FAQ’s

Have a question or curious to know what to expect?
We have your questions answered!

a) How should I prepare for the first appointment?

Arrive on time. If you are late, you are taking away valuable time from your assessment/treatment. Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing. If you have a low back, hip, or knee injury, bring shorts. If you have a shoulder injury, wear a loose fitting t-shirt or tank top. If you have a doctor’s referral (particularly after surgery), bring that as well.

b) What should I expect at my first appointment?

When you arrive you will be asked to read and fill out the intake forms (health history forms) and sign a consent form and a COVID 19 waiver form. Your first appointment will be an hour-long assessment and your physiotherapist will ask you specific questions to get a detailed history of your condition and current symptoms. You may then may be asked to change into the appropriate clothing as needed. Your physiotherapists will complete a posture and movement assessment. This will consist of specific tests for your area of injury. After your assessment, your physiotherapist will educate you on your condition and discuss your treatment plan and may provide you with hands-on therapy, corrective exercises or a pain-relieving modality depending on the findings during your assessment.

c) Does Highland Physio & Rehab directly bill insurance companies/providers?

Yes, if the Insurance company permits we can submit the claims to them directly.

d) How many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

This depends on your condition and how long you’ve had symptoms. After your assessment and physical examination, your physiotherapist will recommend a treatment plan and estimated number of sessions.

e) How long is each session?

Appointment length depends on the service (physiotherapy, massage therapy, or acupuncture). We can confirm session times when you book.

f) Do I need to wait until I have the results of my diagnostic test (X-ray, MRI, etc) prior to seeing a physical therapist?

Not at all. You can start your treatment even before your test results. Our healthcare professionals will do thorough assessments with you and make their diagnosis to plan your treatment. Upon receiving your test results, bring a copy to your therapist.

g) Do I need to see my doctor prior to booking a physiotherapy assessment?

Absolutely, not. Physiotherapists are primary care providers and can treat patients without referral but some extended health insurance plans require a doctor’s referral to reimburse you for your physiotherapy sessions. Check with your extended health provider for coverage.

h) Should I go for physiotherapy or massage?

Ultimately, it is your choice. You know your body best. We will often recommend that you see physiotherapy first and then go from there. The reason is that physiotherapy assessment is a little more in-depth than massage assessment. Your physiotherapist will give you a Diagnosis and treatment plan to get back to your life. Your physiotherapist can let your massage therapist know specific muscles or muscle groups that need to be worked on. Together, physiotherapy and massage therapy are very complementary to one another. Great results can come from using both as well as one or the other. Massage therapy can also be incorporated for body and mind relaxation.

i) Does OHIP cover Physiotherapy, or the other services offered by Highland Physio and Rehab?

No, OHIP does not cover physiotherapy, or Highland Physio and Rehab other services. This is the same for most physiotherapy clinics in Ontario. However, most private healthcare plans cover physiotherapy. Please check your plan for coverage details.

j) Do you have a female massage therapist in your clinic?

Yes, we do have a female massage therapist who serves all our clients

k) Where can I find a physiotherapy clinic near me?

We are located in Kitchener-Waterloo and offer physiotherapy services for all types of patients and cases.

l) I want to use my extended health & benefits plan, when does it expire?

All extended health & benefits plans run the calendar year of January 1st- December 31st

m) Is cold laser therapy painful?

No, cold laser therapy is quick and painless with no downtime.

n) Do I need a doctor’s referral for physiotherapy?

No, you don’t need a referral to see a physiotherapist. However, your insurance provider may require one for reimbursement purposes.

o) Is physiotherapy covered under insurance?

Many insurance plans cover physiotherapy services. We recommend checking your benefits to confirm your coverage details.

p) Do you provide physiotherapy treatment for all ages?

Yes, we treat patients of all ages.

q) Is physiotherapy an intensive or non-invasive treatment?

Physiotherapy is a non-invasive, conservative treatment focused on helping you improve function and reach your recovery goals.

r) How much does physiotherapy cost?

Pricing depends on the condition and the type of treatment required.

s) Does the clinic provide physiotherapy supplies such as resistance bands or braces?

Yes, we carry many products, including resistance bands and braces. Payment is required upfront, and we provide an invoice that you can submit to your insurance provider for reimbursement. Some insurance plans may also require a doctor’s note.

t) What if my insurance only covers part of the cost?

Any remaining balance would be paid out of pocket. If you have secondary insurance coverage, you may be able to claim the remaining amount through that plan.

u) Do you treat women’s health concerns?

es, we offer women’s health physiotherapy. Our pelvic physiotherapist can help with pelvic floor-related concerns.

v) Do you offer cupping therapy?

Yes, we offer dry cupping therapy at our clinic.