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When pain persists longer than expected after an injury, it is important to assess all possible factors that may cause the pain to linger. Persistent pain is often more challenging to treat than acute pain, but treatment can result in significant pain relief as the underlying causes are addressed.
The treatment components will depend on the results of the assessment. Photobiomodulation is a great tool to address pain from any injuries or inflammation. Physical exercise is almost always recommended and is tailored to the person’s ability. Further treatment approaches are explained in the Healing Rivers Pain Program .
Bio-psycho-social approach means that the treatment and management does not only target one of the many complex factors that may contribute to pain. It looks at the whole person. Some issues have their origin in biological or physical processes. Sometimes pain is enhanced by stress or anxiety or depression. Sometimes, socio-economic circumstances may put people at a disadvantage, further impacting their recovery from pain. Everything from how our body works, relationships, sleep, work and leisure affects pain and is affected by pain. The bio-psycho-social approach may help a person identify possible contributors to their pain and helps them set and reach goals to regain some control in their lives.
There are two phases with regard to this type of treatment:
If you are experiencing swelling, phase 1 is where the treatment starts; if there is no or light swelling, then treatment will begin at phase 2. The first phase is quite intensive and may include several appointments per week for about two to four weeks. Sonja will take measurements weekly to determine when a maintenance compression garment can be fitted. Once the garment is ready, the second, or maintenance phase starts. In the maintenance phase the lymphedema is stable and controlled, and you are able to manage it by yourself. You may also choose to undergo clusters of manual lymph drainage treatments in the maintenance phase, to further improve lymph drainage and skin condition.
Depending on your symptoms during or following cancer treatments, we will discuss a treatment protocol that will work for you. This might address issues related to pain, swelling, functional movements, range of motion, and fatigue. Cancer rehabilitation will come in the form of exercise recommendations, prevention and treatment of swelling, and pain management. It is always the goal to empower the person to manage their health condition independently.
Treatments related to chronic pain, cancer, and lymphedema usually take about one hour, but may be shorter, depending on the person’s tolerance and circumstances.
Photobiomodulation treatments differ in length depending on the area(s) to be treated. They range between 20 and 90 minutes.
This again, depends on the condition. This will be discussed following the first assessment.
You don’t need a doctor’s referral to receive an assessment and treatment by a registered physiotherapist. However, some extended medical plans require a doctor’s referral to cover the visit according to your plan.
At the office, full payment is expected following each treatment. Although cash or cheque is preferred, we also accept debit and credit cards. If you have extended medical insurance we can bill your insurance directly or you can claim a portion or all of the cost from your insurance provider, depending on your coverage.
For home visits and any garment or other product orders, you can pay with e-transfer, cash or cheque. Extended medical insurance claims will have to be submitted by the patient. Please note that the therapist requires a prescription from the doctor when compression garments are purchased.
Please come 10-15 minutes early for the first appointment as you will be asked to fill out an intake form.
The appointment time is usually about one hour during which the therapist takes your medical history and conducts a physical examination. Your goals and treatment options will be discussed. Together, you and your therapist will develop a treatment plan.
The initial appointment may also include customized exercise and hands-on therapy.
Please bring your Care Card, the doctor’s referral and if you have one or other diagnostic test results, and wear comfortable clothing. You may want to bring your own shorts, tank top, etc., depending on the area to be treated, although we can provide gowns and shorts.
Please give us 24-hour notice if you cannot attend your appointment. If 24-hour notice is not provided, we charge a $20 fee for missed appointments.