What to wear

Physiotherapy

It is best to wear clothing that will allow the therapist access to the affected area of the body. Shorts and gowns are available to borrow from the facility.

Chiropody

Loose pants that are easily rolled allow the chiropodist full access to the foot for treatment. Also, bringing shoes which are worn most often and any previously worn orthotics will provide necessary information for the session.

Physiotherapy and Chiropody

The first treatment session will involve an initial assessment. This will include questioning and physical tests performed by the therapist to help further understand their patient?s condition.

The therapist and patient will discuss and set realistic, long term, and short term goals to guide treatment and help measure the success of therapy. This will also ensure the patient the opportunity to express their goals to the therapist.

A treatment plan will then be designed by the therapist to work towards achieving the agreed upon goals. This plan will include treatment sessions with the therapist as well as a home exercise program that the patient is responsible for.

Treatment sessions following the initial assessment will focus on treatment/management of the patient?s symptoms, education regarding the musculoskeletal condition, and monitoring the home exercise program. Alterations to the treatment plan will be made as required.

Massage Therapy

To isolate and effectively treat conditions it is helpful to gather as much information as possible regarding your general health, the etiology (cause and origin) of your condition, and your treatment goals. At our clinic, the four departments (physiotherapy, chiropody, personal training and massage therapy) often combine their expertise into a team approach to give you the best possible care.

To protect your privacy, all information you provide is confidential. It will be kept secure in accordance with privacy laws, and will not be released without your written consent. Your personal information will not be sold or given to anyone who may contact you to sell products or services.

Once a treatment plan is mutually agreed upon the MT treatment can commence. Every aspect of the treatment (positioning, draping, techniques used, etc.) will be explained and your verbal consent must be given to proceed. During the treatment, the only areas of your body that will be uncovered are those that the therapist is immediately treating. Please note that treatments can be applied through your clothing or through a sheet. However, the treatment will be more effective with direct contact. Oils or lotions are used to eliminate friction on the tissue and nourish the skin. Your therapist will be monitoring your comfort level and you are encouraged to comment and ask questions. You can stop or modify your treatment at any time for any reason.

After your treatment you may experience some discomfort and/or headache. This is common and should dissipate by the following day. Remember, massage therapy is not a quick-fix panacea and it is the combination of remedial exercise, activity modification, and subsequent treatments that are all important to achieve your goals. Enjoy your massage!