Often time, this balance is disrupted due to injuries or an illness. The needle stimulates the release of endorphins, which are pain relieving hormones naturally produced in the body. This will encourage healing and can help with pain relief. Our focus with anatomical acupuncture is treating the musculoskeletal system as it is performed by a physical therapist.
Vestibular Rehabilitation: Vertigo and dizziness are common problems and can occur for a variety of different reasons. Some causes of vertigo or dizziness are treatable with physical therapy. Our training has taught us to assess the vestibular system as well as the cervical spine (neck) and surrounding areas to determine the primary cause for your limitations.
Manual Therapy: Manual therapy is hands on techniques used by physiotherapists. This commonly includes joint mobilizations (a graded method of moving a joint) or soft tissue release to restore range of motion and function.
Exercise Therapy: Physiotherapy has a strong emphasis on restoring muscle imbalances to improve strength, coordination and balance. A plan will be specifically designed for you based on your needs.
Womens Pelvic Floor Therapy: Pelvic floor physiotherapy primarily focuses on the areas of the abdomen, low back, pelvis and hips. It involves a comprehensive assessment of both the internal (if warranted) and external musculature, joints, ligaments and connective tissue. This information is used to treat issues of pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, prolapse, pregnancy and postpartum recovery.