It is possible to alleviate chronic pain caused by traumas or other pre-existing disorders with physiotherapy. Patients who seek the services of physiotherapists may expect them to use a wide range of treatment methods to help them regain and enhance their range of motion and flexibility while also easing muscular tension and discomfort.

Alberta is one of the states where physiotherapists do not need a recommendation from a doctor to see them. This means physiotherapists are primary care providers. And we at Vista Physiotherapy, Calgary, have certified physiotherapists to cater to your health issues.

Therefore, when you plan to book a physiotherapy session at our clinic, we recommend you know our workings and book your appointment in advance.

Remember, physiotherapy is a team effort, and you and your therapist can make it simpler and more effective if you both work together.

If you’re new to our practice, we suggest arriving 10 minutes early for your initial visit. This gives you plenty of time to fill out the necessary paperwork and ask our administrative staff any billing-related queries you may have.

Here are a few things that you should consider while booking your first appointment with a physiotherapist in Calgary.

The Initial Assessment

In the first appointment, your physiotherapist will do a thorough assessment to determine the cause of your problem. You may need to answer about your medical history and general health at the beginning of a consultation. It is a good idea to have any relevant paperwork with you.

Your physiotherapist may ask you to do a few movements or exercises in loose clothes. Your doctor may ask you to walk a short distance to see whether your ailment affects how you walk. Depending on your condition, you may also be subjected to clinical tests, including reflex and nerve testing. Therefore, cotton shorts, leggings, and t-shirts are best for visiting a therapist.

Your physiotherapist will likely come up with a treatment plan for you after seeing you. There is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to therapy, and the person decides the number of sessions required. The average session lasts 30 minutes; however, the practitioner has the discretion to extend it if necessary.

Types of Treatment

Your treatment will begin after the completion of your first evaluation. Physiotherapy employs a variety of therapeutic modalities.

Muscles, tendons, and ligaments are the body’s soft tissues that are worked on during a massage. Massage has been demonstrated to aid in rehabilitating athletic injuries by easing muscular stiffness and alleviating stress. After an accident or surgery, such as a knee replacement, fluid retention (oedema) in the bodily tissue may build up. Getting a Massage treatment in Calgary can help reduce this.

Physiotherapy also includes exercises and stretches that aim to improve strength and mobility. We try to maintain the region as motionless as possible and avoid moving. Stubbornness and physical weakness may result. A physiotherapist can show you the best exercises to do. Muscular dystrophy, a condition characterized by weakening of the muscles over time, may be treated with physiotherapy exercises.

An inflammatory part of the body may be treated using high-frequency sound waves, such as electrotherapy or therapeutic ultrasound. Soft tissue injuries and swelling around a joint are the most prevalent disorders that react effectively to therapeutic ultrasonography. When thick scar tissue forms around an injury, ultrasound therapy may help the body break it down.

Heating pads, flannel, and heated wraps may be used to alleviate pain in the form of heat treatment or thermotherapy. The muscles’ flexibility and the occurrence of spasms may be improved by applying heat directly to the affected part of the body.

What Will The Treatment Include?

Physiotherapists have access to a wide range of therapies. The following is a rundown of the most popular methods of treatment—

• Soft tissue massage
• Joint mobilisations: The pressure is applied to the joints to increase movement.
• Dry needling:  very fine needles are placed into the tissue. There may be a little twitch in the region due to it.
• Correction of postural habits: Home exercises, gym work, and returning to sports may all be part of a comprehensive programme for improving overall health and fitness.

It is up to your physiotherapist to choose which therapies are most beneficial for you. It’s crucial to realize that none of these treatments are required; you may always choose not to get a certain therapy.

Things to bring along for your first appointment?

In addition to your insurance card, bring any invoicing information that may be useful. Please contact our physical therapists beforehand if you would like to complete your new patient paperwork ahead of time.

• Bring a list of any drugs or supplements you currently take to your physical therapist’s initial appointment. 
• It’s a good idea to bring any records of diagnostic tests you’ve had for your ailment or injury to your visit so your therapist may go through them.
• Write down any questions as you prepare for your appointment. You and your therapist can now talk about your concerns more easily.
• You should think about what you want to gain from therapy and how you want to feel afterward. During your first session with your therapist, discuss your objectives and the activities you expect to resume. 

What should you wear?

• Make sure you’re dressed in a way that allows your physical therapist to inspect the part of your body that needs treatment. If you’re heading back from the office, you may want to carry a few extra outfits.
• It’s always a good idea to bring any braces, slings, or other medical equipment you’ve used to discuss with your therapist.

Bottomline

With the support of your physical therapist, you will be on the road to recovery. You may suffer some pain or discomfort due to your therapy, particularly after surgery.

Be honest about how much pain you’re feeling so your physical therapist may continue to make changes that help you improve with the least discomfort possible.As always, connect with the top Physiotherapist in Calgary if you have more questions or concerns about your physical treatment. Whether you’re a first-time or experienced patient, we’re here to help.