Choosing the right physiotherapist is important to help you achieve your health and fitness goals. There's more to finding the best therapist for you than just looking for what clinic is near you. Here are some things to look for when choosing a physiotherapist or a physiotherapy clinic:
Is the Physiotherapist Actually Treating You?
Many times, the physiotherapist you see may not be the one treating you. In some cases, they may have an assistant or aide who does most of the work. Be sure to ask if the physiotherapist will be personally treating you during your sessions.
Is the Physiotherapist Treating More than one Patient at a Time?
Some physiotherapists may see more than one patient at a time. This can be counterproductive to your personalized care. Be sure to ask how many patients the physiotherapist will be seeing during your session.
Is the Physiotherapist Licensed and Certified?
Physiotherapists are graduates of a university program in the Faculty of Medicine at select universities. All physiotherapists must be licensed in the province or territory where they practice.
What Experience Do They Have Treating Your Condition?
When choosing a physiotherapist, you also want to consider their experience. Through experience and post-graduate courses, physiotherapists become efficient at treating different types of patients with various medical conditions. Physiotherapists are not professionally allowed to use the word "specialist" when advertising their services. But make sure they have the expertise to treat your condition. Make sure they have experience treating patients with conditions similar to yours. This will help ensure that they can provide you with the best possible care.
Did They Assess You?
A good physiotherapist will always assess you before starting treatment. This assessment will help them determine what is causing your pain, if they are the right person to treat you and what the best course of treatment will be. Be wary of a physiotherapist that doesn't assess you.
Do They Have a Treatment Plan?
Once the physiotherapist has assessed you, they should have a treatment plan for you. This plan should be tailored specifically for you and your condition. It should include a home program and information on how to help yourself based on what they've found during your assessment. Your home program shouldn't stay the same, but should change as you improve until your goals are achieved. Be sure to ask about the details of the plan and what you can expect from it.
Do They Use a Variety of Treatment Methods?
Physiotherapists use a variety of different treatment methods. These methods may include exercises, massages, heat or cold therapy, and electrical stimulation. Be sure to ask about all of the different methods that will be used during your treatment.
Did the Physiotherapist Tell you What You Need or Did They Ask You?
A common complaint among patients is that they feel their physiotherapist didn't listen to them. This can be frustrating and leave you feeling like your needs aren't being met. Be sure to choose a physiotherapist who takes the time to listen to you and understand your needs. They should also be able to explain things to you in a way that you can understand.
These are just a few things to look for when choosing a physiotherapist. Your physiotherapist should be able to answer the above questions before you book an appointment. Be sure to take your time and choose someone who you feel comfortable with and who you think will be able to provide you with the care you need. If you're not sure if a physiotherapist is the right fit to help you, ask to speak to them before you book your appointment.
