Soft tissue release is the physical action of the release of muscles and other soft tissue to help return the tissue to its normal length and function. Soft tissue release includes hands on treatment by the therapist to release the tissues or using an instrument to assist in the release of the tissues (eg. foam roller, Graston). There are many different types and methods of soft tissue release available and your therapist will be able to assess your injury and include the best type of soft tissue release for your injury.

Physiotherapists often refer to and utilize “modalities”.  This is our nickname for electro-physical agents that we often use to decrease pain, inflammation and muscle tone and help increase circulation to the tissue.  The modalities commonly seen in our clinics are Ultrasound (a type of sound wave that produces vibration), TENS and IFC (mild electrical current), hot packs, cold packs, muscle stimulation and acupuncture.  Although these types of treatments are useful as mentioned, they do not encompass the complete approach to rehabilitation.  We use our modalities to help control pain, inflammation and muscle spasm so that the patient can begin to move again. These modalities are used as an adjunct to an active treatment approach, rather than a primary focus of treatment.

Traditionally, physiotherapists use taping techniques to stabilize joints.  We often tape wrists and ankles, providing extra support to allow athletes to return to participation without pain and with a little more confidence.

More recently, therapists have been using various types of tape not just to stabilize a joint, but to give postural feedback, to help diagnose problems and to unload overused structures to help provide function to that joint or area of the body.  If taping is useful and has to be utilized long-term we will often investigate the practicality of a brace or orthotics. However in cases where taping may be used for a short period while the body’s structures and muscles adapt and strengthen, using the treatment being prescribed by the therapist.

 

The College of Physical Therapists of British Columbia defines acupuncture as

the use of fine gauge, dry needles that are inserted into the body at specific points selected as determined by meridian and chi theory. Dry needling refers to the use of fine gauge, dry needles that are inserted into the body at specific points based upon segmentally myofascial, trigger points theory. Dry needles are solid, thin needles that have no ability to inject or withdraw fluid.

At Trailside Physio, acupuncture is practised by our physiotherapists, trained and certified by the Acupuncture Foundation of Canada, to relieve pain or for therapeutic purposes.

Manual Therapy is used by physiotherapists to assess, diagnose and treat selected neuromusculoskeletal disorders. Physiotherapists use a hands on approach, physically moving the patient to restore optimal motion and function and/or reduce pain.

Hands on approaches in Manual Therapy include:

• ART
• Chiropractic Therapy
• Joint Manipulation / Mobilization
• Massage Therapy
• Soft Tissue Release

Orthopedic physiotherapy is the diagnosis, management and treatment of injuries and conditions associated with the musculoskeletal system. These are the most common types of injuries which include muscle strains to ligament sprains. This also includes pre and post rehabilitation after surgery or fractures. Some of the most common injuries treated come from overuse, sports injuries, postural dysfunction and muscle imbalances.

It can be generally accepted that there are efficient ways to move and there are inefficient ways to move.  Efficient movement leads to longevity and improved performance. Inefficient movement leads to breakdowns, injury and missed days of participation.

Conversely, injury leads to inefficient movement patterns.  Breaking this cycle of injury and poor movement is paramount in the long-term career of physical activity.  Although the resolution of pain is tantamount to physiotherapy treatment, restoration of normal movement patterns is the ultimate goal of therapy.

Our therapists are trained to perform a detailed movement assessment to identify the source of the problem and the root cause of that problem.  This approach helps prevent the recurrent injuries that are all too common.  Utilization of the SFMA (http://www.functionalmovement.com), creates a reliable baseline to monitor progress over the course of treatment and allows us to monitor the athlete over the course of the season.  This baseline facilitates communication amongst the therapists, athletes, coaches, parents and trainers.

 

What is a Physiotherapist?

Physiotherapists diagnose, manage, treat and help prevent many physical problems caused by illness, disease, sport or work-related injury, aging, and long periods of inactivity. The physiotherapists you see at Trailside are movement specialists that hold university degrees in Physical Therapy.

What can I expect from my Physiotherapy Appointment?

During your first visit with a Trailside physiotherapist, you will be professionally assessed for injuries and root causes of pain or movement inabilities.

The physiotherapist will then come up with a recommended treatment approach. Treatments may include the use of manual techniques (hands-on), modalities (machines) and focused exercise prescription. Some Physical Therapists may add additional, complementary techniques to your recovery program such as Acupuncture or IMS (Intramuscular Stimulation).

What issues can a Physiotherapist Treat?

Some examples of ailments that a physiotherapist can assist in treating are:

• Sporting injuries such as ligament tears and dislocations
• Rehabilitation after a bone break
• Chronic pain in back and neck
• Stroke recovery
• Impaired balance and dizziness
• Re-building strength and movement after surgery

What are the benefits of Physiotherapy?

The benefits of seeing a Physiotherapist include:

• Improved mobility and movement
• Reduction or elimination of pain
• Potential to avoid surgery
• Improvement of balance
• Prevention of further or future injury
• Education to manage conditions

Do I need a referral to see a Physiotherapist?

In BC, you do not need a doctor referral to see a Physiotherapist.

If you have an extended health provider, the insurance company may require a referral for reimbursement, but this would be dependent on your plan.

The good news is, Trailside offers direct billing to most insurers!

Why should I book a physiotherapy appointment at Trailside Physio?

Our physiotherapists bring their own unique approach, influenced by their sporting and educational background. At Trailside Physio, you can be assured that you will be listened to, you will be professionally assessed, and your treatment plan will be unique to you and your needs.

Contact us today to book your assessment – we look forward to welcoming you and helping you get back to living a pain-free life!

Now booking online with select therapists!

 

 

We have a diverse set of health care professionals who specialize in many popular therapies including physiotherapy, massage therapy, chiropractic therapy, active release technique, soft tissue release, acupuncture, taping and more.

Select a therapy from the menu to learn more.