It's not always easy to choose the right healthcare professional for you. Those who have already experienced physiotherapy know that the 'connection' with their physio, however difficult to describe, is central to the success of the treatment. The physio has many roles: sometimes a listening ear to put us at ease to share our story, sometimes a coach who can motivate us to do our exercises when we feel less inclined, or even a teacher to explain the situation in words we understand, etc. Before you start your search, here are four tips to make sure it's a 'match'!

Four ways to find your ideal physiotherapist:

1- Read their bio on the website

Most physios post a description of their training, education, the conditions they can treat, and often even their interests and hobbies on their website or social media.

When you check their training, you can see if they regularly continue to improve their knowledge (e.g., take one or two courses each year since graduation).

You can also see in which areas they are best trained.

When you consult the list of conditions: keep in mind that as soon as they leave university, all physios can treat all parts of the body, so there is no 'specialist' for the knee, for example. However, some people see certain conditions more frequently and develop an ease with a particular clientele.

By taking a look at your physio's interests and hobbies, if you notice common interests, consider that these will surely be good points to start an authentic conversation and build a pleasant relationship. They will also be better able to understand the specific challenges related to your sport or activity.

2- Read the reviews (on Google and Facebook)

Dig a little deeper than the number of stars, and read the reviews in detail. Perhaps you will recognize your needs in a patient's description of their experience?

You can also pay attention to the qualities that patients highlight in their physios: A listening ear? An excellent communicator? A comforting presence? An effective manual therapist?

Then, think about what YOU would like to find in your physio to find the right fit!

3- Rely on recommendations from your loved ones... but not too much 😉

Your Aunt Louise looooves her hairdresser, but that doesn't mean it's the right one for your tastes and needs. Do you have the same hair? The same look? The same budget? This reflection also applies to physios! Often our loved ones can inform us about the people who have helped them a lot in their journey with pain, and they do not hesitate to recommend them warmly, wanting to help us. A piece of advice: ask them what aspects they appreciated most in the service that was provided to them. Try to get them to describe their experience a little more than: 'it worked for me' or 'I felt better'. This way, you can validate that the aspects that your loved ones have appreciated are also those that you are looking for.

4- Identify your needs and ask questions

We know that the first step is often the most difficult. Don't be afraid to call the clinic to ask your questions! After all, the main role of the customer service coordinators is to inform you well and answer your questions: we are here for that!

Think about what is important to you in your treatment and you can ask for advice when booking your appointment.

Here are some examples of questions you can ask to find your ideal physiotherapist:

NEED

EXAMPLE QUESTION

• Flexibility or evening hours for follow-ups
• Which therapist has evening availability? Many availability options in their schedule?
• Confidentiality / Privacy
• Which therapist works in a closed room?
• Approach (if you have had a good or bad experience in the past, you can indicate what you liked or disliked)
• For example, my previous therapist gave me a lot of exercises and allowed me time to do them at home between visits, I liked that, do you have someone who works like that too?
• Understanding of the specific characteristics of a sport or activity
• Do you have a therapist who is knowledgeable about (e.g., running, tennis, golf...)?
• Feeling listened to and/or reassured
• Which therapist is known for their gentleness and listening skills?
• Feeling motivated, having close follow-up
• Which therapist is known for their dynamism and can make sure I do my exercises?
• Understanding and having what's happening explained to you
• Which therapist most enjoys explaining and teaching their patients?

**Please note: we might be tempted to say that our need is to no longer be in pain, but that... is the role of all physiotherapists 😉. Their ability to help you depends on many factors, but one of the most proven is the connection between therapist and patient.... Hence the need for a good match!

Have you made your choice? Have you made an appointment? Click here to learn everything about how to prepare for your first meeting and get the most out of it!

You can also read the following articles to find out what a physiotherapy assessment or treatment involves.