FAQs for the ProActive Centre experience
This post is going to summarize some of our most Frequently Asked Questions. These are verified by our Front Desk staff as the queries they get on a regular, sometimes daily, basis. Hopefully this helps answer some things you’ve always wanted to know, or if you are new to our Centre will satisfy your curiosity and encourage you to reach out for an appointment.
1) Do I need a referral from my Doctor to come in?
No - you do NOT need a referral from your MD to make a visit with a Chiropractor. Some services and products, though, may require a Doctor’s note to be covered by your insurance. Best option, if you want to submit your receipts to your insurance company for reimbursement, is to check with them first on the requirements they have. Usually you can look this up online if you have your plan #, or you can call them to confirm. Some examples of products/services that sometimes need a prescription to be covered:
Registered Massage Therapy
Physiotherapy
Custom Foot Orthotics
Medical Devices eg. TENS machine, Braces, rehab equipment.
Summary: you do NOT need a prescription to book an appointment or purchase any medical products from us. You MAY need a prescription if you want to get reimbursed by your insurance for certain items (listed above)
2) Do you Direct Bill Insurance?
As of July 2020, we DO offer direct billing for Physiotherapy services here at the ProActive Centre. This is based on your eligibility, having a signed consent form as well as a valid credit card on file for any extra fees or portions not covered by your insurance. Most companies we are able to Direct bill, however if your company is not on the list it means you may not be eligible for direct billing at this time. Contact us if you would like to review our Eligibility Criteria as well as the list of included Insurance Companies.
We also will attempt to directly bill for you with regards to a Motor Vehicle Accident Claim. Please ask at the front desk if you need clarification.
3) Should I book with Physio or Chiro?
This is a great question that depends on many factors. First, it may depend on the type of injury or pain you’re having. At the ProActive Centre, you will be first assessed by a Chiropractor if you have a new injury, chronic or worsening pain, or an undiagnosed condition. If you are awaiting surgery or recovering from it, or if you need to prepare your body to return to work or sports, it’s best you start with the Physiotherapist. Secondly, this might depend on your coverage eg. if you’ve run out of your physiotherapy benefits you may choose to continue care under one of the chiropractors to extend the use of your insurance. Finally, you may have been referred to see one practitioner vs the other in a case like WSIB, an MVA or from your MD. You can always contact us with the information you have, and we can help you find the right place to get started.
4) Is Massage safe during pregnancy?
Yes - Registerd Massage Therapy is both safe and effective for many of the symptoms that present themselves during pregnancy. We have many soon-to-be mothers who see their massage therapist regularly for back pain, tension, headaches or muscle strains that come up during those 9 months. Sheila Deb, RMT is Certified in Peri-Natal Massage. Phil Rowland is experienced with both children and expectant mothers. They are happy to treat you before, during and after pregnancy. Learn more about Peri-Natal Massage HERE
5) Can I see the Chiropractor during or after pregnancy?
A Chiropractor is an expert in all things musculoskeletal and is well-versed in treating people of all ages, from birth to senior years. Pregnancy is a special time for the body and has different needs than other phases of life. Chiropractic care is recommended for many issues related to pregnancy and post-partum, including sciatica, low back pain, increased headaches, neck or shoulder strain, and more. The techniques used are sometimes different than what you are used to; it’s a gentler approach with stretches or recommendations adapted for the specific peri-natal phase. There are certain techniques that are not recommended if you’re pregnant. PLEASE LET US KNOW if you are (or suspect you are) pregnant. Your Chiropractor will work together with you, your OB or Midwife to address your comfort level, range of motion or any injuries that occur during and after pregnancy. There are even specialty techniques such as Webster that can address issues of pelvic space and non-turning during the last trimester. At this clinic, Dr Taia is familiar with these additional techniques and regularly treats patients throughout pregnancy and beyond.
6) Can my kids see the Chiropractor?
Kids are welcome to see the Chiropractor! Young ones can get injured just like adults, and experience the same pulled muscles, sprained joints or headaches that an adult might get. There are also issues unique to kids, such as growing pains and associated Osgood Schlatter’s. We see many young athletes for sports injuries from hockey, track, basketball etc. We often will check pre-teens for scoliosis as they grow, especially if they have a history of it in the family. We even see babies or pre-school kids for issues unique to them: difficulty with going to the bathroom (infrequent bowel movements), feeding or latching only on one side, dislocated (Nursemaid’s) elbow, and more. When any of these issues arise from a mechanical issue, usually joint or muscle related, we examine and treat them based on their age and the injury. Many techniques are significantly gentler, and we find that children tend to heal much faster than we do as adults. Kids are resilient, and we love to help them move better and grow into healthy adults!
7) Can my Chiropractor help with nutrition?
Your Chiropractor has received similar education to your Medical Doctor with regards nutrition. Many Chiropractors, though, choose to take advanced courses on nutrition, supplements and lifestyle medicine because of our focus of care. Your Chiropractor is a great place to start if you have a concern, eg. weight management, low energy levels, sleep disorders, suspected allergies and more. They will be able to help you decide if you need blood work, or to review your diet and supplements to determine if a change is needed. Some supplements help speed up recovery of injuries as well, and we often discuss this as part of your treatment plan. Dr Taia & Dr Scott are well versed in both diet & supplementation requirements, and are able to help you determine if you should look into specific products. We are also happy to review your diet plan to make sure it lines up with your goals or health needs. We can refer you to the right specialist if necessary eg. Dietician, Naturopathic Doctor, Personal Trainer or MD. Feel free to ask - a healthy diet is a very important part of a healthy lifestyle and your overall wellness.