No matter what condition you have, finding a physiotherapist that you like isn’t all that difficult. Like many other health professions, there are a number of different areas of expertise when it comes to physiotherapy and it’s governed by some pretty strict standards of service. Practitioners need to be well educated and officially registered in order to practice. So, figuring out which physiotherapist can provide you with the treatment you need requires more than just picking one out of the yellow pages.
Here are five key tips for finding a good Ottawa physiotherapist that you can trust:
Check Qualifications
As with any health professional, it is important that your physiotherapist is completely qualified and fully accredited. They are required to have completed a degree at an institution that has been approved and they need to be registered with the Physiotherapy Board of your particular area. This ensures that the Code of Practice is adhered to and that all practitioners are completely insured.
Knowledge of Relevant Area of Expertise
Physiotherapy is part of a wide area of coverage, which is why you need to seek out a physiotherapist with the most relevant qualification for your particular issue. For example, if you have a bad back, you should seek out somebody who specializes in musculoskeletal conditions. If you are recovering from heart bypass surgery, see a cardiovascular physiotherapist.
Location
This might seem like a minor issue, but it is something that should be considered, especially if your condition is chronic. Driving long distances isn’t the best choice when you have a musculoskeletal issue, as post-surgery physiotherapy can be a delicate process. If you can, you should choose an Ottawa physiotherapist that is close to you or that is not too difficult to get to with easy access such as wheelchair ramps.
Method of Treatment Consideration
It’s not usually wise to second-guess the best treatment, but you might have a preference for a type of treatment. Traditionally, physiotherapists will use techniques such as movement and massage, but today, there are more techniques used. These could include acupuncture, hydrotherapy, reflexology, and shiatsu. You can always ask your provider if there is an alternative treatment. Many clinics that offer physiotherapy will also offer alternative treatment options.
Availability
One of the most important considerations is whether or not the physiotherapist is actually available. When you are in pain, a waiting list isn’t your best option. It is important that you get treatment as quickly as you can, so ask about their workload. This can be essential if you have a relapse and need attention right away. Smaller practices can offer great treatment, but larger clinics are better to handle the availability issue.
