YOUR FIRST VISIT
On your first visit to Elite Sports Injury, expect a warm welcome and a thorough diagnostic session with our professionals, who will craft a recovery plan tailored specifically to your needs.
You are required to complete the Patient Intake Form. You can download it by clicking the button below.
WHAT HURTS?
Elite Sports Injury offers many different ways to treat pain, ailments, and injuries.
Simply click on the body part experiencing discomfort to reveal a curated list of treatments and therapies available, offering a personalized approach to your recovery journey.
If you don’t find exactly what you’re looking for, don’t worry—we’re here to help. Book an appointment with us now to explore more personalized solutions for your recovery
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is physiotherapy? How can it help me?
Physiotherapy is a primary healthcare profession that aims to optimize an individual’s physical function, mobility, and overall well-being, making sure your body moves and functions at its best.
Physiotherapists assess, diagnose, and treat a variety of conditions affecting your muscles, nerves, and heart and lungs, using physical methods. They use techniques like exercises, hands-on therapy, electrotherapy, and education to help you regain movement, ease pain, prevent disability, and boost your health. If after an injury or surgery, they’ll design a personalized treatment plan to help you get back your strength and mobility.
Physiotherapy isn’t just about fixing problems; it’s also about preventing them. By teaching you better movement and stability, they can help you avoid injuries in the future. And here’s the best part: Physiotherapists don’t just treat you; they also educate you about your condition and how to manage it on your own. So, whether you’re recovering from an injury, dealing with a long-term issue, or just want to be your healthiest self, physiotherapy can give you the tools and support you need to reach your
goals and live your best life.
Do I need a referral from my doctor to see a physiotherapist?
Physiotherapy is a primary healthcare profession that does not require a referral from a physician or other healthcare provider. This streamlined process enables prompt access to physiotherapy services for addressing musculoskeletal injuries, rehabilitation needs, pain management, and other health concerns. However, if you have been to see your doctor, it can be beneficial to bring along any relevant medical documentation, such as diagnoses or imaging results, to your initial assessment. This information offers valuable context for the physiotherapist and helps tailor your treatment plan accordingly. Moreover, physiotherapists often collaborate with other healthcare professionals, ensuring comprehensive care through a multidisciplinary approach. Communication between physiotherapists and doctors facilitates the sharing of assessment findings, treatment recommendations, and progress updates, promoting effective coordination of care for your well-being.
What can I expect during my physiotherapy initial assessment appointment?
When you come to Elite Sports Injury for a physiotherapy assessment, plan for your appointment to be typically one hour. Here’s what you can expect to happen during your first visit:
1.Initial assessment: We’ll start by getting a good understanding about you. That means going over a thorough history about your injury followed by an in-depth assessment of your posture, movement patterns, joint integrity, strength, flexibility and function.
2.Setting goals: Once we’ve got a clear picture of where you’re at, we’ll work together to set some goals for your treatment. These goals will be realistic and tailored to what you want to achieve, and they’ll guide us as we go along to make sure we’re making progress.
3.Planning your treatment: Based on your assessment and goals, we’ll put together a personalized treatment plan just for you. This might include things like specific exercises, hands-on therapy techniques, education, and strategies for managing your symptoms at home.
4.Exercise therapy: Exercise-based therapy is a big part of what we do in physiotherapy at Elite Sports Injury. We’ll show you exercises aimed at improving your strength, flexibility, coordination, and balance. We’ll do them together during the session and give you some to do at home too.
5.Hands-on therapy: We may use manual therapy techniques to work on your soft tissues and joints. This can help with mobility, pain relief, and getting things moving better overall.
6.Modalities: Depending on your needs, we might use ultrasound, electrical stimulation, heat or cold therapy, or hydrotherapy to help with your treatment goals.
7.Education and self-management: We’ll make sure you have a good understanding of your condition, how to move safely, how you can start to manage your symptoms, and a guideline as to how many visits your treatment may take.
8.Keeping track of progress: As we go along, we’ll keep an eye on how you’re doing and make any adjustments needed to your treatment plan. This way, we can make sure you’re getting the best possible results.
Overall, a physiotherapy session is all about working together to address your needs, get you feeling better, and improve your overall well-being. With the right combination of assessments, treatments, and ongoing support, we’ll help you reach your goals and get back to doing the things you love.
How many Physiotherapy appointments will I need?
The frequency of your visits to a physiotherapist depends on various factors, including the nature of your condition, your treatment goals, and your progress. Typically, in the initial stages of treatment, you may need to see your physiotherapist more frequently, such as once or twice a week, to address acute issues and establish a treatment plan. As you progress and your condition improves, the frequency of your visits may decrease. However, it’s essential to follow your physiotherapist’s recommendations regarding the frequency of visits to ensure you’re receiving optimal care and making steady progress towards your goals. Your physiotherapist will adjust your treatment plan as needed based on your response to therapy and any changes in your condition. So, it’s best to communicate openly with your physiotherapist and follow their guidance regarding the frequency of your appointments to maximize the effectiveness of your treatment.
What do I bring to my appointment?
- Comfortable clothing: Wear or bring comfortable clothing that allows the physiotherapist easy access to the area of injury or discomfort. Depending on the nature of your condition, you may be asked to wear a t-shirt, shorts, or loose-fitting clothing that allows for movement and assessment of the affected area.
- Running shoes (if applicable): If your assessment or treatment plan involves gait analysis, walking or running exercises, or activities that require footwear, bring a pair of comfortable running shoes or athletic shoes. This ensures that you can participate fully in any functional assessments or exercises prescribed by the physiotherapist.
How long will it take to see results from my physiotherapy appointments?
The time it takes to see results from physiotherapy varies depending on several factors, including the nature and severity of the condition, the individual’s overall health and fitness level, adherence to the treatment plan, and consistency with home exercises and self-care measures. While it’s difficult to provide a specific timeframe for when improvements will occur, here are some general considerations:
1.Short-term improvements: Some patients may experience immediate or short-term improvements in symptoms after just a few physiotherapy sessions. These early results may include reduced pain, improved mobility, increased strength, or better posture. Short-term improvements can be encouraging and serve as motivation to continue with the treatment plan.
2.Gradual progress: In many cases, significant improvements in symptoms or function occur gradually over time with consistent physiotherapy intervention. Patients may notice incremental changes in their condition, such as increased range of motion, decreased pain intensity, enhanced balance and coordination, or improved performance of daily activities. The pace of progress varies depending on the complexity of the condition and individual factors.
3.Long-term outcomes: Achieving long-term outcomes often requires ongoing commitment to physiotherapy treatment and maintenance of healthy lifestyle habits. While some patients may achieve their treatment goals relatively quickly, others may require more time and effort to reach optimal outcomes. Physiotherapy aims to not only alleviate symptoms but also address underlying factors contributing to the condition, promoting sustained improvements in function and overall well-being.
4.Patient involvement: Active participation and engagement in the physiotherapy process can significantly impact the rate of progress and the effectiveness of treatment. Patients who diligently perform prescribed exercises, follow recommendations for self-care and lifestyle modifications, and maintain open communication with their physiotherapist tend to see better results in a shorter timeframe.
5.Monitoring progress: Physiotherapists regularly monitor the patient’s progress throughout the treatment process and adjust the treatment plan as needed to optimize outcomes. Progress evaluations may include objective measurements, functional assessments, patient-reported outcomes, and ongoing discussions with the patient about their experiences and goals.
It’s essential for patients to maintain realistic expectations about the timeline for seeing results from physiotherapy. While some improvements may occur relatively quickly, others may take more time and persistence. Patients should stay committed to their treatment plan, communicate openly with their physiotherapist, and celebrate each milestone along the journey toward improved health and function.
Will physiotherapy be painful?
Generally speaking, physiotherapy shouldn’t cause you significant pain. Actually, we are aimed at easing any discomfort you might already be feeling, improving how well you move, and just making you feel better overall. But, we want to be upfront with you: there might be times when certain exercises or techniques could cause some mild discomfort or temporary soreness, especially if they’re targeting areas of your body that need a little extra attention because of injury or limited movement.
Here’s what you should know about dealing with any discomfort during physiotherapy:
1.Keep the conversation open: It’s super important to let your physiotherapist know if you’re feeling any pain or discomfort during your sessions. They can adjust what they’re doing, change up exercises, or offer more support to make sure you’re comfortable and safe.
2.Take it step by step: Physiotherapy plans are usually set up to slowly ramp up as you start feeling better. This helps keep discomfort to a minimum and makes sure you can handle the exercises and techniques they’ve got planned for you.
3.Find ways to manage pain: Your physiotherapist might have some tricks up their sleeve to help ease any discomfort you’re feeling during your sessions. That could mean using things like heat or cold therapy, gentle massage, or teaching you relaxation techniques.
4.Get educated: They’re not just there to treat you; they want to make sure you understand what’s happening and how you can help yourself feel better too. So, expect them to give you tips on things like breathing right, ways to relax, and how to take care of yourself between sessions.
5.Listen to your body: Your physiotherapist is trained to push you just enough without causing you too much pain. But it’s important for you to speak up if something doesn’t feel right. They want to help you get better, not make things worse.
Remember, while it’s totally normal to feel a little discomfort here and there during physiotherapy, you shouldn’t have to put up with anything that’s really painful. So, don’t hesitate to speak up and let your physiotherapist know how you’re feeling. After all, the whole point of physiotherapy is to help you move better, feel better, and live better, all while keeping discomfort to a minimum.
Can physiotherapy prevent future injuries?
Yes, physiotherapy can play a crucial role in preventing future injuries and managing chronic conditions effectively through various preventive measures and strategies. Here are some ways in which physiotherapy can help prevent future injuries:
1.Assessment of risk factors: Physiotherapists conduct comprehensive assessments to identify individual risk factors for injury, such as poor posture, muscle imbalances, joint instability, or movement impairments. By addressing these risk factors early on, physiotherapy can help reduce the likelihood of future injuries.
2.Education and training: Physiotherapists educate patients about proper body mechanics, ergonomics, and movement patterns to minimize the risk of injury during daily activities, sports, or work-related tasks. Patients learn techniques for lifting, bending, reaching, and performing physical tasks safely to prevent strain or overuse injuries.
3.Strength and conditioning programs: Physiotherapists design customized strength and conditioning programs tailored to the individual’s needs and goals. These programs focus on improving muscle strength, flexibility, endurance, and balance, which are essential for preventing injuries and enhancing performance in sports, recreational activities, and daily life.
4.Flexibility and mobility exercises: Flexibility and mobility exercises prescribed by physiotherapists help improve joint range of motion, reduce muscle stiffness, and enhance overall flexibility. Maintaining adequate flexibility and mobility is crucial for preventing musculoskeletal injuries, particularly in activities that involve repetitive movements or sudden changes in direction.
5.Balance and proprioception training: Balance and proprioception training exercises help improve neuromuscular control and coordination, reducing the risk of falls and injuries, especially in older adults or individuals with neurological conditions. By enhancing proprioceptive awareness and stability, physiotherapy can prevent ankle sprains, knee injuries, and other falls-related injuries.
6.Sport-specific training and injury prevention programs: Physiotherapists work with athletes and sports teams to develop sport-specific training programs and injury prevention strategies. These programs focus on enhancing sports performance, minimizing the risk of acute injuries (such as sprains, strains, or fractures), and addressing underlying biomechanical imbalances or weaknesses that may predispose athletes to injuries.
7.Postural correction and ergonomic interventions: Physiotherapists assess and correct postural imbalances and ergonomic factors contributing to musculoskeletal pain and discomfort, particularly in individuals with desk-based jobs or repetitive work tasks. By optimizing posture and workstation ergonomics, physiotherapy can reduce the risk of developing chronic musculoskeletal conditions such as neck pain, low back pain, or carpal tunnel syndrome.
8.Injury prevention programs for specific populations: Physiotherapists may develop specialized injury prevention programs for specific populations, such as dancers, runners, older adults, or individuals with chronic conditions. These programs incorporate evidence-based strategies to address the unique risk factors and needs of each population, promoting long-term health and well-being.
By incorporating these preventive measures and strategies into their treatment plans, physiotherapists can empower patients to take an active role in preventing future injuries, managing chronic conditions effectively, and optimizing their overall health and quality of life. Regular follow-up appointments and ongoing guidance from physiotherapists help ensure that patients remain proactive in maintaining their physical well-being and reducing the risk of injuries over time.
Do I need a prescription from my doctor to come and see a massage therapist?
You typically do not need a prescription from your doctor to visit a massage therapist. However, it’s essential to note that many insurance plans require a prescription from a physician for massage therapy coverage. The specifics can vary depending on your insurance provider and plan. Therefore, it’s advisable to check with your insurance provider to understand their requirements regarding coverage for massage therapy services.
What issues can athletic therapy help?
Athletic therapy can be incredibly beneficial for addressing a wide range of issues commonly faced by athletes and individuals engaged in physical activity. Whether you’re dealing with sports-related injuries like sprains, strains, or muscle tears, or you’re seeking support for rehabilitation after surgery, athletic therapy can provide targeted treatment to help you recover and return to your peak performance. Additionally, athletic therapy can assist with injury prevention by identifying and addressing imbalances or weaknesses that may lead to future injuries. It’s also effective for managing chronic conditions such as tendonitis or overuse injuries, offering personalized strategies to alleviate discomfort and improve function. Overall, athletic therapy is a versatile and effective approach to optimizing your physical health and well-being, whether you’re an athlete or simply someone who enjoys staying active.
Coverage for athletic therapy services may vary depending on your insurance provider, so it’s advisable to check with them to determine if you have coverage for these beneficial treatments.
What can I expect during my massage therapy initial assessment appointment?
When you come in for your first therapeutic massage therapy appointment, you can expect a thorough initial assessment aimed at understanding your specific needs. Our goal is to address any pain points you may be experiencing effectively. Your appointment will begin by reviewing your medical history and discussing the details of your injury or discomfort. This initial consultation ensures that we tailor the treatment precisely to your condition. Following the assessment, you’ll receive hands-on treatment targeting the affected muscles, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissues. Your therapist will then outline a personalized post-treatment care plan to support your healing journey. Depending on your needs, your treatment plan may incorporate various techniques such as deep tissue massage, myofascial tensioning, cupping, and trigger point therapy. Our focus is on providing you with comprehensive care to enhance your rehabilitation, manage pain, and promote improved range of motion and posture correction.
For returning patients. This visit will entail a brief reassessment of your progress as well as hands-on treatment.
What can I expect during my massage therapy initial assessment appointment?
When you come in for your first therapeutic massage therapy appointment, you can expect a thorough initial assessment aimed at understanding your specific needs. Our goal is to address any pain points you may be experiencing effectively. Your appointment will begin by reviewing your medical history and discussing the details of your injury or discomfort. This initial consultation ensures that we tailor the treatment precisely to your condition. Following the assessment, you’ll receive hands-on treatment targeting the affected muscles, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissues. Your therapist will then outline a personalized post-treatment care plan to support your healing journey. Depending on your needs, your treatment plan may incorporate various techniques such as deep tissue massage, myofascial tensioning, cupping, and trigger point therapy. Our focus is on providing you with comprehensive care to enhance your rehabilitation, manage pain, and promote improved range of motion and posture correction.
For returning patients. This visit will entail a brief reassessment of your progress as well as hands-on treatment.
Do you direct bill to insurance companies?
We do offer direct billing to several insurance companies, including Manitoba Blue Cross, Medavie, Canada Life, Claim Secure, WCB, and MPI. This means that if you are covered by any of these providers, we can submit your claim directly on your behalf. However, if your insurance provider is not included in our direct billing system, don’t worry. We will provide you with a paid invoice that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement of your out-of-pocket expenses. It’s always a good idea to double-check with your insurance provider beforehand to understand your coverage details and any specific requirements they may have.
What's the Difference Between Physiotherapy and Athletic Therapy at Elite Sports Injury Clinics?
At Elite Sports Injury Clinics, we offer both Physiotherapy and Athletic Therapy services. Though these professions may seem distinct from one another, our teams work together seamlessly to give our patients access to only the highest-quality care available.
Our team of specialists in both fields are highly skilled at assessing and treating orthopedic and musculoskeletal injuries, with an approach tailored to meeting each person’s unique needs and initiating their healing journey.
When making theis choice between the two fields, you may want to consider your insurance coverage. Neither Physiotherapy or Athletic Therapy requires a physician referral at Elite Sports Injury.
Be sure to check your insurance policy if it requires referral for reimbursement of services rendered.
Is physiotherapy, athletic therapy, massage therapy covered by insurance?
Whether physiotherapy, athletic therapy, or massage therapy is covered by insurance depends on your specific insurance plan. Many insurance providers offer coverage for these therapies, but the extent of coverage can vary widely depending on factors such as your plan’s terms, your deductible, and any limits or exclusions. It’s important to check with your insurance provider directly to understand your coverage details. Some plans may cover these therapies partially or fully, while others may not cover them at all. Additionally, certain insurance plans may require a referral from a healthcare provider for coverage. By contacting your insurance provider, you can clarify what services are covered and any requirements for reimbursement, helping you make informed decisions about your healthcare options.
Is physiotherapy suitable for all ages?
Absolutely! Physiotherapy is suitable for individuals of all ages, from infants to seniors. Physiotherapists are trained to assess and treat a wide range of conditions and injuries that affect the body’s movement and function. Whether you’re a child with developmental delays, an athlete recovering from a sports injury, an adult managing chronic pain, or a senior aiming to maintain mobility and independence, physiotherapy can be tailored to meet your specific needs. Physiotherapists employ various techniques such as exercise therapy, manual therapy, education, and modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation to help improve mobility, reduce pain, and enhance overall quality of life. So, regardless of your age or condition, physiotherapy can play a vital role in optimizing your health and well-being.
Can I see a physiotherapist even if I'm not injured or in pain?
Absolutely! Seeing a physiotherapist even when you’re not injured or in pain can be highly beneficial. Physiotherapists are experts in movement and function, and they can help you optimize your physical health and performance. By working with a physiotherapist proactively, you can improve your posture, enhance your strength and flexibility, prevent injuries, and even enhance your athletic performance. Physiotherapists can provide personalized exercise programs, ergonomic advice, and movement assessments to help you achieve your health and fitness goals. So, whether you’re an athlete looking to prevent injuries, someone looking to improve their overall physical well-being, or simply want to move more efficiently, consulting with a physiotherapist can be a valuable investment in your health and future.
Can physiotherapy help with balance problems in older adults?
Physiotherapy can be incredibly beneficial for addressing balance problems in older adults. As we age, maintaining balance becomes increasingly important for preventing falls and maintaining independence. A physiotherapist will assess your balance abilities and develop a customized treatment plan to target any weaknesses or deficits. This plan may include exercises to improve strength, coordination, and proprioception, as well as techniques to enhance vestibular function and sensory integration. By consistently working with a physiotherapist, you can significantly improve your balance and reduce the risk of falls, ultimately enhancing your overall quality of life and confidence in everyday activities.
How can physiotherapy help with post-surgical rehabilitation?
Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in helping you bounce back after surgery. It isn’t just about getting you back on your feet – it’s about setting you up for the best possible outcome after the operation.
After an operation, a patient has two main aims: first, to avoid any possible complications, and second, to bounce back to living without pain as swiftly as possible. With a tailored plan crafted just for you, our physiotherapists use education on regaining proper mobility, pain management techniques, manual therapy and modalities, exercise, and personalized home exercise programs so you can keep progressing when away from the clinic.
Remember, what you get out of your rehab program depends on what you put in.
And, while it’s not always suggested, we recommend Pre-surgery rehabilitation for the best outcomes. Why? Well, pre-op rehab not only beefs up your muscles but can also trim down your recovery time after surgery. Plus, it improves your balance, lowers the risk of falls, helps with reducing extra weight to ease pressure on your joints, boosts your fitness level, and gets you familiar with the exercises you’ll be doing during post-op rehab. It’s like priming your body for the big recovery ahead.
What is the Total hip/knee program through the Government of Manitoba?
If you are a resident of Manitoba, and your surgery took place after January 1, 2023 you may be eligible for this government funding.
This program is available at Elite Sports Injury – designed for people who’ve undergone total hip and/or knee replacement surgery to make it easier to get the physiotherapy treatment you need. This Government of Manitoba Post-Op Funding Program covers one of two options, either: Six (6) one-on-one treatment sessions or a maximum of $540, whichever comes first, OR. 10 group sessions or a maximum of $490, whichever comes first.
Eligibility Example #1 – Patient has no private or third-part coverage
If the patient has no insurance the full cost of the appointment is eligible for coverage up to the specified dollar amount or maximum visit/class number, whichever comes first.
Eligibility Example #2 – Patient had third-party coverage (option to use MB Post-Op funding as a secondary insurance).
Patients with private coverage must first utilize their third-party insurance. If the coverage is 80% then the patient can use the MB Post-Op funding as a secondary insurance to cover remaining 20%. This will still cap at 6 visits, even if only a small portion of the funding has been used.
Eligibility Example #3 – Patient has third-party coverage (option to use MB Post-Op funding once primary insurance has maxed).
If the patient has private coverage, they may choose to pay for their appointments and cover the remaining balance themselves. Once they have maxed their own insurance, they may use the Manitoba Post-Op coverage in one of the two treatment streams 6 individual session OR 10 group sessions.
Treatment streams:
- One-on-one treatment sessions with a physiotherapist, to ensure you get personalized care.
- Hip and knee classes with a physiotherapist instructor. These classes are great for doing your exercise program in a fun environment, and getting to know other people with hip and knee conditions. Learn more about our total hip and/or knee replacement program.
It is required to book a physiotherapy initial assessment to determine which treatment option is appropriate for your condition.
Do you offer acupuncture?
Yes, we have physiotherapists who are certified to perform acupuncture. Acupuncture is used only as a part of your physiotherapy treatment.
What is dry needling? How can it help me?
Dry needling is a minimally invasive technique used by trained healthcare professionals to target trigger points within muscles. During dry needling, thin needles are inserted into these trigger points, causing a twitch response which can help release tension and alleviate pain. We have physiotherapists who are certified to perform dry needling as part of your treatment. This technique is effective in treating various musculoskeletal issues such as chronic pain, muscle tightness, and sports injuries. By targeting specific areas of discomfort, dry needling promotes improved muscle function, range of motion, and overall mobility. It can be particularly beneficial when integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your individual needs, ultimately aiding in your recovery and enhancing your quality of life.
How do I know if a Physiotherapist is practicing legally?
To ensure that a physiotherapist is practicing legally in Manitoba, you can verify their credentials and registration status with the College of Physiotherapists of Manitoba (CPM). Here’s how you can do it:
- Check the CPM website: Visit the official website of the College of Physiotherapists of Manitoba at www.manitobaphysio.com. The website typically provides a searchable directory or registry of physiotherapists who are licensed to practice in Manitoba. You can use this online tool to look up the physiotherapist’s name and verify their registration status.
- Contact the CPM directly: If you prefer to verify a physiotherapist’s credentials over the phone or if you encounter any difficulties with the online search tool, you can contact the College of Physiotherapists of Manitoba directly. You can reach them at (204) 287-8502 during their office hours. The staff at CPM can assist you with verifying a physiotherapist’s registration status and provide any additional information you may need.
When verifying a physiotherapist’s credentials, it’s essential to ensure that they are listed as an active member of the College of Physiotherapists of Manitoba and that their registration is in good standing. This indicates that the physiotherapist has met the necessary requirements for licensure, maintains ongoing professional development, and adheres to the standards of practice and code of ethics set forth by the regulatory body.
Does Manitoba Health cover the cost of physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy services provided at private clinics are generally not covered by Manitoba Health. However, while Manitoba Health does not cover physiotherapy services at private clinics, individuals may have access to coverage through extended health insurance plans. Checking with your insurance provider can help clarify the extent of coverage available and ensure that you can access physiotherapy services as needed while minimizing out-of-pocket costs.