Frequently Asked Questions
How can I prepare for my first appointment?
Prior to your first appointment at Advanced Pelvic Physiotherapy Centre, you will receive various questionnaires that will help your therapist gain an in-depth understanding of your past and present symptoms. Please complete these at home prior to your first appointment so your therapist has a good understanding of your history.
What can I expect at my first appointment from my Physiotherapist?
On your first visit, your therapist will complete a comprehensive physical evaluation which, depending on the nature of your symptoms, may include an internal examination. Pelvic floor
muscles are located internally and support many internal organs. The muscles, nerves and associated connective tissues can only be accessed through a gentle internal vaginal and/or rectal examination. Please note that you will be draped appropriately to have your modesty preserved to the highest degree. Your therapist is trained in how to complete this examination with minimal discomfort to you. Other parts of the assessment may include, but may not be limited to:
Other parts of the assessment may include, but may not be limited to:
• Evaluation of posture
• Breathing patterns
• Sensitivity of the nervous system
• Skin inspection
• Spinal evaluation
• Pelvic girdle evaluation
• Hip evaluation
• Coordination of movement
• Nerve mobility
• Connective tissue evaluation
• Global and local tone and strength
• Functional testing
• Evaluation of posture
• Breathing patterns
• Sensitivity of the nervous system
• Skin inspection
• Spinal evaluation
• Pelvic girdle evaluation
• Hip evaluation
• Coordination of movement
• Nerve mobility
• Connective tissue evaluation
• Global and local tone and strength
• Functional testing
Will my treatment ever be performed by someone other than my physiotherapist?
At Advanced Pelvic Physiotherapy Centre, we do not use physiotherapy assistants. Your therapist will be fully responsible for your treatment for each and every appointment.
How long will it take for me to complete my treatment?
There is a wide range in the length of treatment durations. Depending on the nature of your condition, the treatment duration may be as little as one or two visits or require many months of treatment. Your therapist will have a better idea following your initial evaluation of approximately how long your course of treatment will take.
Do you bill my insurance company directly?
No, we do not bill extended health insurance providers directly. We will provide you with a receipt following your appointments which you can submit to your extended health insurance provider for reimbursement, based on your coverage.
What happens if I have my period when I’m scheduled for an appointment?
Rest assured your therapist is very accustomed to treating women during their menstrual cycles. There is no reason not to attend your appointment because you are menstruating.
Why are there so many questions in the intake form about my mental health?
To ensure your concerns are treated appropriately, we take a biopsychosocial approach with all of our patients. While many of these questions may not seem relevant to you, your therapist is gathering important data to be considered in your treatment plan based on your stress, anxiety, among others. If you feel that any questions are irrelevant to your condition, please just leave them blank.
Do I need a do prescription or referral?
No prescription is required for Pelvic Physiotherapy ( please see Fees and Referrals). The only time a prescription is required is if your insurance company requires that pelvic physiotherapy is prescribed by a physician for you.