The following answer is a quote from the Physical Therapy listing in Wikipedia.
Physical therapy or physiotherapy (often abbreviated to PT) is a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialty that remediates impairments and promotes mobility, function, and quality of life through examination, diagnosis, prognosis, and physical intervention (therapy using mechanical force and movements). It is carried out by physical therapists (known as physiotherapists in most countries)
Physiotherapists are highly educated experts in physical function, movement, and mobility - we get you moving and keep you moving! We have advanced knowledge of how the human body moves and how to keep that movement pain free. Physiotherapists use specialized hands-on treatment to restore, maintain, and maximize optimal function and quality of life.
At Banff Physical Therapy and Sports Injuries Clinic, our physiotherapists are qualified to treat any problems related to the musculoskeletal system and the nervous system.
Here are examples of the conditions we can treat for you:
During your first appointment, our physiotherapist will conduct a thorough assessment to find the origin of your problem and make a possible diagnosis and establish with you a treatment plan. Your physiotherapist will spend some time to educate you on your condition and they will also provide a first treatment.
With direct access to physiotherapy services in Alberta, you do not need a doctor’s referral. However, your extended health care benefit plan might require a referral to provide reimbursement. For work related you do require a doctor’s referral to access physiotherapy. Your physiotherapist might also suggest you see your physician for further investigations or specific tests.
First of all, you should bring comfortable clothing giving easy access to the body part that will be assessed. You should also bring your doctor’s referral if one was provided to you. For payment purposes, bring your insurance information or any forms required to be filled by us. For work related accidents, bring your WCB claim number and your work contact info.
Each treatment usually lasts between 45 and 60 minutes.
We require a 12 hour notice for cancellation. Your appointment time is reserved for you and if you fail to show up or cancel your scheduled appointment without adequate notice we charge a $30 fee.
Most extended health care plans do provide some coverage for physical therapy and massage. Our administration staff is familiar with the more common employer benefit plans in the Bow Valley and can assist with your questions regarding coverage. Depending on your insurance company, you may have to contact your insurance company directly to find out your benefit requirements and limits. We make every effort to bill directly to extended health care companies (when that company allows it) to minimize the out of pocket expense of rehabilitation, however you may still be responsible for some of the cost.
At present, the following are covered by Alberta Health Services: