Tag Archives: Physiotherapy Etobicoke

Say Goodbye to Knee Pain with Orthopedic Custom Knee Brace!

Say Goodbye and Beat knee pain with an Orthopedic Custom Knee Brace!

Here at PhysioNow, we can help you recover from your knee pain faster by providing you with a Custom Knee Brace. There are many types of knee braces available for purchase. Therefore, it can be overwhelming to know which brace is best for you so does the type of knee pain. In this article, we will give you an overview of custom knee braces. Also, provide instructions on how to start the process of ordering your custom knee brace.

Who can get a custom knee brace for knee pain?

Custom knee braces are most used for individuals with/after:

  • Post-operative recovery
  • Knee instability
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Ligament or meniscal injuries

Moreover, the brace is constructed using precise measurements taken from your leg. It is designed to only fit you.

Why get a custom knee brace? Is it worth it for knee pain?

Many patients have found that bracing has returned them to a level of function that they were previously thought to be unattainable after their injury. Some of the benefits of a custom knee brace include:

  • Firstly, get you back to doing the activities you love.
  • Second, reduce pain and increase the function of the knee.
  • Support and prevent further injury while you await imaging, surgery, or after surgery.
  • Individualized to your needs and level of activity ex. Lifestyle vs performance braces.
  • Ideal for long-term use.
  • Lastly, lightweight and can fit underpants for a subtle look.

What types of custom knee braces are there?

The most common type of custom-made knee brace is a rigid knee brace. They are usually made of metal, with a hinge to allow the knee to bend, and are the most supportive type of brace.

They are designed for individuals who need moderate-maximum support. The conditions that require a rigid custom knee brace include moderate to severe osteoarthritis, and athletes that need more support after an injury. Also, pre and post-surgical repair of ACL, MCL, PCL ligaments, or menisci.

Moreover, under the umbrella of rigid knee braces, there are unloader braces for osteoarthritis. These braces provide more support to the painful, arthritic side of the knee to offload it. This can preserve the joint space while reducing knee pain and increasing knee function.

Another category of rigid knee braces is ligament braces for ACL, MCL/LCL, and PCL injuries, including pre and post-surgical repair. These provide knee support to the sides of the knee to prevent any unnatural twisting or movements. However, our PhysioNow team of physiotherapists will be able to determine which brace is best suited to your goals and lifestyle.

How can I get a custom knee brace?

Follow these simple steps below to get one.

  1. Contact us at PhysioNow to book an appointment time for a custom knee brace assessment.
  2. On the day of your appointment, your PhysioNow Brace Specialist will perform a series of tests and ask you questions to determine which type of brace is right for you.
  3. Make sure you tell your Physiotherapist what activities you are currently doing, and any activities that you would like to get back to doing (ex. Golf, running, walking)
  4. Your PhysioNow Brace Specialist will measure and take recordings of your knee, and discuss any considerations like the desired weight of the brace, special features (ex. Straps and clips), materials, colors, etc
  5. Lastly, we will be able to make inquiries to determine whether your custom knee brace can be covered by extended health care coverage. Care plans that include physiotherapy service coverage will usually have coverage for a custom knee brace as well. This process requires a physician’s note, but our clinic will be able to walk you through the process and provide you with the documentation needed to send to your insurance company for inquiry.

Once ordered, delivery will normally take around 7 business days but can be expedited upon request. We will ensure that the brace fits properly and can make adjustments if needed once delivered. So get your own customized brace NOW!

Endometriosis and Pelvic Physiotherapy

What is endometriosis?

 

Endometriosis DiseaseEndometriosis is a condition where tissues which is similar to the inner lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus which can affect nearby organs including the bowel and bladder. The tissue thickens
and does shed with the monthly cycle.  At times when tissues get trapped and does not exit the body it can progress to form cyst called endometriomas. At last, it results in irritation to surrounding tissues and organs forming scar tissue and adhesions.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms includes,
Firstly, Pelvic pain.
Secondly,  Heavy periods.
Infertility.
Abdominal bloating.
Urinary and bowel concerns.
lastly,  Fatigue.
However, endometriosis can be mistaken for other conditions such as Irritable bowel syndrome, Inflammatory pelvic disease. Therefore, early diagnosis will help in managing the symptoms.

Treatment options available:

There is no cure for endometriosis currently. Although, treatments to manage the symptoms includes,
1. Hormone therapies.
2. Over the counter medication.
3. Pelvic physiotherapy.
4. Surgery.

Pelvic health physiotherapy in Endometriosis

Pelvic health physiotherapy can help to reduce the symptoms, improve the function, improve the flexibility and improve the strength of the pelvic floor muscles. The techniques help to relax the muscles which ultimately help to ease the symptoms. How does pelvic floor physiotherapy help in endometriosis,

  • Relieve endometrial pain: Approaches to down train the pelvic floor muscles and introducing bio-psychosocial approach to help in relaxing the pelvic floor muscles.
  • Reduce painful sex: Helping with stretches and breathing techniques, dilators, and hands on techniques to reduce the tension and resistance in the pelvic floor area.
  • Reduce abdominal bloating or endo belly by helping in assisting venous and lymphatic drainage
    in our body.
  • Painful urination: by educating on proper water intake, and voiding techniques and by
    maintaining a bladder diary to reduce the effects pressure causing pain when bladder fills up.
  • Painful bowel movements: Education and advices on diet and positions on easy bowel movements along exercises to manage the situation.

Also, pelvic floor therapy post endometriosis surgery would help to retrain pelvic floor muscles to relax and to coordinate contractions. This helps to reduce spasms during menstruation.

Lastly, Bio psychosocial component of pelvic floor physiotherapy helps in identifying and addressing the psycho social aspects and its influence on normal function of your body. Relaxation techniques and hands on techniques to calm down the senses that could be the trigger to pain can be managed to a great extent.

Take away message – If you are suffering from endometriosis and are finding difficulty to manage its symptoms, our team of qualified Pelvic PT will help you assess and guide through the whole treatment. Book your appointment today!

5 reasons you might need walking aids

Why do you need a walking aid?

Quality of life

Elderly man independent in walking

Restricted and reduced ability to walk and perform your daily chores can impact your quality of life. Walking aids are devices designed to help people walk and can be used by individuals of any age. As a result, this improves your quality of life by making you independent and confident. Here are some reasons that will indicate you need walking aids.

  1. difficulties walking whether it’s due to pain.
  2. frequent falls or fear of falling.
  3. tiring quickly.
  4. decreased balance.
  5. difficulty putting weight on a body part, post-surgery, or any other reason.

What types of walking aids are available?

The categories of walking aids include crutches, canes, and walkers, and has their own pros and cons. Below are general overviews of the most common types of walking aids.

  1. crutches, often prescribed to individuals following an injury or surgery to the lower body. They are usually used on both sides of the body but can be used on just one side. The benefits of crutches include complete non-weight bearing on the injured leg, can be used on stairs, and lastly near to normal walking speed can be achieved.  However, it needs good upper body strength, cannot use for longer distances and must have a higher level of balance.

    Walking Aids

    Different types of crutches

  2. Canes are used on a single side. Helpful for individuals with minor balance issues or weakness in the legs or body. You can either get a single-point cane or 4 points which provides additional stability. But, on another side, it gives an unstable base of support.

    Types of Canes

  3. Walkers are the most stable type of walking aid. The most common are 2-wheeled walkers and rollator or 4-wheeled walkers. They are good for longer distances and more stable but cannot be used on stairs or smaller occupancies. 
  4.  

    Types of Walkers 

How to choose a walking aid?

If you think you need a walking aid but are unsure which one is best for you, a physiotherapist can help assess your needs and recommend the right one. An unfitted walking aid or improper use of one can be a safety hazard and increase the risk of a fall.

At PhysioNow, we are a qualified team of Physiotherapists that would love to help you! We do a full assessment which will include your balance, strength, and the way you walk to determine whether need of a gait aid and which one is suitable. Also, provide resources on how to acquire one. Lastly, we will also teach you how to use it in your everyday life including sitting and standing up, walking, and navigating stairs and obstacles with your aid.

Book with us today for an initial assessment and treatment at PhysioNow! Improve your Quality of Life.

What is a Total Hip Replacement?

What is a Total Hip Replacement?Anatomy of the hip

 

A Total Hip Replacement (THR) is a type of surgery where a damaged hip joint is replaced with an artificial hip joint.  Doctors can use metal, ceramic or plastic replacement parts for the surgery.

When is a Total Hip Replacement necessary?

A Total Hip Replacement surgery is done when there is so much damage in the hip joint.  These joint changes cause severe pain and interference with daily living.  The damage in the hip may be as a result of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or post-traumatic arthritis.  Total hip replacement is recommended when:

  • Walking, going up stairs, and bending to get in and out of chairs is difficult
  • Pain is moderate to severe even while resting and disrupts sleep
  • Joint degeneration has caused stiffness that severely affects the range of motion and function of the hip
  • Conservative treatments such as medication, physiotherapy or using a cane or walker do not alleviate the symptoms

 

What part of the hip is involved in a Total Hip Replacement?

The hip joint is a ball and socket joint.  The ball of the joint comes from the head of the femur, which is the long bone of the thigh.  The ball is called the femoral head.  The socket of the joint is made up of several bones of the pelvis and is called the acetabulum.  Prostheses replace both the ball and socket in a total hip replacement.

What happens immediately after surgery?

After surgery, patients may spend several hours in a recovery room while the surgical anesthesia wears off.  Then the patient will be taken to a hospital room where he or she will spend 1 to 2 days recovering before being discharged.  The patient will be provided with specific post surgical instructions that will

  • Promote healing
  • Prevent dislocations of the hip
  • Help regain flexibility and strength through the limb
  • Reduce the chances of developing blood clots in the legs

What are hip precautions?

Depending on the surgical procedures, patients may be instructed on hip precautions they need to follow to minimize the chances of hip dislocations.  These precautions include:

  • Avoiding crossing the legs
  • Bending the hip up past 90 degrees of flexion
  • Rotation of the hip

How long does it take to recover from a total hip replacement surgery?

Recovery times vary between patients.  There are many different factors that influence the recovery time after hip replacement surgery.  Some of these factors include:

  • Physical fitness prior surgery
  • Weight
  • Age
  • Presence of other medical conditions that affect healing times, such as diabetes
  • Smoking habits
  • Commitment and/or motivation towards rehabilitation

Most patients can get back to most of their light activities by 3 months after their surgery.  For patients who participate in heavier activities, full recovery may take another 2-3 months.  However, in rare cases recovery times will be extended if there are complications from the surgery.

What are some possible complications from THR surgery?

  • Blood clots
    • Blood clots can form in your leg veins after the surgery
    • This can be dangerous situations since a piece of the clot can break off and travel to your lung, heart or brain
    • Blood-thinning medication is prescribed to most patients to help reduce this risk
  • Infection
    • Infections can occur at the site of your incision and in the deeper tissue near the new hip
    • Antibiotics are the first line of defense for infections
    • A major infection near the new hardware may require surgery to remove and replace the prosthesis
  • Fracture
    • During surgery, healthy portions of the hip joint may fracture
    • Smaller fractures may heal on their own with time
    • Larger fractures may need pins, wires or metal plates.
  •   Dislocation
    • Certain positions can cause the ball of the hip joint to become dislodged
    • The surgeon will provide precautions for specific movements and/or positions during the first few months to help minimize this risk
    • If the new hip does dislocate, the doctor may fit the patient with a brace to keep the hip in the correct position
    • Surgery will be required to stabilize the joint if the hip joint keeps dislocating
  • Change in leg length
    • It is possible that a new hip can make one leg longer or shorter than the other
    • The surgeon tries to prevent this as much as possible, but it may be caused by a shortening of the muscles surrounding the hip
    • It is important to do the appropriately stretch and strengthen the muscles involved

What is the role of physiotherapy in the recovery after a THR?

Physiotherapy is integral part of recovery after a total hip replacement from the beginning to the end of recovery.  The surgery corrects the anatomical faults of the joint.  However, the surgery on its own will not fix any range of motion or functional limitations.  The body must adapt to a new joint and learn to move and use the new joint as the original.  This change does not happen immediately.  However, starting early with rehabilitation of the new joint will produce a better outcome.  A physiotherapist guides the patient through this recovery.

When do you start physiotherapy after a THR?

  • Most patients will have their hip precautions in place for up to 6 weeks after surgery.  One of the first things that a physiotherapist will do at the hospital is to go over the precautions with the patient so that they fully understand what they are and their purpose.  More specifically, the physiotherapists will teach the patient how to move safely with these precautions in mind.
  • The patient will likely stay in the hospital for 1-2 days, depending on how they are recovering. The physiotherapist will visit the patient once a day during their stay and work on walking with a walker, going up and down stairs and start them on a program to regain their mobility and strength through their hip.
  • When the patient is more mobile and able to leave the home, they are encouraged to seek out physiotherapy in the community. The physiotherapist will re-assess the patient’s hip and design a treatment plan that furthers their recovery.  They may add some manual stretches and mobilizations and progress the exercises.

What can I do to prepare for my THR surgery?

A lot of orthopaedic surgeons are now encouraging surgical candidates to see a physiotherapist several weeks prior to their surgery.  More specifically, this helps to prepare the joint and surrounding muscles for the surgery.  The research shows that going into the surgery with better range of motion and strength results in a better post-surgical outcome.

Overall, total hip replacement surgeries have positive outcomes and most patients do well.  Following a prescribed rehabilitation program designed by a registered physiotherapist is vital in achieving the best results.  The Registered Physiotherapists at our Mississauga, Etobicoke and Oakville locations are ready to help you with your recovery.  Call PhysioNow today to book your appointment!

Physiotherapy Etobicoke

Physiotherapy Etobicoke

Physiotherapy Etobicoke

How do I know what physiotherapy clinic to choose?

Physiotherapy is an important health care service in  Mississauga, Etobicoke and Oakville.  Many people need physiotherapy treatment to help with their pain and recover from their injuries.  Physiotherapy can help improve the quality of life for many people of all ages.

What are the problems that people run into with choosing a clinic?

In large cities like Mississauga, Etobicoke and Oakville, there is a lot of demand for physiotherapy.  As a result, there has been an increased number of clinics.  However, the problem that a lot of people have is that there are too many different clinics to choose from.    Unfortunately, there are quite a few clinics that do not provide good service and care for their patients.  Therefore, it becomes a guessing game as to which ones are actually good.

Things to consider

As someone who has never had physiotherapy before, it’s really hard to know which clinic to choose.  Is it important that it’s close to your home?  Should you choose the one that your family doctor recommends?  Do you ask your family and friends?  What about just searching on google?  There are so many options out there.  However, like many things in our lives, you have to find a good fit between what you need and what the clinic has to offer.

What are some of the characteristics that patients look for in a physiotherapy clinic?

  • Physiotherapists who are properly licensed
  • Multi-disciplinary practice
    • The team includes other health care professionals who complement physiotherapy
    • Examples include massage therapists, kinesiologists, osteopaths
  • Clean and organized
  • Easily accessible location
  • Direct billing to extended health care providers
  • Extended hours available to accommodate patient schedules
  • Pleasant and friendly team to provide a positive patient experience
  • Positive online reviews
  • Community recognition
  • Positive reviews from family and friends

Why choose PhysioNow?

PhysioNow is a company that meets all these characteristics.  The company has been in business for over 15 years and has brought high quality services to the community.  We strive to go above and beyond to offer the best possible care for our patients.

What does PhysioNow Offer?

  • Registered Physiotherapists
    • Our physiotherapists are registered and in good standing with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario
    • The team at PhysioNow is very experienced and able to work with a variety of different injuries, including motor vehicle accidents, workplace injuries and sports injuries
    • Our therapists also have extensive training in specialized areas of practice, including:
      • Concussion Rehabilitation
      • Vestibular Rehabilitation
      • Pelvic Health
      • Acupuncture
      • Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy
      • Neurological Rehabilitation
      • Custom Knee Bracing
      • Custom Orthotics

Multidisciplinary Clinic 

      • All of our clinics are multi-disciplinary and offer both physiotherapy and massage therapy services to our patients
        • A lot of our patients see both our physiotherapists and massage therapists
        • These 2 health care services are complementary, and patients do well with their recovery when both services are incorporated into their treatment plan

Clean and Safe

        • Our clinics are also very clean and hygienic to make our patients feel safe and comfortable
        • We have taken extra Covid-19 precautions to meet all of the province guidelines
          • Firstly, we have installed plexiglass in our office space
          • Secondly, our beds and equipment are all sanitized after each patient
          • Additionally, we have our treatment rooms spread out so there is a safe distance between patients
          • Lastly, our on-site laundry allows us to keep our linens and towels fresh and clean
          • Our physiotherapy assistants do a wonderful job of keeping the clinic sanitized and organized

Easily Accessible  

        • All 4 locations are in easily accessible areas of Mississauga, Etobicoke and Oakville
          • They are close to major intersections and highways
          • All the locations also offer free onsite parking for our patients

Direct Billing  to Insurance Companies

        • PhysioNow also offers direct billing to most insurance companies
          • This is a very convenient service for patients because they do not have to worry about submitting their own claims
          • There are some exceptions depending on the insurance company and the patient’s specific policy
          • But for most patients, the insurance company will pay us directly and that saves the patient from having to pay out of pocket
          • Our staff can help with the details of a patient’s insurance plan

Convenient Hours

          • All the locations also offer convenient hours so that patients can make it work around their busy schedules
              • We have morning and evening hours available
              • The Mississauga locations also offer Saturday hours for those patients who are unable to attend during the week

Positive Patient Experience 

            • One of the biggest compliments we receive at PhysioNow is our commitment to providing a positive patient experience
              • All our staff members including administrators, physiotherapists, massage therapists and physiotherapy assistants are very friendly and outgoing
              • We all try to make every patient feel comfortable and enjoy their treatment experience
          • Positive Patient Reviews

            • All our clinics have great online reviews on Google
              • Our reviews are honest and from current and past patients
              • One of PhysioNow’s biggest source of referrals is through our existing patients who refer their friends and family
              • There is no higher compliment than someone referring their friend or family
              • It is a great sign of their trust in the care and services we provide

Community Recognition 

            • Since there are so many physiotherapy clinics across Mississauga, Etobicoke and Oakville, it is a special honour when there is community recognition
              • Specifically, our Etobicoke location was nominated for a 2019 GEM award
              • We were nominated by our patients who are residents of the Etobicoke-Lakeshore area
              • Unfortunately, we did not win the award, but it was an honour to be nominated and thought of so highly by our patients
              • In addition, our clinics have also been nominated for the Top Choice Awards for 2019 and 2020

Choose PhysioNow

All these wonderful aspects of our company have allowed us to succeed and grow over the last 15 years.  Therefore, we continue to work hard to make sure that we provide the best possible care for our patients.  As a result, our patients see results and finish their course of treatment feeling overall better and stronger.  In conclusion, PhysioNow ensures that our patients are able to get back to their life including home, work and play.

Call today to book your appointment at PhysioNow!

 

 

 

 

 

Physiotherapy Mississauga

Physiotherapy Mississauga

Why choose PhysioNow for Physiotherapy Mississauga?

• Over 16 years of providing top rated Physiotherapy Mississauga
There are 4 convenient locations- Erin Mills, Applewood, Lorne Park and Long Branch

• Awards/nominations? PhysioNow: nominated for a Top Choice Award in 2020.

• A team of highly qualified physiotherapists and massage therapists

All of our physiotherapists and massage therapists have several years of experience in their field and are registered in good standing with the College of Physiotherapy and Massage Therapy.

• Services we offer

Services are provided for all ages and for a variety of conditions. For instance,  our therapists are specialized in several areas including manual therapy, acupuncture, vestibular rehabilitation, concussion , sports injuries, pelvic health and soft tissue techniques.

Physiotherapy Mississauga

Lower Back Pain Treatments

Physiotherapy Mississauga

Donjoy Defiance ACL Repair Brace

Physiotherapy Mississauga

Return To Sport After ACL Ligament Repair

In addition, we  do custom orthotics and braces.  For your convenience, we are currently also offering our physiotherapy services virtually .

• Direct billing available

In addition, Direct billing is available to most of the insurance companies so it is convenient for you.  For instance, we also deal with third party insurers like MVA and WSIB.

• Flexible hours and free parking available

Above all, we are open for extended hours ( ) to help you at a time that is best for you.

What to expect at Physiotherapy Mississauga?

First, you have an assessment with our physiotherapist.  They will do a full check up of the problem area .

Next, the physiotherapist will then prescribe a treatment plan especially for you.

Further, they can also help you understand more about your condition.

We will answer your questions .

Lastly, changes may be made  in your daily routine.

As a result, this will  help you to get better faster.

COVID considerations: We take excellent precautions!

 

• Providing a face mask and use of 70% alcohol hand sanitizer for each patient upon arrival into the clinic

• Installation of sneeze guards at the front desk

• In addition, Sanitization of treatment beds after before each patient use

• Disinfecting commonly touched surfaces between every patient

• Switching out pillowcases with each patient use

• All staff will wear a gown and mask and wash hands between each patient contact

  • Social distancing throughout the clinic.
  • Lastly, no visitors are sitting in reception

If you are in need of Physiotherapy or Massage Therapy, Contact PhysioNow today.

Kevin Durant

Kevin Durant

What happened to Kevin Durant?

Kevin Durant originally injured his calf in early May during the second round of playoff games.  The injury had been labeled a ‘calf injury’ and Durant has not been able to play for over 30 days.  After doing a shoot around with the team, the Warriors made the decision to allow Durant to play for Game 5.  Durant came out strong, scoring 11 points in 12 minutes of play. But things changed as he tried to do a crossover move and had to fall to the floor on the sidelines.  He was grabbing onto his lower right calf, more towards his Achilles tendon. In conclusion, from the replays, it looked like he may have torn his Achilles tendon.

What is the difference between a calf strain and an Achilles tendon tear?

Calf Strain : Did Kevin Durant have this injury?

It is possible that Kevin Durant had a calf strain to start.

The bulk of the calf is made up of 9 different muscles.  Three muscles work together to produce a downward movement of the foot. These 3 muscles attach themselves into the heel bone:

  • Gastrocnemius
  • Soleus
  • Plantaris

Other Muscles of the calf/ foot

The other 6 muscles cause knee, toe and foot movements in different directions.  These muscles are located deeper in the calf area. However, these muscles travel around the sides of the ankle and attach to different parts of the foot and toes.  These muscles are:

  • Popliteus
  • Flexor digitorum longus
  • Flexor hallucis longus
  • Tibialis posterior
  • Peroneal longus
  • Peroneal brevis

Sometimes injuries are labelled incorrectly.  Pain in the calf region is attributed to the first three muscles.  However, a calf strain could involve any one of the 9 muscles mentioned above.  As a result, it is up to the health professional to correctly identify which of the muscles are involved in the strain.

Severity of Calf Strain: What Grade did Kevin Durant have?

In general, a calf strain is caused by overstretching or tearing of the calf muscles.  This type of injury can occur suddenly or over time. The severity of the strain is graded by the amount of muscle damage that has occurred:

  • Grade 1
    • Mild or partial stretch or tearing of a few muscle fibres
    • The muscle may be tender and painful
    • Strength and function are maintained
  • Grade 2
    • Moderate stretching or tearing of a greater percentage of muscle fibres
    • A snapping or pulling sensation may be felt at the time of the injury
    • More tenderness and pain
    • There may be some visible bruising
    • Loss of strength and function
  • Lastly, Grade 3
    • Severe tear of the muscle fibres, commonly a complete rupture
    • A ‘popping’ sound may be heard of felt at the time of the injury
    • There is definite bruising and sometimes there is a visible ‘dent’ in the muscle
    • Severe loss of strength and function

Signs and Symptoms of a Calf Strain

  • A snap, pull or “pop” felt or heard at the time of injury
  • Pain and weakness in the calf area
  • Swelling in the calf area
  • Tightness
  • Bruising
  • Weakness in the calf when doing any weight bearing activities
  • Limping when walking

What is the usual Physiotherapy treatment for a calf strain?

Treatment for a calf strain is like that of any other muscle in the body.  The goals of the treatment include:

  • Reducing pain
  • Improving range of motion of the knee and ankle
  • Improving the strength
  • Speeding up recovery time
  • Returning to activities
  • Preventing re-injury

How long does it take to recover from a calf strain?

The length of time for recovery from a calf strain injury depends on the severity of the injury.  On average:

  • Grade 1: 10-12 days
  • Grade 2: 4-6 weeks
  • Lastly, Grade 3: 6 months after surgery

Achilles Tendon Rupture : Kevin Durant’s final injury

The gastrocnemius, soleus and plantaris muscles unite to form the Achilles tendon.  The tendon is a tough band of tissue that connects these three calf muscles to the heel bone.  When the calf muscles contract, the Achilles tendon is tightened and pulls the heel. As a result, the action allows the foot to be pointed down.  A complete tear of this tendon is called an Achilles tendon rupture.

Signs and symptoms of Achilles Tendon Rupture

  • Sudden and severe pain at the back of the ankle or calf
  • Sound of a loud pop or snap
  • Immediate swelling and weakness
  • Visible bruising and possible denting in the tendon

Treatment options for Kevin Durant’s Achilles Tendon Rupture

  • Non-surgical treatment
    • Rest
    • Crutches
    • Ice
    • Pain medication
    • Immobilisation for the first few weeks with a walking boot and heel wedges
    • Recovery may take longer but risks of surgery are avoided
  • Surgical Treatment

The choice between surgical or non-surgical treatment depends on different factors. A patient’s age, activity level and severity of the injury all play a factor.  In general, younger and more active people, especially athletes, choose surgical repair. In contrast, older and more sedentary individuals usually choose the non-surgical pathway.  In either option, rehabilitation is a lengthy and difficult process to make sure full function is returned.

So, what happened to Kevin Durant?

The Kevin Durant was out for over a month with an initial calf strain.  Due to the amount of time that he was out of the game, it’s likely that he had a grade II strain of his calf.  As a result, his return to the game resulted in a complete Achilles tendon rupture. In review, it makes you wonder whether he was physically able to return to play.  Did he have enough time for recovery from his initial injury to withstand the demands of the game?

Basketball is a sport that has a lot of pivoting, stop and go movements and bursts of high intensity activity.  In conclusion, it is possible to say that judging from how soon into the game the injury happened, that Kevin Durant was likely not fully recovered.

Professional Sports: Decisions for return to play. Should Kevin Durant have returned to play in Game 5?

However, in professional sports, there is a lot of pressure from all fronts to get a star player back in the game.  The team was down 3-1 and having Durant back in the game boosted their confidence and morale. As a result, the fans wanted the Warriors to win.  The organization wanted the team to hold on to their title again. In addition, Kevin Durant himself probably felt terrible that he wasn’t able to play and support his team.  As a result, all of these pressures likely led to the decision for him to play.

Unfortunately, our bodies are not always able to function like we want them to. In Durant’s case, his return to the game led to an even more serious injury, which required surgery.  In conclusion, after surgery he will have to endure a lengthy process of physical therapy and will likely be out for the entire next season.

Return to Play Decisions

This is an excellent example of the importance of return to play decisions.  Regardless of the sport and regardless of the injury, it is vital that the health and well being of the athlete is the top priority.  In conclusion, returning to play too soon isn’t worth risking a more serious injury. Lastly, a more serious injury can affect the athlete’s future participation in the sport.

Physiotherapy Treatment options for Achilles Rupture

If you or someone you know has experienced calf pain or an achilles rupture, our Physiotherapists at PhysioNow are here to help! We have treated many patients with exactly these injuries. Call today to get started on your treatment and get back in the game!

Physiotherapy

Knee Replacement Physio

Knee Replacement Physio
Knee Replacement Physio

What about Knee Replacement Physio?


Knee Replacement Physio is necessary after having surgery. People get knee replacement surgeries because they have a lot of pain and limitations with their knee.  These surgeries are usually for people who have advanced arthritis.    Its important to do proper Knee replacement physio after the surgery to get your knee to a good functional level. 

Check out this video for a bit more information about Knee replacement surgery>https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/247500.php

What happens after the surgery?

You will receive in-patient Physiotherapy at the hospital. You will work on regaining your knee movement. In addition, you will also start with some gentle strengthening exercises.  Physiotherapists at the hospital will teach you how to walk with a walker and go up and down stairs before you are sent home.

What Happens after you go home?

Once at home, you should have homecare Knee replacement physio services that are provided. Usually, a Physiotherapist will visit your home once a week. They will help you to work on progressing your exercises.  However, once all this is completed, there will still be some remaining pain, limitations of movement and strength deficits.

Therefore, it is important to seek out private
Knee replacement physio in the community. This will allow you to continue working on the remaining issues. As a result, this extra Physiotherapy treatment will allow you to achieve full recovery. Our goal is to get you back to all of the things you like to do!

Frequently Asked Questions about
Knee replacement physio

There are usually a lot of questions regarding seeking out additional Physiotherapy services.  It can seem quite challenging to find the right clinic to work with you. However, having all the necessary information will certainly make things a little bit easier!  Here are some of our Frequently Asked Questions:


Do I need a doctor’s referral to see a Physiotherapist in the community?


Registered Physiotherapists are considered to be primary care providers and therefore you do not need a doctor’s referral to receive care.  However, if you have any extended health care (EHC) insurance that covers Physiotherapy treatments, your insurer may need a doctor’s referral to approve the coverage.  If you do have any EHC, then it may be worthwhile to call the company and find out the details of the coverage prior to coming in for your initial appointment. 


Will the treatments be covered by OHIP?

Will the treatments be covered by OHIP?

PhysioNow is a private practice and therefore our services are not covered by OHIP.  We do however accept extended health care insurance. We can bill electronically on your behalf if your plan allows us to do so.  If you do not have any EHC, we can offer a reduced fee to reduce some of the financial stress of receiving treatment.  Please give us a call to discuss this if this applies to you:)

Am I eligible for OHIP Physiotherapy?

To receive physiotherapy services covered by OHIP, you have to attend an OHIP-licensed clinic and you have to meet certain eligibility criteria.

  • 65 years of age and older;
  • 19 years of age and younger; or
  • Recently discharged as an inpatient from a hospital and in need of physiotherapy services. These must be directly connected to the condition, illness or injury for which you were admitted to the hospital.

Our administrative staff can certainly help you with any further questions that you might have.


How fast can I book an appointment at PhysioNow?

Since we have 3 locations in Mississauga, and 1 location in Etobicoke, we can get you in for treatment same day if needed.  We try our hardest to work with your availability.


What should I wear for the appointment?

Since we are assessing your knee, you should bring a pair of shorts so that the knee is easily visible and accessible. 

How long will the first visit take?

The first visit usually takes about 1 hour to complete.  During this visit, your Physiotherapist will meet with you and go through an assessment. As a result, they can fully understand the limitations and restrictions that require treatment.  In addition, your Physiotherapist will also provide treatment that same day. This will include some modalities, hands on therapy, exercise prescription and education.


How long do follow-up visits take?

How long do follow-up visits take?

Your follow-up visits usually range between 45 mins to 1 hour. This depends on how far along you are with your treatment.  Your Physiotherapist will re-assess you after every couple of visits to track any changes. This will allow them to progress your treatment.

How many visits will it take before I am fully recovered?

The number of visits needed to fully recover is different for every patient.  Everyone heals at a different rate. As a result, it is difficult to set out a firm timeline.  In general, the majority of people complete about 8-12 weeks of treatment. As they improve, more and more of the treatment can be completed independently at home.


I know there are 4 different locations of PhysioNow.  Can I book an assessment at one office and then a follow-up at a different office if necessary? ?


Yes, you can definitely have your assessment at one office and your follow up at another office if necessary.  Firstly, we will try our best to book appointments that work best for you. Secondly, if one location works better than another, there is no issue with changing locations.  Lastly, we can send over your treatment file to the other office. As a result, the Physiotherapist seeing you has all the information. In conclusion, we can provide ongoing treatment at any location.

We hope that these FAQs provide you with the information that you are looking for. We hope that you will feel comfortable to choose PhysioNow for your physiotherapy care!

PhysioNow

Lastly, if you or someone you know is planning to have a Knee replacement, we at PhysioNow are happy to help! We have many highly trained Physiotherapists at all of our clinics. Call today to get started! https://www.physionow.ca/

Physio for Car Accidents


Treatment after Car Accidents

Physio for Car Accidents
Physio for Car Accidents

Car accidents are events that no one wants to be in.  Unfortunately, traffic, weather conditions and bad driving result in hundreds of car accidents. These accidents occur daily, such as in Mississauga, Etobicoke and Oakville.  These accidents can range from minor to horrible accidents. As a result, these terrible accidents can cause serious injuries. Thankfully, many of the accidents have few long lasting effects on your health.  However, any accident can really affect your life. Physio for car accidents can help restore your health.

Role of your Car Insurance

There many things you need to do after a car accident. Firstly, you will need to tell your car insurance about the accident. Secondly, you will need to deal with the damages of the vehicle.

Above all, you need to recover from your injuries.  It is important to report the accident as quickly as possible.  As a result, it makes dealing with the car insurance a lot easier. If there are injuries , you can use the car insurance benefits to get physio for car accidents.

You will be assigned an adjuster from your car insurance to help you with your claim. As a result of the injuries, your adjuster will suggest Physio for car accidents.

The adjuster has a list of preferred clinics that provide Physio for car accidents. Many of these clinics will be located in Mississauga, Etobicoke and Oakville.  PhysioNow is a preferred car insurance provider that will be included on the list from your adjuster. 

What to expect at your assessment?

PhysioNow has 4 locations across Mississauga, Etobicoke and Oakville. We receive many referrals from people involved in car accidents. Our front desk staff will call you to book your initial Physio appointment.  When you come in for the assessment, firstly we will get a bit of information about you and the accident.  The role of the clinic administrator is to simplify the process of booking and billing. 

Physio for Car Accidents Plan

Secondly, you will meet with the Registered Physiotherapist. The Physiotherapist will ask about the accident and assess your painful areas.  Once the Physiotherapist has all of the information, they will complete your treatment plan. We will submit this to the car insurance adjuster on your behalf.  This document will outline your injuries, and any medical history. It will also include the number and type of treatments that the Physiotherapist is recommending for you.

Car Accident Physio Options

Your Physiotherapist may also recommend massage therapy or other products to help you get better faster.  The exact timeline of the treatment plan and how many visits are allowed will be dependent on whether the injuries are considered “minor” or “major” by the car insurance company.  The Physiotherapist will be able to decide which treatment guideline that applies to you and they will discuss this with you.  Once the forms are completed, the Physiotherapist will review the contents of the plan with you.

Follow-up Car Accident Physio Appointments

Follow-up appointments will focus on treatment and helping you to get better.  The type of treatment received depends on the injuries. Normally, treatments will be as follows:

Firstly, you will get machines put on that reduce pain.

Secondly, hands on treatment techniques and lastly, exercises for home. 

Recovery from a car accident can take time. The body takes in a lot of stress from the accident. Therefore, these injuries take a long time to heal.  As a result, it is important to stay consistent with your treatment. In this way, the body can benefit the most.  The goal is to help you to return to all of the activities that you were able to do before the accident.


FEES for Physiotherapy/ Massage Therapy after a Car Accident

All fees should be covered for the treatment you receive after a car accident. By law, your Physiotherapy clinic is required to first bill any extended health insurance (EHC) that you may have. Anything that is not covered by your EHC insurance is then passed on to your car insurance. You should never be out of pocket for treatment received for Physio after Car Accidents.

Our Physio clinic administrators will try to take the work out of the billing and paperwork for you! If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident, Please give us at 289-724-0528. At PhysioNow we are ready to help! Same day appointments are often available. We have highly trained Physiotherapists and Massage Therapists at all of our locations.

Physiotherapy for Neck Pain

Physiotherapy for Neck Pain

Physiotherapy for Neck Pain
Neck Pain

Physiotherapy for Neck Pain

Neck pain is a common problem for a lot of people.  Physiotherapy for Neck Pain is one of the top 5 reasons why people go for physiotherapy treatment.  People can get neck pain after many different types of activities.  Some of the most reported examples are:

  • Getting a kink in the neck after a bad night’s sleep
  • Feeling pain in the neck and shoulder area after doing some heavy lifting at home or at the gym
  • Feeling pain in the neck when using the computer for long periods of time
  • Feeling pain in the neck after an accident, such as a fall or motor vehicle accident


Assessment for Neck Pain

Signs and Symptoms

There are many obvious signs and symptoms of a neck injury.  Some of these include:

  • Pain in the neck
  • Restricted movement of the neck
  • Sensations of tightness or stiffness in the neck

There are also some not so obvious signs and symptoms of a neck injury:

  • Pain in the arm
  • Headache
  • Pins & needles in the arm
  • Numbness in the arm
  • Weakness in the arm and/or hand

Patients who experience these symptoms may think that they have an injury to their arm.  They may get worried because of the unusual pins and needles or numbness they are feeling.  However, most of the time these symptoms are coming from the neck.  An experienced physiotherapist will be able to make the connection between a patient’s arm symptoms and their neck pain. 


Treatment for Neck Pain

 

The treatment for neck pain will vary depending on the nature of the injury.  Your Physiotherapist will first start with an assessment to figure out what the problem is.  During the assessment, they will ask some questions about how the pain started.  They will also get details on how the symptoms behave.  Some examples of these questions include:

  • How long have you been feeling your pain?
  • How intense is your pain on a scale from 0 to 10?
  • Was there an incident that started the pain?
  • Where exactly do you feel your symptoms?
  • What kind of symptoms do you feel?
  • What kind of activities make your pain feel worse or better?

In conclusion, answers to these questions will allow your Physiotherapist to understand the nature of your injury.  They will then perform a physical assessment.  Finally, certain physiotherapy tests that will help them further understand your injury. 

Physiotherapy Tests for Neck Pain

  • Movement of the neck and arm
  • Tenderness of the muscles around the neck
  • Sensation of the arm
  • Strength of different muscles in the arm
  • Reflexes of the arm

In conclusion, once your Physiotherapist is done gathering all the information, they can come up with a diagnosis for your neck pain.

Treatment for Neck Pain


Treatment for Neck Pain

Using the information from the assessment your Physiotherapist will develop a treatment plan for you.  The treatment plan will include different methods to reduce your pain and improve your function.  For example, some common Physiotherapy treatment tools at PhysioNow include:


Interferential Current (IFC)

  • This is electrical stimulation that helps with pain management
    • There are 4 pads that are placed around the painful areas of the neck
    • Moreover, the strength of the current is dependent on your comfort level – stronger does not mean better
    • We ask you to indicate when you feel a strong, but comfortable amount of sensation
    • In summary, IFC distracts the body’s pain signals to give relief of pain
    • Lastly, this electrical modality is usually applied for 15 minutes
    • If you are interested in knowing more about Interferential Current Treatment, please check out this article .


Heat therapy

  • Heat is used as another pain management tool
    • As a result, it is usually combined with the IFC so that you can have both at the same time
    • At PhysioNow, our therapists use moist heat packs for heat therapy
    • As a result, moist heat is the most effective form of heat because it allows the heat to get deeper into the tissues
    • In summary, Heat therapy increases circulation, relaxes soft tissues and reduces pain and stiffness
    • In conclusion, heat is usually applied for 15 minutes


Manual Therapy

  • Manual therapy involves “hands-on” treatment by the Physiotherapist
    • As an Example, the most common forms of manual therapy involve soft tissue work, mobilizations and passive stretching
    • Moreover, soft tissue work helps reduce tissue tension and improves circulation in the area
      • There are a lot of muscles around the neck and when there is injury or pain these muscles become tight and stiff
      • This Soft tissue work around the neck is gentle to generally loosen these tissues
      • In addition, soft tissue work can also be very deep to work out specific tissue knots
      • In conclusion, your Physiotherapist will always consider your comfort for these types of treatment

Mobilizations

  • Mobilizations help decrease the stiffness in the joint
    • In short, there are 7 vertebrae in the neck and stiffness can develop at any level
      • Your Physiotherapist can apply different levels of gentle pressure to get the joints of the neck moving

Passive Stretching

  • Passive Stretching helps lengthen tightened muscles
    • For example, some muscles that most often get tight in the neck include the scalenes, upper trapezius, sternocleidomastoid and levator scapula
      • Your Physiotherapist will be able to determine which muscles are tight
      • The stretches are usually held for about 20-30 seconds and repeated 2-3 times


Exercise prescription

  • Exercise prescription
    • In addition, Exercises are an important part of any Physiotherapy treatment
    • Special Exercises that will be given to you depending on your specific neck injury
    • The exercises can help get your joints moving, stretch the soft tissues and strengthen the muscles around the neck
    • Moreover, these exercises will allow you to keep treating yourself on a outside of your Physiotherapy appointments. This speeds up your recovery
    • As a result, we know that patients who perform their exercises on a regular and consistent basis will have the fastest results with their Physiotherapy treatment


Education

  • Education
    • In addition, Education is another important part of Physiotherapy treatment for neck pain
    • If you have a good understanding of your condition and treatment, you will have the best results with your recovery
    • Lastly, an experienced Physiotherapist should be a great teacher
    • For example, your Physiotherapist may suggest that you use a specific pillow for improved sleep, or suggest ways to maintain good posture during work hours

Massage Therapy for Neck Pain

We know that Registered Massage Therapy can also be a very effective treatment for Neck Pain. At PhysioNow, we have many excellent Registered Massage Therapists at all of our clinics.

In conclusion, using these Physiotherapy treatment options produces great results for neck pain.  Your Physiotherapist will work with you to help you achieve the best recovery possible and get back to doing the things you love.

If you or anyone you know is experiencing neck pain, please call today! At PhysioNow, we are ready to help!