Key Information

THE Downtown Sports Clinics are committed to injury prevention and education and offer programs that are individualized and custom designed.


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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):


How long will my first appointment be?

Your first visit for physiotherapy will usually take 45 minutes to an hour to complete, as you will be receiving both assessment and a treatment.

How long do follow up treatments take?

The length of time for treatment depends on the severity and type of your injury. The treatment will take approximately 45 to 60 minutes to complete.

Do I need a Doctor's Referral?

No, you do not require a doctor's referral to attend physiotherapy. However, your insurance carrier may require one with the submission of your treatment receipts.

Does treatment hurt?

Generally physiotherapy treatments are for the relief of pain and improvement of function. However, some techniques may produce discomfort, which should be short lived.

Do the therapists run on time?

Yes, it is our goal to stay on time so that we can deliver treatment in the timeframe that you have available for treatment.

Why do I have to bring a T-shirt and/or shorts?

It allows the physiotherapist to observe and treat the affected area easily. You may need the shorts and T-shirt to exercise in the gym. It saves your day clothes from getting crumpled and wrinkled.

How many times will I have to come for physiotherapy?

Following your assessment, the physiotherapist will discuss your problem and a treatment plan with you. Usually acute injuries need to be treated two to three times weekly and are coupled with an exercise routine. More chronic problems may need treatment less frequently but over a longer time frame.

Why does the government pay for "some" physiotherapy?

At this time, funding for physiotherapy has been reduced and allocated to those who have a fracture, are post-surgical, or are low-income. For more information please contact the Calgary Health Region

What is a WAD?

WAD stands for Whiplash Associated Disorder. Whiplash occurs when the impact in the accident thrusts the head backward and then jerks it forward again. The soft tissues in the neck and upper spine are stretched and torn by the jerking motion, causing inflammation, pain and/or sensations of numbness in the neck and shoulders

What if I do not have health benefits?

You can pay privately or contact the Calgary Health Region to see if you are eligible for funding.

Do you have a gym?

Yes, we have gyms in both clinics. For more information, see Client Gym Use

Do I always see the same therapist?

Yes, unless your physiotherapist is ill or on vacation. In that case another therapist in our organization will be recommended for you.

Do you communicate with my Doctor?

If you have been referred by your physician, progress and discharge reports will be sent. If there are medical concerns from your assessment, your therapist will ask your permission to communicate with your doctor.

Are my treatment records and medical information confidential?

Confidentiality of your information is protected by the New Practice Standards for Physical Therapists in Alberta, January 2005 (www.cpta.ab.ca) and by the Privacy Information & Protection Act (PIPA, www.govt.ab.ca).

I have a referral from my doctor for another physiotherapy clinic but I would rather come to your clinic. Is this possible?

Yes. It does not matter which physiotherapy clinic you go to, as long as the physiotherapists who work there are licensed physical therapists, meaning that the College of Physical Therapists of Alberta regulates them. At THE Downtown Sports Clinics, all of our physiotherapists are licensed with the college. You can be assured of receiving only top quality care from our therapists.

What is Physical Therapy / Physiotherapy?

See 'Physiotherapy'.

How do I get started?

See our Getting Started section.



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