Common questions you may have
Do I need a referral to see a physiotherapist?
No. In Alberta, you can book directly with a physiotherapist without a referral. Some insurance providers may require one for reimbursement, so check your plan. If you’re unsure, we can help confirm this for you.
Reference: College of Physiotherapists of Alberta – Direct Access
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Arriving prepared helps us focus on your care right away. Bring your:
- Insurance card and claim information
- Referral or imaging (if available)
- Claim number and adjuster details (for MVA/WCB clients)
- List of medications and relevant health history
- Comfortable clothing that allows easy movement and access to the injured area
How long are sessions?
- Initial Assessment + Treatment: usually 45–60 minutes
- Follow-up Treatments: typically 30–45 minutes, depending on your needs
Complex cases (post-surgical, neurological) may require longer sessions, which will be discussed with you.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
We ask for at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or change an appointment. This allows us to offer your spot to another client. Missed appointments or late cancellations may be subject to a fee.
Reference: Common practice across Alberta physiotherapy clinics; aligned with business fairness standards.
Why do I need to do home exercises?
Healing doesn’t stop at the clinic door. Home exercises are part of your treatment plan and are essential for progress. They help build strength, improve mobility, and reduce flare-ups. Clients who commit to their program consistently see faster recovery and fewer setbacks.
What if I don’t follow my treatment plan?
Physiotherapy is a partnership. While we provide professional care and guidance, your active participation — attending sessions, doing your exercises, and following recommendations — is critical. Without your involvement, progress will be slower, and outcomes less predictable.
How do you track my recovery?
We use outcome measures (ODI, DASH/QuickDASH, LEFS, KOOS/HOOS, NDI) alongside physical reassessments. These are recognized in Alberta and Canada and ensure your progress is measurable and transparent. You’ll see how far you’ve come and what steps remain.
What happens if my injury is from a car accident (MVA)?
Physiotherapy is often covered through your auto insurance under Alberta’s Diagnostic & Treatment Protocols. You can begin care right away. Just bring your insurer details, claim number, and adjuster contact.
Reference: Alberta Diagnostic & Treatment Protocols Regulation, Alta Reg 96/2004
What if my injury is work-related (WCB)?
Healing Hands AB works with WCB Alberta. Once your claim is approved, treatment costs are covered directly. Please bring your claim number and employer details to your first visit.
Reference: WCB Alberta – Physiotherapy Fee Schedule & Guidelines
Do you offer seniors’ discounts?
Yes. All clients aged 65+ receive $20 off every visit. Seniors often have unique mobility or health needs, and we believe in making physiotherapy accessible for this important stage of life.
Do you provide direct billing?
Yes. We offer direct billing to most major insurers. Coverage depends on your individual plan. If your plan does not allow direct billing, we’ll provide receipts for easy reimbursement.
What if I’m unsure about booking?
If you’re still uncertain, you’re welcome to call us at 403-307-8114 for guidance. We can review your situation, check your benefits, and explain what your first session would look like.
Are my records private?
Yes. All physiotherapists in Alberta are bound by confidentiality and must comply with the Health Information Act (HIA) and the College of Physiotherapists of Alberta’s Standards of Practice. Your health information is protected and only shared with your consent.
Patient Responsibilities:
Physiotherapy is a shared process. This partnership helps ensure fairness, better recovery, and fewer disputes.To get the best results, we ask that you:
- Attend scheduled appointments on time
- Complete your home exercise program consistently
- Inform us of any changes in your condition, work status, RTW.
- Share new medical updates, investigation reports or medications.
- Follow safety instructions and return-to-work guidance.
- Provide notice of cancellations or rescheduling (24 hours minimum)
Do you follow Alberta professional standards?
Yes. All physiotherapists at Healing Hands AB are licensed with the College of Physiotherapists of Alberta and follow the Standards of Practice and Code of Ethical Conduct. Kinesiologists are members of the Alberta Kinesiology Association (AKA).
Is physiotherapy just machines or massage?
This is a common misconception. Physiotherapy is much more than machines or massage. While we may use tools like ultrasound, shockwave, or hands-on techniques to support healing, the core of physiotherapy is active recovery through movement, education, and guided exercise.
Can’t I just tough it out on my own?
In central Alberta, many people are used to hard work and 'pushing through' pain. But pain is your body’s way of asking for care — not something to ignore. Overdoing it, or not following a recovery plan, can slow healing or even make things worse. Our approach balances rest, treatment, and graded activity so you can return to work, sport, or daily life safely and sustainably. Recovery is not about showing toughness — it’s about building long-term resilience and independence.
Reference: College of Physiotherapists of Alberta – Standards of Practice; WCB Alberta guidelines on graded return-to-work; Canadian Physiotherapy Association statements on culturally safe care.