FAQs

General

• What is physiotherapy?

  Physiotherapy is a medical, hands-on approach to relieving pain and restoring function. Physiotherapists are medical experts in musculoskeletal and neurological conditions and work closely with physicians. Our physiotherapists evaluate your movement patterns, identify the cause of your pain, and work to eliminate it.

  While every patient’s condition and pain is unique, our physiotherapist will use a variety of gentle hands-on techniques, exercises, and equipment to relieve pain quickly and restore your function to optimum levels. The overall goal is to restore pain-free mobility and function and to prevent the injury or pain from recurring.

• How do I know if physiotherapy will help me?

  Working with you and your doctor, we can discuss your options and help determine if physiotherapy will be the right choice for you. Contact us today to discuss your current condition and even set up an appointment if you choose.

• Can I go to any physiotherapy I choose?

  As a patient you have the right to receive physiotherapy at any place you choose. At MEX Physio, you will receive the highest quality care while achieving the results you need.  We pride ourselves on providing a positive, encouraging environment with well-trained, friendly staff. We are confident in our ability to help you reach your goals and live a pain-free life.

• How do I schedule an appointment?

  Our scheduling is easy and we offer a convenient location and appointment times for you. We have morning and evening appointments available to meet the demands of your busy schedule. Call us today or request an appointment.

• What should I bring to my first appointment?

  Please have your prescription and insurance card available when you call. This will allow us to verify your insurance benefits and provide you with an estimate of coverage.

  To bring on your first visit:

  • A prescription (if needed) for physiotherapy from your referring physician, ARNP, or PA.
  • Insurance information (we will make a copy of your card).
  • Print out the patient forms, fill them out, and bring them with you.
  • In case of an automobile accident or worker’s compensation claim, also bring any case manager or insurance adjuster contact names, phone numbers, and claim number.
  • Please arrive 15 minutes early to complete any remaining paperwork, so you can maximize your time in your evaluation.
  • Please wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your problem areas.

• Will it hurt?

  Physiotherapy is not meant to hurt, but to relieve pain. However, as you restore your mobility, pain levels, at times can fluctuate. You might experience some temporary soreness from using muscles that are weakened or recovering. This is a normal response to therapy treatment. Good communication with your therapist will help minimize any discomfort. We want you on your way to quick pain relief and back to normal activities.

• Does insurance cover my treatment?

  Yes, in most cases it does. MEX Physio will be happy to assist in contacting your insurance company and determining your coverage based on your individual policy. For more information, visit our insurance plan page and please do not hesitate to contact our Milton, ON physiotherapy office. We do offer different payment options for your convenience.

• What if I don’t have insurance?

  For patients who do not have insurance, we offer a discounted fee, due at the time of service.

• What type of payment do you accept?

  We accept cash, check, debit card, and credit card. We are happy to discuss payment plan options as well. It is our policy that payment is made at the time of service. Your insurance benefits will be determined before your second visit, and you will be informed of what, if any, payment is necessary on that date.

• What do I wear?

  Dress comfortably with clothes that allow easy access for the therapist to examine your problem areas. For treatments, loose fitting clothes that are comfortable for gentle exercises and supportive sneakers are often good choices to wear.

• How long will my therapy sessions last?

  Typically, the first session lasts for 1 hour . Each session after that may be 30-45 minutes. The amount of time will be based on your specific needs, and your therapist will discuss this with you.

• How many sessions will I have?

  Each patient’s diagnosis is different, so together with your referring physician, your therapist will develop a plan of care that is right for you. Your plan of care and number of visits will be determined during your first visit and explained to you by our physiotherapist.

• What types of education/training do your therapists have?

  Physiotherapists have years of university level training in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology (study of joint movement), neurology, and many of the other medical sciences. Our physiotherapists have graduated from accredited physiotherapy programs and are state licensed. Rest assured, your therapist is well trained to evaluate and treat your condition.

• Do you offer programs for me once I’m better?

  Yes, once you have completed your therapy sessions, your therapist will review your continuing home program.  We can make arrangements to meet you at your gym to work with you on determining what equipment may be beneficial, and what exercises would be helpful in your continued recovery.

• What causes low back pain?

  Low back pain may come from muscle strain, poor posture, disc herniation, arthritis, or nerve irritation. At MEX Physio in Milton, we identify the root cause using a thorough assessment and provide treatments such as McKenzie Method, Active Release Therapy (ART), and corrective exercises for long-lasting relief. Research shows most low back pain is “non-specific,” with multiple contributing factors (Maher et al., 2017). That’s why our comprehensive approach targets movement, strength, and lifestyle habits to prevent flare-ups.

• What is sciatica pain?

  Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve is irritated, causing pain down the leg. Physiotherapists at MEX Physio treat sciatica using McKenzie extension-based therapy, Mulligan mobilizations, nerve gliding exercises, acupuncture, and dry needling, depending on the cause. Symptoms may include tingling, numbness, or weakness in the affected leg. With guided physiotherapy, most patients improve significantly within weeks (Fernández-de-Las-Peñas et al., 2021).

• How does physiotherapy help with low back pain?

  Physiotherapy combines manual therapy, corrective exercises, posture retraining, and pain-relief modalities like acupuncture and shockwave therapy. At MEX Physio, we create personalized treatment plans so patients in Milton recover safely and reduce recurrence. Exercise and education are the most effective long-term strategies (Maher et al., 2017). By helping you build resilience and proper movement patterns, physiotherapy empowers you to self-manage your back health.

•  Is physiotherapy effective for sciatica?

  Yes. Evidence shows physiotherapy is highly effective for sciatica. Our team uses McKenzie Method, spinal mobilization, shockwave therapy, and dry needling to reduce nerve irritation and restore function. Early physiotherapy leads to faster recovery and better function (Fernández-de-Las-Peñas et al., 2021). With consistent treatment, most patients regain normal activity levels without surgery.

• Do I need an MRI or X-ray for low back pain?

  Most people don’t need imaging. Physiotherapists can safely diagnose and treat 85–90% of low back pain without scans. At MEX Physio Milton, we focus on recovery through movement-based therapies unless red flags require referral. Imaging often shows changes unrelated to pain (Maher et al., 2017). Avoiding unnecessary scans helps reduce anxiety and cost.

• How long does it take to recover from back pain?

  Most back pain improves in 4–6 weeks with physiotherapy. Treatments such as ART, dry needling, shockwave therapy, and corrective exercises speed recovery. Recovery time depends on severity, cause, and early treatment initiation (Maher et al., 2017). Staying active ensures better long-term results.

• What exercises are best for low back pain?

  Core stability, hip mobility, and extension-based movements are most effective. Physiotherapists at MEX Physio prescribe McKenzie exercises, corrective strengthening, and functional retraining. Structured exercise programs reduce recurrence (Maher et al., 2017). A personalized plan is more effective than generic routines.

• Can I exercise if I have sciatica?

  Yes. Movement is crucial. Physiotherapists guide safe stretches, McKenzie extension exercises, and nerve glides. Activity promotes blood flow and healing (Fernández-de-Las-Peñas et al., 2021). With guidance, exercise helps prevent chronic nerve irritation.

• Should I rest or stay active with back pain?

  Evidence shows staying active is best. At MEX Physio, we prescribe gentle movement and corrective exercises while using therapies for pain relief. Prolonged rest delays recovery. Activity improves function and reduces recurrence (Maher et al., 2017).

• What are the red flags of back pain?

  Seek urgent care if you have: bladder/bowel issues, severe leg weakness, numbness in the groin, major trauma, or unexplained weight loss. If absent, physiotherapy is safe and effective. Red flags indicate rare but serious causes of pain (Maher et al., 2017). Our team screens carefully to protect your health.

• Can poor posture cause back pain?

  Yes. Poor posture strains spinal discs and muscles. We correct posture with ergonomic coaching, core strengthening, and corrective exercise. Prolonged sitting increases back strain (Maher et al., 2017). Small daily adjustments make a lasting difference.

• Is sciatica permanent?

  No. Most people recover fully with conservative care. Our team uses shockwave, dry needling, and McKenzie therapy to speed healing. Only a minority require surgery (Fernández-de-Las-Peñas et al., 2021). With physiotherapy, most regain normal function.

• Do I need surgery for low back pain?

  Rarely. Less than 10% of cases require surgery. Physiotherapy is effective and prevents the need for invasive procedures (Maher et al., 2017). By committing to treatment, you reduce surgical risk.

• How can I prevent low back pain from coming back?

  Prevention includes core/hip strengthening, regular McKenzie maintenance, ergonomic changes, and ART. Lifestyle strategies like staying active and maintaining healthy weight are essential (Maher et al., 2017). We help you build long-term spinal resilience.

• What lifestyle changes help with sciatica and back pain?

  Staying active, managing weight, correcting posture, reducing stress, and sleeping well are key. Pelvic floor physiotherapy can help with core stability. Combining lifestyle and therapy gives the best outcomes (Fernández-de-Las-Peñas et al., 2021; Maher et al., 2017).

• Is acupuncture or dry needling helpful for back pain?

  Yes. Both reduce muscle tension and improve blood flow. Evidence shows they can provide short-term relief when combined with exercise (Maher et al., 2017). This makes it easier to stay active and recover faster.

• How is physiotherapy for back pain different from chiropractic?

  Physiotherapy emphasizes active recovery—exercise, McKenzie therapy, and mobilization—while chiropractic relies more on adjustments. Evidence supports active strategies for long-term outcomes (Maher et al., 2017). Physiotherapy empowers you with tools to prevent future pain.

• Can physiotherapy help with nerve pain in the leg?

  Yes. We use nerve glides, ART, and McKenzie exercises to reduce irritation. Physiotherapy reduces inflammation and retrains safe movement. Most patients improve with conservative care (Fernández-de-Las-Peñas et al., 2021).

• Why should I choose MEX Physio in Milton for back pain?

  Because we offer evidence-based care: McKenzie therapy, ART, acupuncture, dry needling, shockwave, and corrective exercise. Our approach ensures faster recovery and long-term results. Research supports multimodal physiotherapy programs as the most effective option (Maher et al., 2017).

• How soon should I see a physiotherapist for back pain?

  The earlier the better. Early treatment prevents chronic pain and disability. Research shows that timely physiotherapy reduces costs and speeds up recovery (Maher et al., 2017). Don’t wait until pain worsens—early action leads to better outcomes.

• Can my sciatica move from spine to leg and calf to foot?

  Yes. Sciatica often begins in the lower back and radiates along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the spine through the buttock, thigh, calf, and even into the toes. This “traveling” pain or tingling happens because the nerve is irritated at its root in the spine but sends signals down its entire pathway. At MEX Physio, we use McKenzie exercises, nerve glides, and spinal mobilizations to reduce nerve irritation. With the right treatment, the pain usually retreats back toward the spine—a positive sign that healing is taking place.

• Why is my foot numb with my low back pain?

  Numbness or tingling in the foot usually means a spinal nerve is being compressed or irritated, often by a disc bulge, swelling, or tight muscles. This is common with sciatica and disc-related back pain. If ignored, numbness can progress to weakness, so it’s important to get it checked early. Physiotherapy helps by correcting posture, decompressing the irritated nerve, and restoring healthy movement through targeted exercises and manual therapy. This speeds up recovery and prevents long-term nerve damage.

• Why does my back hurt when I cough or sneeze with sciatica?

  When you cough, sneeze, or even strain, the pressure inside your spine increases for a split second. If a nerve root is already irritated—such as in sciatica or a disc herniation—this added pressure can cause a sharp pain or shooting sensation in the back or down the leg. While it sounds alarming, it’s a common symptom of nerve involvement. Our physiotherapists identify these patterns and then use proven strategies like McKenzie therapy, manual mobilization, and posture retraining to reduce pressure on the nerve so coughing and sneezing no longer trigger pain.

• Can my bladder and bowel movements be affected with sciatica?

  In very rare but serious cases, severe compression of the nerves in the lower spine (called cauda equina syndrome) can affect bladder or bowel control, or cause numbness in the groin. This is a medical emergency that needs immediate hospital care. The good news is that most cases of sciatica do not reach this level. At MEX Physio, we always screen for these “red flag” symptoms during your assessment. If they’re not present, physiotherapy is safe, effective, and the right choice for your recovery.

• How effective is McKenzie treatment for spine pain or sciatica? Is McKenzie extension the only exercise taught?

  The McKenzie Method is one of the most researched physiotherapy techniques for back and sciatic pain. Its main strength is in “centralizing” symptoms—meaning it helps pain that has traveled down the leg to move back toward the spine, which is a sign of improvement. Many people think it’s only about doing extension (back-bending) exercises, but that’s not true. The method includes flexion, side-gliding, posture correction, and individualized strategies based on how your pain responds. At MEX Physio, we tailor McKenzie therapy to your unique condition, which makes it far more effective than a “one-size-fits-all” routine.