Patient Centre
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before your visit — from insurance billing to what to wear.
Physiotherapy is a hands-on, evidence-based healthcare profession focused on restoring movement, reducing pain, and improving quality of life. At Prana, our registered physiotherapists use a combination of manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, and advanced modalities to help you recover from injuries and manage chronic conditions.
Physical therapists are university-educated professionals licensed to practice in BC. They treat impairments, functional limitations, and disabilities caused by injury, disease, or other causes — and play an important role in prevention, wellness, and education.
Surrey (103-9093 King George Blvd): Monday, Wednesday & Friday 9 am – 8 pm · Tuesday & Thursday 9 am – 7 pm · Saturday 9 am – 3 pm.
New Westminster (420 Columbia St, 4th Floor): Monday – Friday 9 am – 6:30 pm · Saturday 9 am – 3 pm.
Please bring the following to your first visit:
• BC Services Card or valid photo ID • Doctor's referral letter (if you have one — not mandatory) • ICBC claim number and adjuster's contact details (if applicable) • WCB claim number (if applicable) • Extended health insurance card and policy number • Any imaging reports such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans • Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing appropriate for the area being treated
Yes. We direct-bill most major extended health insurers including Sun Life, Manulife, Great-West Life, Blue Cross, and many others. We also direct-bill ICBC and WCB, meaning no out-of-pocket costs for eligible claims. Please bring your insurance card and policy number to your first appointment.
Treatment duration varies by condition. Acute injuries often resolve within 4–8 sessions, while chronic conditions or post-surgical rehabilitation may require ongoing care over several months. Your physiotherapist will give you a realistic treatment timeline after your initial assessment and reassess regularly as you progress.
Initial assessments are typically 45–60 minutes. Follow-up treatments are usually 30–45 minutes depending on your condition and treatment plan. Your therapist will let you know what to expect at your first visit.
No — in BC you can see a physiotherapist directly without a doctor's referral. However, some extended health plans require a referral for coverage, so check with your insurer before your first visit. ICBC and WCB claims do require specific authorization from the relevant body.
Not at all. Physiotherapy benefits anyone looking to improve movement, reduce chronic pain, recover from surgery, manage age-related conditions, or enhance athletic performance. We also provide preventive care and ergonomic assessments for workplace health.
This depends on your specific condition, its severity, and how your body responds to treatment. Your physiotherapist will discuss an estimated number of sessions after your initial assessment and will re-evaluate regularly. Most patients see meaningful improvement within the first few visits.
With your written consent, we are happy to send progress reports to your doctor, lawyer, or any other healthcare provider involved in your care. This is standard practice for ICBC and WCB claims and helps ensure everyone on your care team is kept up to date.
If you feel you are not making progress, please let your therapist know right away. We will reassess your condition, adjust your treatment plan, and if necessary, refer you to another specialist or recommend additional diagnostic imaging. Your recovery is our priority.
Your physiotherapist will track measurable outcomes at each visit — including range of motion, strength, pain levels, and functional abilities. You will notice improvements in your daily activities, reduced pain, and increased mobility as treatment progresses. We set clear goals so you always know where you stand.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being treated. For lower body conditions, shorts are recommended. For shoulder or upper back issues, a tank top or sleeveless shirt works well. Gowns are available in clinic if needed.
Yes — mild soreness for 24–48 hours after treatment is completely normal, especially following manual therapy or exercise. This is similar to post-workout muscle soreness and is a sign your body is responding to treatment. If pain is severe or persists beyond 48 hours, please contact us.
Yes, home exercises are a key part of your recovery. Your physiotherapist will prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition and show you exactly how to perform them safely. Consistency with your home program significantly accelerates recovery and helps prevent re-injury.