What should I do to prepare for my first appointment?
To make sure you get the most out of your first appointment at Evidence Sport and Spine, here are a few things you can do to prepare:
- Fill out your forms ahead of time: Please submit your patient forms, prior to your initial evaluation. If you cannot do this or do not have access to a computer, please allow extra time to fill these out upon arrival.
- Arrive early: Please arrive at least 20 minutes early to complete any remaining paperwork to maximize your time with one of our experts.
- Bring any relevant medical information: If you have seen a physician or other healthcare provider for your condition, please bring any medical records or notes to your appointment. This will help our physiotherapists better understand your condition and develop your personalized treatment plan. We can access most imaging online, if you do not have it.
- Bring insurance information: Please bring your insurance information so we can make a copy of your card for our records.
- Wear comfortable clothing: Please wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement. This will allow our physiotherapists to perform a thorough physical assessment and develop a tailored treatment plan.
- Know what you want to accomplish: Our approach works best if you clearly understand your goals. Spend time thinking about what you hope to achieve during our time together. This information will help us develop a customized plan to suit your needs.
- Come with questions: We encourage you to come to your first appointment with any questions or concerns. Our clinicians are happy to explain your treatment and condition so you can get the most out of your treatment.
- Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) Insurance and Workers Compensation (WCB) Claims: In case of an automobile accident or worker’s compensation claim, bring any case manager or insurance adjuster’s contact names, phone numbers, and claim numbers.
What kind of clothing should I wear for appointments?
You can expect to move when you come into an appointment at Evidence Sport and Spine! For that reason, it’s important to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and appropriate footwear, such as runners or athletic shoes.
Dress as you would when you’re headed to the gym, and you’ll be ready to kick-start your treatment or training.
What office policies should I be aware of?
It’s important that you understand our office policies so you can focus on your recovery, not administrative concerns. Please take note of the following policies:
Appointment cancellation policy: We understand that sometimes appointments need to be rescheduled or canceled. Please let us know at least 24 hours in advance (72 hours for physician appointments) if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment to avoid a cancellation fee.
Any missed appointments that have not been rescheduled with sufficient time will result in a non-refundable charge.
- Payment policy: Payment is due at the time of service. We accept various forms of payment, including cash, e-transfer, and credit card. Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns about payment. In many cases we are able to direct bill your insurance provider and payment will only be required for the portion not covered.
- Insurance policy: We accept most insurance plans and will work with you to ensure that you receive the best possible care within the confines of your insurance coverage. Please bring your insurance card to your appointment, and talk to your insurance provider about your coverage.
- Privacy policy: We take your privacy seriously and follow strict PIPA , FOIP and HIA guidelines to ensure the confidentiality of your personal and medical information. Please let us know if you have any concerns about your privacy or would like to review our privacy policy.
- Arrival policy: Please arrive on time for your appointment to ensure you receive your session’s full benefit. If you arrive late, we may need to reschedule your appointment or adjust the length of your session to accommodate other patients.
- Communication policy: We encourage open and honest communication with our patients and welcome any questions or concerns you may have about your treatment plan or progress. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to improve your experience. We will also send you a satisfaction survey for you to provide any additional feedback.
At Evidence Sport and Spine, we are committed to providing excellent care. If you have any questions or concerns about our office policies, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Will my insurance cover the cost of treatment?
In most cases, yes. It’s important that you check with your insurance provider to understand what services they can cover.
We also offer a range of payment options if your insurance doesn’t cover treatment or only covers a portion of it. Our clinic will work with you to assess your insurance benefits and determine your payments at each visit.
For more information, please see our insurance page, and don’t hesitate to contact our North Calgary or South Calgary, AB clinic with any questions. Our knowledgeable staff will gladly assist you.
I do not have insurance. Can I still receive treatment?
At Evidence Sport and Spine, we believe everyone deserves access to quality healthcare, and our clinic will work directly with you and/or your doctor.
Healthcare costs can be a concern, and we strive to provide affordable options for all patients. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns.
How can I pay for each session?
For any services we are not able to directly bill to your insurance, our policy is to collect payment at the time of service to ensure a seamless experience for all patients. We also provide payment options based on your unique circumstances and accept various methods of payment, including the following:
- Cash
- E-transfer
- Credit card
- Debit card
If you have insurance, please contact your provider to better understand your coverage, copayments/coinsurance, and overall plan requirements. Our staff will also assess your benefits and inform you of your payments at each visit.
Please contact your closest Calgary clinic to learn more about our payment policies and options.
How can I schedule an appointment?
At Evidence Sport and Spine, we want you to accomplish your goals – and that means regularly attending your sessions. To help ensure you’re keeping up with your therapy, we offer a variety of appointment times to fit your schedule, including mornings, evenings and weekends. Plus, our scheduling process is quick and easy.
We have 2 Evidence Sport and Spine locations, and our sister clinics Momentum Health cover all quadrants of Calgary. Our staff is always happy to help you schedule your appointment. You can call our Care Centre at (403) 455-0025 (for all locations) or Book an appointment by clicking here.
We’re here to help you optimize your health and fitness – so schedule your initial appointment today!
How long should each Physiotherapy appointment take?
We provide customized, evidence-based care to all of our patients. To that end, your first visit will be one hour, one-on-one, to give our clinicians time to conduct a detailed physical assessment, learn more about your specific needs, and develop a personalized treatment plan. Follow-up visits are 30 minutes.
The number and duration of visits will depend on your individual needs. We may recommend attending more frequent visits in the initial stages of therapy to maximize your progress, as discussed with your therapist.
As you advance through treatment, you will generally see your therapist two to three times per week, with fewer weekly visits and more extended periods between meetings. Pelvic health, massage and physician visits vary significantly.
The team of experts at Evidence Sport and Spine is committed to helping you achieve your fitness and performance goals through regular physiotherapy sessions.
Do you treat my condition at your clinic?
At Evidence Sport and Spine, our evidence-based practitioners treat various conditions and injuries. Our highly-trained, expert clinicians specialize in musculoskeletal and neurological conditions and will help you achieve the results you’re looking for.
We treat a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:
- Sports injuries
- Sports and athletic conditioning
- Post-surgical rehabilitation
- Pre-surgical treatment (“pre-hab”)
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Shoulder pain
- Knee pain
- Hip pain
- Arthritis
- Balance and coordination issues
- Neurological disorders such as stroke or Parkinson’s disease
- And more
If you are unsure whether we treat your specific condition, don’t hesitate to contact us; we will be happy to discuss your options and determine whether physiotherapy is right for you.
At Evidence Sport and Spine, we are committed to helping you achieve optimal health and wellness. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start your journey toward optimal fitness, performance, and overall health.
Can my physiotherapist diagnose me?
Yes! Firstly, it’s essential to understand what a diagnosis is. Essentially, it’s a process by which a medical professional identifies the cause or nature of a disease, disorder, or other medical condition. This process typically involves collecting information about a patient’s symptoms, medical history, and physical examination results. Additional imaging may or may not be needed.
Physiotherapy aims to find a diagnosis but also to help you optimize your health and fitness. While a diagnosis plays an essential role in this process, it’s not the only focus of a physiotherapy visit. A diagnosis may help our experts to better understand your symptoms, but ultimately, our goal is finding solutions to your concerns.
To do that effectively, our physiotherapist will start with a comprehensive physical examination and health history, including learning about the diagnoses you’ve received. In addition, we’ll collaborate with physicians to confirm or explore potential contradictions to a diagnosis, ensuring the accuracy of your diagnosis and the appropriateness of your treatment plan.
You can trust the team at Evidence Sport and Spine to consider any conditions you’ve been diagnosed with, alongside other key factors, when they develop your customized treatment plan. We’re committed to examining your specific circumstances as we work through your physiotherapy!
Can all physiotherapists order x-rays and ultrasound Imaging?
Physiotherapists who have taken additional training are authorized to refer patients for x-rays and other imaging. These tests are used conservatively to assist in establishing a diagnosis, to assist in interventional procedures, or in clinical decision making. All Momentum Health & Evidence Sport and Spine clinics have clinicians who have been authorized by the College of Physiotherapists of Alberta to order diagnostic imaging.
How can I tell if I will benefit from physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy can strengthen your muscles, increase your endurance, improve your range of motion, help you avoid a sedentary lifestyle, and much more! In short, physiotherapy offers a wealth of benefits for anyone looking to get and stay active.
Depending on your situation, physiotherapy may be the only solution you need, or your physiotherapist at Evidence Sport and Spine will be part of a collaborative team with multiple healthcare professionals. Either way, our experts will get a full picture of your needs before developing a scientifically-backed treatment plan tailored just for you.
When will I start to see results?
We know how anxious you are to see the results of your therapy. There isn’t any one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Your timeline can vary based on your health and fitness levels when you started, whether or not you’re recovering from an injury, the severity of your condition, and much more.
It’s also important to understand that physiotherapy, as a rule, is not a quick fix but a process that takes time, effort, and dedication. You may start to feel some improvement in your symptoms after a few sessions, but it may take weeks or even months to achieve optimal results.
We can guarantee that our clinicians will explain the process to you every step of the way. We’ll keep detailed records of your condition, symptoms, treatments, and overall progress to ensure you’re advancing the way we expect. If something isn’t working, we’ll work to find a solution that does.
If you have any questions about your treatment plan or timeline, please do not hesitate to discuss them with our experts. The more we know about your experience with treatment, the better we can tailor our approach to maximize your efforts!
Do treatments hurt?
If you exercise regularly, you’re likely familiar with the concept of “good” pain (such as muscles burning from fatigue) and “bad” pain (such as a sharp, shooting pain in your joint). Physiotherapy operates in much the same way.
While our physiotherapists are not purposefully trying to hurt you, there may be times when a treatment triggers a temporary pain response. But like a fatigued muscle, that pain response is a normal part of the process. A bit of pain now will lead to improved movement in the long term.
It’s especially important to keep the concept of normal versus abnormal pain in mind if you’re recovering from surgery. You’ll likely experience some pain as you work to restore strength and range of motion in your recuperating muscles – but this type of pain will ultimately reduce your overall pain levels and promote your mobility.
Similarly, you may have begun avoiding specific movements if you’re experiencing imbalances or impairments in your musculoskeletal system. As you start to perform those movements again, you may experience some initial discomfort.
It’s vital that you communicate any pain or other sensations you experience during treatment to your physiotherapist. This information helps us fully understand your progress and allows us to make necessary adjustments or other modifications.
How is my progress tracked?
Because we take an evidence-based approach to physiotherapy here at Evidence Sport and Spine, tracking your progress is a significant part of our process! Keeping good records is essential to understanding if your treatment is working as intended or if we need to make any adjustments.
We’ll track changes in your physical capabilities, functional movements, and overall fitness to ensure you progress. Depending on the reason for your treatment, we’ll likely track most of the following:
- Range of motion
- Strength (i.e., power, speed, endurance)
- Functional mobility
- Coordination and agility
- Specific movements, such as squatting, lunging, or running
We’ll also track any impairments you might be experiencing, such as pain or swelling.
Our therapists will help you set specific, realistic goals for your therapy sessions so you have a complete picture of what exactly you’re working toward. We’re committed to helping you achieve optimal results in your performance, function, and overall health.
You may be asked to fill out a questionnaire called a patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) which tells us your health status at assessment and discharge. This helps us measure the impact of our services. Some insurance companies require these be filled out as a condition of coverage.
When does physiotherapy take longer than expected?
We know you’re eager to get back to the activities you love. Recovery can be a slow process, depending on the reason for your treatment. Our evidence-based approach means we’re always looking for the best, most proven options, but some impairments and injuries simply take a long time to rehabilitate.
It’s also important to remember that at Evidence Sport and Spine, we’re treating the cause of your pain, not the symptoms. Because our treatments aren’t just superficial, it’s understandable that some may take longer than expected.
Our therapists will work with you to find a solution that works as quickly as possible without sacrificing safety. One factor that can help speed up your recovery is actually – you! By attending your scheduled therapy sessions and following your therapist’s instructions (such as completing at-home exercises or taking a break from intensive training), you will start to see improvements.
Our team wants to see you succeed. We’re committed to helping you optimize your fitness and accomplish your goals. Whether your treatment takes a few weeks or several months, you can rest assured that every approach we take is backed by science and proven to work
Should I continue seeing a therapist even when I feel better?
The short answer is yes! However, at Evidence Sport and Spine, we encourage you to continue seeing your physiotherapist after your symptoms appear to have resolved, if it is medically warranted.
Even though you may feel better, you may still not be fully rehabilitated. Furthermore, regular physiotherapy can prevent future injury or pain while helping you optimize your overall physical performance and function.
Physiotherapy is a comprehensive and ongoing process, not a one-and-done. Even after you’ve completed your initial round of treatment, our therapists can help you develop a personalized medical plan that ensures you’re continuing to maximize your potential.
Here’s an example:
- Your therapist assigns you a series of specialized at-home exercises so you can continue to strengthen your muscles and improve your range of motion.
- You come in for a re-evaluation after a period of time, to ensure your home exercise program is working as intended.
- You schedule check-in appointments at regular intervals (such as every six months) to ensure you haven’t regressed and to address any new developments.
Our clinicians will also develop a return-to-activity schedule so you can safely return to your favourite sport or workout program while minimizing the risk of reinjury. A return-to-activity schedule involves gradually increasing the intensity of certain movements until you can operate as usual.
The physiotherapists at Evidence Sport and Spine are here to help you succeed with your treatment. To get started, book an appointment today!
What is a registered massage therapist?
A registered massage therapist is a trained healthcare professional who specializes in the art and science of therapeutic touch. Massage therapy is a holistic approach to healing that involves the manipulation of soft tissues to relieve pain, reduce stress, and promote overall health and wellness.
Our Evidence Sport and Spine massage therapists work with patients of all ages and backgrounds, from athletes and weekend warriors to office workers and seniors. They help patients manage a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, musculoskeletal disorders, stress and anxiety, and post-injury or post-surgical recovery.
Massage therapists use various techniques to address their patient’s needs, including:
- Swedish massage
- Deep tissue massage
- Myofascial release
- Trigger point therapy
- Sports massage
They also may incorporate complementary techniques such as stretching and range of motion exercises.
In addition to providing hands-on therapy, registered massage therapists work closely with their patients to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs and goals.
Our registered massage therapists are trained professionals who specialize in the art and science of therapeutic touch. We work with patients of all ages and backgrounds to manage various conditions and promote overall health and wellness through a holistic approach to healing.
What does a massage therapist do?
At Evidence Sport and Spine, our massage therapists are trained professionals who use hands-on techniques to manipulate the soft tissues and muscles of the body. Massage therapy is a holistic health practice that can help alleviate pain, reduce stress, and improve overall wellness.
We treat patients of all ages with a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, [sports injuries], stress-related tension, and [postural imbalances]. Our therapists use techniques such as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, and myofascial release to address specific areas of pain or tension and promote relaxation and healing.
Our therapists will typically ask about the patient’s health history and any current symptoms or concerns during a massage therapy session. They will then develop a personalized treatment plan based on the patient’s needs and preferences. They may use various techniques to address specific areas of the body.
Massage therapy at Evidence Sport and Spine also complements traditional medical treatments, such as physiotherapy. Many patients find regular massage therapy sessions can help them manage chronic pain or stress and promote overall well-being.
What if I need to cancel my appointment?
We understand that sometimes circumstances make attending your scheduled appointment difficult or impossible. In the event of illness or an emergency, please call our clinic at least 24 hours before your appointment time to avoid any cancellation fees. Physician appointments require 72 hours notice.
Please note that a non-refundable charge will be applied to missed appointments that have not been rescheduled at least 24 hours in advance (72 hours for physician appointments).
At Evidence Sport and Spine, we want to accommodate all our patients while maintaining a smooth and efficient schedule. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
What should I know about physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy is a comprehensive, hands-on approach to relieving pain, restoring function, and improving performance. Our therapists want to help you achieve optimal results in your fitness training, athletic pursuits, and overall health.
The physiotherapists at Evidence Sport and Spine are experts in movement and the musculoskeletal system. By evaluating your movement patterns, we can help you prevent injury, maximize your training, prepare for and recover from surgery, reduce pain, and restore your body’s full functionality.
We accomplish these goals through a wealth of techniques, including manual therapy, exercise prescription, and collaboration with the right clinicians for your needs. Perhaps that’s your doctor, one of our physicians, your pharmacist or a psychologist. We will put our decades of experience into connecting you with the right recommendations for you.
Whether you’re recovering from an injury, looking to level up your athletic training, or simply want to improve your overall health and well-being, physiotherapy can help. We’ll tailor your treatment plan to meet your needs and goals, then work with you to implement it successfully.
Our experts are here to guide you on your journey to optimal health and wellness. Contact Evidence Sport and Spine today to schedule an appointment.
How long do massage therapy sessions typically last?
Massage therapy sessions can vary in length depending on the client’s needs and preferences. Typically, sessions last anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes, although some therapists may offer shorter or longer sessions. The most common treatment time is 60 minutes. During your first appointment, your Evidence Sport and Spine massage therapist will discuss with you the length of the session that would best suit your needs.
Massage therapy is beneficial for individuals of all ages and backgrounds, from athletes and office workers to pregnant women and seniors. Massage therapy can help alleviate common conditions, including:
- Stress
- Headaches
- Muscle pain and stiffness
- And other soft tissue injuries
Regardless of the length of your massage therapy session, your Evidence Sport and Spine massage therapist will tailor your treatment to your individual needs and preferences, providing a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
What can I expect from my first massage therapy session?
Welcome to your first massage therapy session!
Our Evidence Sport and Spine massage therapists are dedicated to providing a safe and relaxing environment where you can experience the healing benefits of massage therapy.
During your first session, we will start with a review of your health history and any specific concerns or goals you may have. This information will help us tailor your massage to your unique needs and preferences.
We offer a variety of massage techniques, and your Evidence Sport and Spine therapist will work with you to determine the best approach for your needs, such as adjusting the pressure and focus areas to ensure comfort and satisfaction.
Massage sessions typically last between 60 and 90 minutes, although longer sessions are available upon request. You will have the option to disrobe to your comfort level. You will be covered by a sheet or blanket throughout the session, with only the area being worked on exposed.
Our therapists use high-quality massage oils or lotions to help soothe and relax your muscles. Upon request, they may incorporate additional techniques, such as hot stones or aromatherapy.
At Evidence Sport and Spine, you can expect to leave your first massage therapy session feeling more relaxed, rejuvenated, and with a greater sense of well-being. We look forward to working with you on your optimal health and wellness journey!
Call (403) 455-0025 today to schedule an appointment!
Is it necessary for me to be completely undressed?
When receiving massage therapy, your comfort and privacy are very important. Dress to your level of comfort, knowing that your Evidence Sport and Spine massage therapist will cover and drape you with the sheets and only uncover specific sections at a time. We will always work with you to ensure you feel relaxed and at ease throughout your session.
It is common for massage therapists to use draping techniques, such as a sheet or blanket, to cover areas of your body that are not being worked on. This allows for privacy and helps maintain a warm and comfortable environment.
Your Evidence Sport and Spine massage therapist will work with you to identify your specific needs and create a personalized treatment plan that meets your goals and preferences. We will also guide you on how to communicate with them during the session to ensure that you feel comfortable and receive the most effective treatment possible.
You are a top priority during your session!
How will I feel after my massage therapy session?
After a massage therapy session at Evidence Sport and Spine, you may experience a range of sensations, including relaxation, reduced muscle tension, and increased mobility. You may also feel more alert and energized or experience a sense of calm and well-being.
It is common to feel some soreness or tenderness in areas that were massaged, but this should subside within a day or two. Drinking plenty of water after your session is vital to help flush out any toxins released during the massage.
Massage therapy can positively impact your physical and emotional well-being, and you may notice improvements in your mood, sleep, and overall quality of life. The benefits of massage therapy can vary depending on the techniques used and your individual needs. Most of our clients report feeling more relaxed, centered, and connected after a session.
Your Evidence Sport and Spine massage therapist will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific concerns and goals. We will also guide you on self-care practices and exercises that can help you maintain the benefits of your massage therapy sessions over the long term.
Schedule a massage today and reap the benefits of enhanced relaxation!
What do physiotherapists do?
Evidence Sport and Spine’s team of highly skilled physiotherapists is committed to improving your fitness and quality of life through personalized care backed up by research. Physiotherapists offer a diverse array of treatments, each designed to address specific patient needs and conditions. The choice of treatment depends on the patient’s diagnosis, physical capabilities, and treatment goals. We accomplish this goal through the use of different treatment approaches, including the following:
- Exercise Therapy: This includes a range of therapeutic movements and exercises tailored to improve strength, range of motion, endurance, and flexibility. Exercises can also be designed for rehabilitation post-injury or surgery and for managing chronic conditions.
- Manual Therapy: Techniques such as massage, mobilization, and manipulation are used to enhance joint function, relieve pain, and improve circulation. This category includes stretching and manual resistance training.
- Dry Needling (IMS): These techniques involve inserting needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain and improve physical functioning.
- Education: Providing information on posture, ergonomics, and correct movement techniques is crucial in preventing injuries and managing chronic conditions effectively. Physiotherapists also offer advice on equipment use, such as walkers and braces.
- Gait Training and Mobility Aids: For patients who struggle with walking or mobility, physiotherapists provide training to improve gait mechanics and may recommend and customize mobility aids like crutches, walkers, or wheelchairs.
- Respiratory Techniques: In a hospital setting (not at our clinic), physiotherapists can teach techniques to improve lung function and aid in clearing secretions from the respiratory tract.
Each of these treatments can be used alone or in combination, tailored to the individual’s specific needs and progress. The ultimate goal is to help patients achieve the highest possible level of independence and quality of life.
Our therapists will also provide you with detailed information about your condition, including prevention measures, education, and more. If you’ve been injured or undergone surgery, we’ll help you rehabilitate afterward and develop return-to-activity schedules so you don’t risk re-injury.
Do I need a doctor’s referral for physiotherapy treatment?
You can visit a physiotherapy clinic of your choice and receive the treatment you need without a prescription or referral from a doctor, unless your insurance specifically requires it.
Evidence Sport and Spine in North Calgary and South Calgary, AB offers results-driven treatments. Our approach is backed by the latest research in our field. No matter your health, functionality, and fitness goals, we’ll help you achieve them.
Can I choose any physiotherapy clinic for treatment?
Absolutely!
The Patient’s Bill of Rights empowers you to select the clinic of your choice for any medical matter. You are not obligated to recommendations made by your insurance company, or other entity.
We provide a proactive, results-oriented environment with well-trained, knowledgeable staff. We’re confident that Evidence Sport and Spine will provide the highest quality care to help you achieve your goals.
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