What shoes do I wear with my custom orthotics?

Your orthotics should be able to fit inside most footwear including boots, dress shoes, and running shoes. You can move your orthotics from shoe to shoe to ensure that your feet are always supported. If you are looking for orthotics for much smaller shoe types, your Physiotherapist can help you shape the orthotics or discuss specialized pairs designed to fit in these smaller shoes.

Do I have to break my orthotics in?

Some people find that their custom orthotics are uncomfortable to wear at first, and may only be able to handle them for a couple hours at first. Additionally, it depends on your initial foot posture and the level of support the orthotic is giving to you. Generally, it is recommended that you gradually increase the amount of wearing time, especially if you have not worn orthotics before.

What is the difference between custom and store-bought orthotics?

Store-bought orthotics may help provide some relief and support but they are not designed to fit your foot or specific needs. The custom orthotics are created from a mold of your foot and after a thorough assessment of your walking patterns. Additionally, your Physiotherapist will watch your movements with the orthotics on to ensure they are addressing the issue they were created to resolve. Ultimately, this ensures that the custom orthotics are more effective and better for long term resolution.

How do I know if I need custom orthotics?

If you are experiencing any form of lower back, hip, knee, ankle, heel, arch or toe pain, custom orthotics may be helpful for you. Additionally, if you have abnormal foot posture (flat feet), an uneven gait, and/or pain, discomfort, or fatigue from being on your feet, orthotics may be helpful for you. Alternatively, some people choose to wear orthotics solely for prevention, comfort, and support even if they are not experiencing pain.

Does traction fix disc bulges?

Spinal traction does not reverse a disc bulge. However, it can provide relief from symptoms and pain while an acute disc herniation heals. By providing decompression forces to the area of the bulge, it can reduce the pressure of the bulge on other structures in the area.

Who should not use spinal traction?

There are certain conditions that should not undergo spinal traction/decompression services. For example, individuals with acute fractures, spinal instabilities, osteoporosis, pregnant women and more. You will undergo a screening and assessment by a Registered Physiotherapist first to ensure your appropriateness for the treatment.

Is spinal traction safe to use?

Yes, for most individuals, spinal traction is safe to use. Some spinal conditions make you ineligible for this treatment, such as rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory conditions, severe spinal instabilities like fractures, infections, cancers, tumours, or osteoporosis. Your Physiotherapist will ensure they perform a thorough assessment first to make sure the treatment is appropriate for you. Additionally, the traction force is modified for each person relative to their body weight. Ultimately, this ensures the treatment is a comfortable experience.

Is it bad to walk with foot pain?

Pushing yourself to walk with foot pain can worsen the condition and result in further injury. If your pain significantly increases the more time you spend on your feet, it may be time to seek help from a healthcare professional.

What should I wear for foot pain?

A comfortable, supportive pair of footwear such as running shoes are recommended for foot pain. Additionally, custom orthotics are available at PhysioNow. A Physiotherapist will perform a fitting and the orthotics can be delivered directly to our clinics.

Why do I have foot pain when walking?

This is dependent on a lot of different factors such as your gait pattern (the way you walk and place your weight on your feet), footwear, activity level, or even referred from another part of the body. The best way to figure out why is to go see a professional like a Registered Physiotherapist. They will work with you to determine the cause and resolve your issue so that you may walk pain-free!

Should you push through ankle pain?

In the early days of an ankle injury, you probably want to avoid pushing it too hard. Afterwards, some pain and soreness may be acceptable when you’re performing your exercises and starting your physiotherapy treatment. In most cases, we want to avoid sharp, intense pain. Your physiotherapy will educate you on pain management and how to know whether a pain is appropriate or too much for your current condition.

Does walking reduce ankle pain?

In some cases, walking may be a part of the rehabilitation journey for your ankle to help build up its endurance and resilience to activity. For stiff ankles, walking may be a great way to reduce pain, mobilize the joint and improve swelling. The best way to determine this is to consult with your physiotherapist.

What is the best exercise for ankle pain?

The best exercise for your pain will be dependent on what kind of ankle issues you are experiencing. However, all ankle conditions will benefit from a combination of range of motion/mobility exercises, strengthening, and balance and coordination exercises. Your physiotherapist can help you put together a program that’s right for you!

What is physiotherapy for foot pain?

Physiotherapy for foot pain can assist with any foot-related condition including the ones lifted above. It will involve a comprehensive assessment and treatment from a Registered Physiotherapist to determine and address the cause of your pain.

Can physiotherapy help ankle pain?

Yes, definitely! Even if your injury is acute, our physiotherapists can treat your ankle using a variety of techniques. For example, they may use some soft tissue massage, manual therapy, and/or modalities like ultrasound, electrotherapy or cryo/heat therapy to help relieve pain.

How many members does the Canadian Athletic Therapists’ Association have?

Currently, the Canadian Athletic Therapists’ Association (CATA) has more than 3000 members Canada-wide.

Can an athletic therapist recommend a brace for me?

Yes, an athletic therapist can assess whether or not the use of a brace is necessary and can recommend which one is best for you. They are also skilled at assessing foot-types and can recommend the proper shoe to wear or whether an orthotic is necessary. All of the PhysioNow clinics carry a variety of custom knee braces, custom orthotics as well as off-the-shelf bracing that may be appropriate for your injury or condition. Coverage for custom braces and custom orthotics should be confirmed with your insurance provider to check if it is covered. Predetermination insurance letters can be provided if requested.

Do I have to be an athlete to be treated by an athletic therapist?

No, although athletic therapy treatment can be beneficial to individuals involved in sports, any musculoskeletal injury can be treated by an athletic therapist, regardless of its cause.

Do athletic therapists have a governing body?

Yes, athletic therapists must be certified and a member in good standing with the Canadian Athletic Therapists’ Association (CATA). In addition to passing a national certification exam, athletic therapist must hold a bachelor’s degree in sport therapy or a degree in health sciences with a specialization in sports injury management.

Are athletic therapy treatments covered by my insurance provider?

Every insurance provider and plan is different. Contact your provider to find out if athletic therapy treatments are covered under your current plan.

What can I expect in a treatment session of manual osteopathy?

Your manual osteopathy will use a gentle hands-on approach of the whole body to first assess, and then treat you. There are many different techniques used in manual osteopathy and the ones used will also vary with each individual practitioner. Some examples include soft tissue manipulation, muscle energy techniques, fascial release, manual lymphatic drainage, visceral manipulation, cranial-sacral techniques, osteoarticular technique.

What conditions or who may benefit from osteopathic treatment?

Manual osteopaths can treat a wide variety of conditions due to their holistic way of treatment. For example, headaches, postural issues, overuse injuries, mobility issues, acute or chronic musculoskeletal pain, TMJ pain, sports injuries and more. In every condition, your manual osteopath will assess the root cause of the issue and work with you to restore any structural imbalances detected.

Do I need a Dr’s referral to see a Manual Osteopath?

No, you do not require a Dr’s referral first. We can take self-referrals and you are more than welcome to book an appointment to discover what manual osteopathy is about. However, if you have an acute or chronic medical condition that is of concern, your professional may refer you for medical clearance first.

Will my insurance cover manual osteopathy?

Yes, many private health insurances in Canada will cover manual osteopathy such as Canada Life, Manulife, Green Shield, Sunlife and more. Most extended health care plans will cover a maximum amount in the year, and/or a maximum amount per session. As coverage will be different depending on each individual’s policy, we recommend that you check with your insurance to confirm the details.

How is manual osteopathy different from physiotherapy and/or massage therapy?

While manual osteopathy and physiotherapy may share some similarities like the conditions that they can address, the treatment principles behind each profession is different. Osteopathy is a very hands-on profession that emphasizes the body’s ability to heal itself. It believes that the systems are all dependent on each other and aims to correct any imbalances or disturbances that prevent the body from maintaining itself. For example, if your primary complaint is neck pain, a manual osteopathy may still assess the other parts of the body like the limbs or the lower body to assess if they are contributing to your pain.

Can plantar fasciitis come back after treatment?

Yes, plantar fasciitis can come back. This is especially true if the underlying factors that caused the condition are not addressed. In addition, it can return if you go back to wearing unsupportive footwear. It’s important to continue with your exercises and recommendations from your health care professional in order to minimize the chance of your pain recurring.

How long does it take to recover from plantar fasciitis?

Recovery time is highly unique to each individual, depending on type of job, lifestyle, severity of pain, and more. Some people may experience symptoms for a year or longer, especially if they have left it untreated. However, plantar fasciitis often improves with conservative treatments within a few months. In some cases, with shockwave therapy, improvements can be seen after just a couple of sessions. It is best to treat the pain as early as possible. The longer the pain has been there, oftentimes the more stubborn it can be to leave as more scar tissue has developed.

What are the treatment options for plantar fasciitis?

Conservative treatment is the primary method for plantar fasciitis, including a combination of relative rest and activity modifications, physical therapy for stretching/strengthening exercises and soft tissue massage, wearing supportive footwear (ex. Running shoes rather than sandals), using orthotic devices or shoe inserts, and modalities like shockwave therapy.

How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?

Typically, a health care professional will diagnose based on your signs, symptoms and a physical examination. For example, the presence or absence of that warm up pain may be used to rule in or out plantar fasciitis, and a physical examination may involve special tests specific to plantar fasciitis such as the Windlass test. Sometimes, imaging tests such as X-rays or ultrasound may be ordered to rule out other causes of foot pain.

Is there parking at the clinics in Mississauga?

Certainly! Our clinics in Mississauga offer convenient parking facilities. We understand the importance of accessibility, and we strive to provide a hassle-free experience for our clients. Whether you’re visiting us for physiotherapy sessions or other services, you can rest assured that parking is available to accommodate your needs. If you have any specific questions or concerns about parking, feel free to reach out to our staff, who will be more than happy to assist you and ensure your visit is as smooth and convenient as possible.

What can I expect during my initial visit to a physiotherapist in Mississauga?

Your first appointment is dedicated to a comprehensive assessment of your condition. The emphasis lies in unravelling the origins of the issue and delving into lifestyle factors influencing it. The physiotherapist conducts a thorough physical assessment, evaluating mobility, strength, flexibility, and posture. This holistic approach allows for a complete understanding of your symptoms, laying the foundation for a uniquely tailored treatment plan. By combining in-depth discussions about your health history with a meticulous physical examination, the initial visit ensures a precise diagnosis, setting the stage for effective and personalized physiotherapy interventions to address your unique needs.

How does physiotherapy in Mississauga contribute to injury prevention?

PhysioNow empowers our patients to enhance their recovery and avert reoccurrences through simple lifestyle adjustments. We guide you in taking an active role in your well-being. For example, cultivating an awareness of your posture and its impact on body function as a preventative measure to injury. We will educate on posture corrections and proper body mechanics to enhance efficiency and prevent injuries. Furthermore, our approach extends to modifying habits and making subtle workplace or work out adjustments to optimise your well-being. Physiotherapy at PhysioNow not only facilitates recovery but also equips you with tools to safeguard against potential injuries, ensuring a proactive and lasting health journey.

Will my insurance benefits cover physiotherapy in Mississauga?

Typically, extended health plans include coverage for physiotherapy, but it’s essential to verify the specifics of your policy. Contact your insurance provider to clarify details such as coverage terms and billing procedures. PhysioNow facilitates a smooth process by directly billing certain insurance companies. Should you require assistance with navigating insurance claims, our knowledgeable staff is here to provide guidance. Explore the comprehensive support we offer to ensure that your physiotherapy journey is not only beneficial for your health but also hassle-free in terms of insurance procedures.

Is Vestibular Physiotherapy Treatment in Etobicoke covered by insurance?

Typically, extended health insurance plans cover the cost of physiotherapy visits, including Vestibular Physiotherapy. However, individual insurance plans vary, so it’s advisable to check with your insurance company to confirm your specific coverage details. At PhysioNow in Etobicoke, our team can assist you in navigating this process. If your plan permits, we can even facilitate the direct submission of treatment costs to your insurance company, streamlining the process for your convenience and ensuring a smoother experience with Vestibular Physiotherapy at our clinic.

Can I choose your physiotherapy in Etobicoke even if my doctor referred me to another clinic?

Certainly! You have the flexibility to choose where you receive physiotherapy. If your doctor referred you to another clinic in Etobicoke, you can still opt for PhysioNow. It’s important to ensure that the physiotherapist providing your care is registered with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario, guaranteeing their qualifications. At PhysioNow, we welcome individuals seeking physiotherapy services and are dedicated to delivering high-quality care tailored to your needs. Feel free to choose the clinic that best aligns with your preferences and requirements for a positive and effective physiotherapy experience in Etobicoke.

Will physiotherapy in Etobicoke be effective for my condition?

In the majority of cases, physiotherapy has demonstrated significant effectiveness. Extensive research consistently supports the positive impact of physiotherapy on recovering from various orthopaedic conditions and reducing the likelihood of re-injury. Following the initial assessment at our Etobicoke clinic, we can determine the potential effectiveness of physiotherapy for your specific condition. If, for any reason, our treatment approach is not proving beneficial, we are committed to promptly referring you for further testing or alternative interventions to ensure you receive the most appropriate and effective care for your individual needs.

Is physiotherapy in Etobicoke painful?

Physiotherapy is generally designed to alleviate pain and improve mobility, but some individuals may experience mild discomfort during certain therapeutic exercises or manual techniques. It’s important to communicate openly with your physiotherapist about any discomfort you may be feeling, as they can adjust the treatment plan accordingly. The goal of physiotherapy is to enhance your well-being, and the discomfort experienced during certain exercises is often temporary and part of the healing process. Your physiotherapist at PhysioNow in Etobicoke will work with you to ensure that your sessions are as comfortable as possible while effectively addressing your specific needs.

Do I require a doctor's referral for physiotherapy in Oakville?

No, a doctor’s referral is not necessary for physiotherapy at PhysioNow in Oakville. As a primary health care profession, you can access our services without a referral. However, it’s essential to note that certain extended health insurance providers may mandate a doctor’s referral for coverage. To ensure a smooth process, we recommend checking with your insurance company beforehand. While our doors are open for direct appointments, understanding your insurance requirements ensures that you can make the most of your physiotherapy experience at PhysioNow in Oakville, where we prioritize your health and well-being.

What should I wear for my physiotherapy session in Burlington?

To facilitate a thorough assessment and treatment, we recommend opting for loose-fitting clothing. This allows our physiotherapists at our Burlington clinic to easily see and access the areas of your body that require attention. Popular choices include shorts and T-shirts or loose sweatpants that can be rolled up conveniently. This clothing choice ensures that the session is both comfortable and effective, allowing our team to provide targeted and personalized care to address your specific needs. At PhysioNow, we prioritize your comfort and the efficacy of your physiotherapy experience, making appropriate attire a key consideration.

Are there potential side effects or risks with physiotherapy treatments in Oakville?

While physiotherapy at PhysioNow Oakville is generally safe and well-tolerated, as with any medical intervention, there may be minimal risks or side effects. Our dedicated team prioritizes your safety, providing thorough explanations of potential risks related to specific treatments. Throughout your physiotherapy journey, we maintain vigilant monitoring of your progress, ensuring any adverse effects are promptly addressed. Your well-being is our utmost concern, and we strive to deliver effective, personalized care with transparency and a commitment to minimizing any potential risks associated with your tailored treatment plan.

What conditions and injuries can a physiotherapist in Oakville address?

At PhysioNow Oakville, our skilled physiotherapists specialize in a diverse array of conditions and injuries. From managing musculoskeletal pain and treating sports injuries, to facilitating post-surgical rehabilitation and addressing motor vehicle accident injuries, our team is well-equipped to handle a broad spectrum of physical ailments. With a comprehensive understanding of the human body and advanced assessment techniques, our physiotherapists devise personalized treatment plans to promote recovery and enhance overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with acute or chronic issues, trust Physiotherapy from PhysioNow Oakville for expert care tailored to your specific needs.

How long does a typical physiotherapy session last?

Depending on the severity of your disease and the treatment plan created just for you, a physiotherapy session’s length can change. A session could last anywhere from 30 to an hour on average.

How many physiotherapy treatments will I need in Burlington?

The number of treatments varies based on individual factors. Typically, many conditions necessitate 2 to 3 sessions weekly for around four weeks, followed by a gradual reduction in frequency over the next few weeks. However, the duration can be shorter for some and longer for others with longstanding conditions. At PhysioNow in Burlington, our approach is personalized, assessing your unique circumstances to determine the optimal treatment plan. Your physiotherapist will work collaboratively with you, adjusting the frequency and duration of sessions as needed, ensuring a tailored and effective rehabilitation journey based on your specific needs.

What should I expect after finishing my physiotherapy sessions in Burlington?

Upon the completion of your physiotherapy sessions at PhysioNow in Burlington, you’ll receive comprehensive guidance for at-home maintenance to preserve the improvements achieved and prevent recurrence. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and exercises necessary for ongoing self-care. Additionally, with your approval, we may communicate your progress and completion to your physician, fostering coordinated healthcare. At PhysioNow, our commitment extends beyond the treatment period, ensuring that you are well-equipped for continued success, armed with the tools and strategies to maintain and build upon the positive outcomes of your physiotherapy program.

What conditions or injuries do you treat at your Oakville physiotherapy clinic?

Sports injuries, musculoskeletal pain, post-surgical rehabilitation, neurological problems, arthritis, and chronic pain management are just a few of the conditions and injuries that we treat. Our team is prepared to deal with a range of problems impacting diverse age groups and lifestyles.

Is it beneficial to combine massage therapy with physiotherapy in Burlington?

Certainly. We highly recommend the integration of registered massage therapy alongside physiotherapy at our Burlington clinic. The collaborative nature of these disciplines proves effective, especially for clients dealing with issues like shortened, tight, or painful muscles. Massage therapy serves as a valuable adjunct to our treatment approach, addressing muscular concerns in conjunction with physiotherapy’s focus on functional aspects. This combined approach enhances the overall treatment effectiveness, providing a more comprehensive and personalized solution to meet the unique needs of our clients. At PhysioNow in Burlington, we prioritize a holistic approach that optimizes the synergy between these therapeutic modalities.

Does your physiotherapy in Oakville accept Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) and Workplace Injury (WSIB) cases?

Absolutely! PhysioNow in Oakville welcomes Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) and Workplace Injury (WSIB) cases. For MVA cases, when booking, please provide your claim and policy number, along with your adjudicator’s name and auto insurance details. For WSIB, promptly complete a claim with your employer. Once approved for physiotherapy, schedule an initial consultation at our Oakville location with your claim number, adjudicator’s name, and employer details. Our dedicated team in Oakville streamlines the process, ensuring seamless coordination with insurance entities. Your well-being is our priority, and we’re committed to facilitating your recovery journey after motor vehicle accidents or workplace injuries in Oakville with efficient and supportive physiotherapy services at PhysioNow.

Can shockwave therapy damage nerves?

In very rare cases, shockwave therapy can create nerve damage but the risk is generally quite low. This is usually a result of a failure to follow proper safety guidelines if the shockwave is not properly targeted. As a result, this can be avoided when performed by trained and experienced healthcare professionals, and with a thorough screening to ensure that you are an appropriate candidate for shockwave therapy.

Are shockwave therapy results permanent?

The duration of the results from shockwave are variable and depend on the specific condition and the severity, the patient’s overall health and their adherence to post-treatment advice. Some patients will receive a long-lasting or permanent benefit, while others may have recurrences and benefit from periodic maintenance or additional treatments.

What is the success rate of shockwave therapy?

The success of shockwave therapy will be very variable depending on the specific condition it is being used for, the severity and chronicity of the condition, and also characteristics of the individual themselves. For the most common conditions, plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis), and patellar tendinopathy, the success rate has ranged from 65 to 91% in some studies with minimal complications.

Can shock wave therapy cause damage?

Shockwave therapy is considered safe and non-invasive as a treatment for certain musculoskeletal conditions. However, it carries some risks and side effects such as temporary soreness, pain, swelling, redness, and bruising in the treatment area. These side effects should only last for a couple days post treatment. Additionally, shockwave therapy is not suitable for everyone such as women that are pregnant, certain medical conditions like blood clotting disorders, and with certain medications. Make sure you consult with your healthcare provider thoroughly first before undergoing shockwave therapy.

Cervicogenic Dizziness: Can Physiotherapy Help Vertigo?

What is cervicogenic dizziness?

Cervicogenic dizziness is a type of vertigo or imbalance that originates from dysfunction in the neck, particularly the cervical spine. Unlike inner ear (vestibular) or neurological dizziness, this form of dizziness is related to how your brain interprets signals from the muscles, joints, and nerves in your neck.

Key characteristics include:

A sensation of unsteadiness or disorientation
Dizziness triggered by neck movements or poor posture
Often accompanied by neck pain, stiffness, or headaches

What causes it?

People who have cervicogenic dizziness will complain about issues with their neck as well.

The upper cervical spine has rich sensory input that communicates with your brain to help control balance and spatial awareness. When there’s an injury (like whiplash), chronic poor posture (like from prolonged screen use and/or desk work), or joint dysfunction, the brain may receive conflicting signals — leading to dizziness.

Common causes include:

Whiplash injuries (common from motor vehicle accidents)
Degenerative disc disease
Cervical spondylosis
Muscle tension or strain

How does Physiotherapy help?

Physiotherapy plays a vital role in both diagnosing and treating cervicogenic dizziness. A comprehensive assessment will include a detailed history, postural evaluation, and specific tests to rule out vestibular or neurological causes.

Treatment typically includes:

1. Manual therapy

Gentle joint mobilizations and soft tissue techniques can help restore normal movement and reduce muscle tension in the neck

2. Postural retraining

Improving posture through targeted exercises and ergonomic advice can reduce strain on the cervical spine. This includes things like reducing sedentary time, taking regular breaks from desk work, or adjusting the setup of your work station.

3. Vestibular rehabilitation

In cases where the inner ear also plays a role, vestibular exercises may be incorporated to improve balance and coordination

4. Neck strengthening and mobility exercises

Gradual strengthening and stretching of the neck muscles help support proper function and reduce symptoms over time

5. Education and self-management

Understanding the condition and learning strategies to manage flare-ups empowers our patients and promotes long-term recovery and maintenance

What can I do to manage cervicogenic dizziness at home?

Maintain a neutral neck position, especially when using screens
Take frequent breaks from sitting to stretch and move
Use a supportive pillow that keeps your neck in alignment at night
Avoid quick or jerky head movements
Practice stress management techniques to reduce muscle tension

Looking for help with dizziness or neck pain?

Look no further than PhysioNow! Our expert Physiotherapists, Massage Therapists, and Manual Osteopaths can help you recover from your problems, whether it is a pain, injury, or other. With 10 locations across the GTA and free parking, we are the right location for you! Book with us today for your first assessment and treatment!

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