What is Physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession directed at evaluating, restoring and/or maintaining physical function.
Physiotherapists (or Physiotherapists) have a detailed understanding of how the body works and are university educated. They are trained to assess and improve movement and function. They educate people in how to minimize pain and prevent injury.
Physiotherapists promote good health by encouraging their patients/clients to improve and increase their independence.
What types of coverage are available for physiotherapy?
Extended Blue Cross covers up to 90% of their fee schedule and the yearly maximum is typically $450.00.
If you had an injury at work accepted by the Workers Compensation Board your treatments will be covered. Manitoba Public Insurance pays for treatment required as a result of injuries caused from a motor vehicle accident. Sun Life, Great-West Life, Manulife, and other insurance carriers cover physiotherapy services. Please check you or your spouse's insurance plans for details.
Manitoba Health only covers physiotherapy treatment in hospital departments and on a limited basis through Home Care. There are unfortunately waiting lists from 2 weeks to 3 months at hospital physiotherapy departments.
Do I need a Doctor's referral before I can see a physiotherapist?
No, although it is helpful if you have been to your doctor and they provide their diagnosis and pertinent x-ray or lab results. You can be assessed by a physiotherapist first and the results of the assessment and the recommendations are sent to your doctor for their information and comments.
How do I know if a physiotherapist is practicing legally?
There is a provincial licensing body [previously] called the Association of Physiotherapists of Manitoba, which is now called the College of Physiotherapists of Manitoba, as the new Act has now been proclaimed in the legislature. They can be contacted to ensure that your physiotherapist is registered on the current practicing roster. Call or visit their website at www.manitobaphysio.com. Phone: (204) 287-8502.
What type of education does a physiotherapist have?
A physiotherapist (or physiotherapist) has a 4 year university degree, a baccalaureate.
The courses are very detailed in the areas of function, anatomy, physiology, pathology in the medical areas of cardio-respiratory (heart and lung function), musculoskeletal (muscle, bones and exercise/fitness), and neurology (cerebral palsy, strokes, head and spinal cord injuries), consulting (return to work, sports and work injuries) and research (eg. muscle strengthening and rehabilitation).
How often should you see your physiotherapist?
Everyone is different, but as a general rule an annual appointment prior to your annual doctor's appointment can be very beneficial. It provides both you and your doctor with current information about your physical health status.
Prior to starting a strengthening program to ensure any muscle or joint problems are taken into account to prevent pain or injury.
During a strengthening program to obtain assistance with safe and effective progressions in weights or exercise intensity.
To find out how physical activity and exercise can help you relieve stress and improve emotional well-being.