Do I need a referral to access physiotherapy services?
Physiotherapists are direct access practitioners, meaning a referral to see a physiotherapist is not required. However, if you are claiming therapy through your extended health care plan, a referral may be required by your provider, so it is best to check the particulars of your plan. Also, if you are accessing physiotherapy through Ontario Publicly-Funded Physiotherapy program, you DO require a physician or nurse practitioner referral to access care.

How is Interdisciplinary Health Care offered through the clinic different than Multidisciplinary Health Care?
The main difference between these two approaches is that in Interdisciplinary care models health providers, like physiotherapists, physicians and massage therapists, practice the different skills and services of their professions within the umbrella of a team, in order to help you recover. A team approach with strong communication and common goals are present around your health care, with YOU the patient at the heart of the team. In multi-disciplinary health settings, different health disciplines may function independently and "do their own thing" without ongoing communication between different providers in care circle of care. At Fairway Physiotherapy, we strive to offer you integrated services around your needs and your unique goals. 

I understand that some physiotherapy services may be covered under Ontario Publicly-Funded Physiotherapy Care?
This limited public funding is unique, and is not considered the same as OHIP-funded physiotherapy care. Under this program, patients may be eligible if they are experiencing acute (new/recent) pain or acute change in function, or an acute flare up of a chronic problem. They key is the program is designed by the province to assist those in acute distress. With this in mind, there are also specific criteria to enter into the program. These include: 

• 65 years and older or 19 years and younger,
• on ODSP or Ontario Works coverage,
• post-hospitalization >1 day (for the site of referral)

Please contact us to inquire if you feel that you may be eligible for the program. Patients meeting these criteria are also able to access physiotherapy services under their extended health plans or private pay should they wish instead. 

I have heard about IMS (Intra-Muscular Stimulation) Acupuncture, but how is this different from Acupuncture that I may have received before?
IMS is a relatively modern extension of acupuncture practice and Western Medicine. It was developed by Dr. C. Gunn, MD in British Columbia. It involves the insertion of acupuncture needles into shortened bands of muscle, often termed trigger points rather than traditional acupuncture points, in order to both help diagnose and to treat chronic pain. The insertion of the needle triggers a micro-bleed process in the muscle and results in a healing process being created. The muscle normally "twitches" which most patients do not report as painful, but surprising as this in involuntary. The needle does not stay in for lengthy periods of time, such as in traditional acupuncture. Once removed, patient report that the needled muscle is somewhat "achy" or "fatigued" afterwards, similar to the sensation a muscle has after it is worked with exercise. Most patients do not report pain with this technique but instead are surprised by the muscle contraction. It can be an effective method of helping to manage chronic muscle or nerve-related pain, muscular-type headaches, shoulder pain, back and neck pain. 

What are the Differences Between Physiotherapy, Chiropractic, and Occupational Therapy?
Here's a quick guide to help you understand each of these important health professions:
1. Physiotherapy
​Focus: Restoring movement, strength, and function.

• Common Conditions Treated: Sports injuries, post-surgery rehab, chronic pain, arthritis, and neurological conditions.
• Techniques Used: Exercise therapy, manual therapy, pain control modalities, and education.
• Primary Goal: Improve mobility, prevent further injury, and promote overall physical health.

Example: A physiotherapist might help an athlete recover from a torn ligament through targeted exercises and strength training.
2. Chiropractic Care
Focus: Spinal alignment and nervous system health.

• Common Conditions Treated: Back pain, neck pain, headaches, and joint issues.
• Techniques Used: Spinal adjustments, manual manipulations, and posture correction.
• Primary Goal: Relieve pain, enhance body function, and improve alignment.

Example: A chiropractor may adjust the spine of someone suffering from chronic lower back pain to restore proper alignment and reduce discomfort.
3. Occupational Therapy
Focus: Enhancing daily life and independence.

• Common Conditions Treated: Physical, mental, or developmental conditions affecting daily activities.
• Techniques Used: Functional training, assistive devices, and adapting environments.
• Primary Goal: Help individuals regain independence in tasks like cooking, dressing, or working.

Example: An occupational therapist might work with a stroke survivor to relearn motor skills needed for dressing or using utensils.
Key Differences:

• Physiotherapy: Focuses on movement and physical recovery.
• Chiropractic Care: Specializes in spinal health and pain relief.
• Occupational Therapy: Centers on adapting and thriving in daily activities.

These therapies often complement each other, making it easier to achieve comprehensive care for your unique needs. Explore what works best for your goals and lifestyle!