Frequently Asked Questions2021-11-28T23:07:08-05:00
Is it safe to have a massage during pregnancy?2021-05-12T23:05:57-04:00

Yes!  Massage therapy is safe and effective during all stages of pregnancy.

Do you use a pregnancy pillow for massage?2021-05-12T23:04:08-04:00

A pregnancy pillow is a foam pillow with cut outs in the foam to accommodate for your breasts  and belly.  We choose not to use a pregnancy pillow for a few different reasons.  Firstly, everyone’s body shapes are different, and forcing your body to fit into the predetermined cut outs is not always comfortable.  Secondly, being facedown puts additional gravitational pressure on the belly, causing it to be pulled downwards.  To maximize comfort and safety, we choose to keep clients in side-lying during pregnancy, bolstered by lots of additional pillows, custom adjusted to fit your body.

What happens during a pelvic floor physiotherapy session?2025-10-10T11:03:35-04:00

Your first session is gentle, private, and focused on understanding your body’s recovery. We’ll talk through your delivery, symptoms, and goals, then assess your posture, breathing, core, and pelvic floor function.
If an internal exam is appropriate, we’ll explain everything and get your consent — it’s always your choice.

Being post-partum, my breast are uncomfortable. What options do I have?2021-05-12T23:03:24-04:00

Massage therapy around the breast tissue can be extremely effective for blocked ducts, painful letdown, lymphatic drainage, muscular tightness, and tension.

One of the best things about being post-partum is being able to lie on your stomach for a massage again!  We recommend feeding or pumping before a massage session to ensure maximal breast comfort. If you are still uncomfortable lying on your stomach, lying on your back or side, bolstered by lots of pillows are both great options as well.

Can I come in if I had a C-section?2025-10-10T11:04:27-04:00

Absolutely. Even after a C-section, your pelvic floor and core go through major changes during pregnancy. Physiotherapy can help with scar healing, posture, breathing, and abdominal strength — all of which support pelvic health and comfort.

What can I expect from a pre-natal massage visit?2021-02-11T14:18:23-05:00

Please view our video on pre-natal massage here

What symptoms can pelvic floor physiotherapy help with?2025-10-10T11:05:19-04:00

Pelvic floor physiotherapy can help with:

  • Leaking urine (with coughing, sneezing, or exercise)

  • Pelvic or vaginal heaviness (prolapse)

  • Pain with sex or pelvic discomfort

  • Diastasis recti (abdominal separation)

  • Core weakness or low back pain

If you’re unsure, we can help assess what’s going on and guide you to the right treatment plan.

Do you serve patients from Pickering, Scarborough, and Stouffville?2025-10-14T11:40:28-04:00

Yes. We have been known to be a “Destination Clinic” as we have clients travel from as far as Barrie! Our Cornell clinic on Bur Oak Avenue is conveniently located for residents of Scarborough, Pickering and Markham’s east end, including Cornell, Greensborough, Wismer, and Stouffville.

Our Clinic is only:

  • 1 minute from Markham Stouffville Hospital (Oak Valley Health)
  • 9 minutes from Greensborough
  • 13 minutes from Downtown Unionville
  • 17 minutes from Whitchurch-Stouffville
  • 20 minutes from Shops at Pickering City Centre
  • 20 minutes from the Pan Am Sports Centre in Scarborough
Where is your Cornell clinic located and is parking available?2025-10-14T11:44:52-04:00

We’re located at 3338 Bur Oak Avenue in Cornell, near 9th Line and Highway 7. Free Street parking is available outside our front door, and the clinic is easily accessible for residents throughout East Markham.

Why choose Markham Pelvic Health – Cornell?2025-10-14T11:58:32-04:00

Our Cornell clinic provides a calm and welcoming space, featuring highly trained pelvic physiotherapists who specialize in pelvic health. Local physicians and midwives trust us for postpartum and pelvic floor care.

What conditions do you treat at the Cornell clinic?2025-10-14T12:01:08-04:00

We provide pelvic floor physiotherapy for pelvic pain, incontinence, prolapse, postpartum recovery, diastasis recti, and other pelvic floor concerns for both women and men.

What conditions do you treat at the Woodbine (GTA East) clinic?2025-10-14T13:54:43-04:00

We provide pelvic floor physiotherapy for pelvic pain, incontinence, prolapse, postpartum recovery, diastasis recti, and other pelvic floor concerns for both women and men.

Why choose Markham Pelvic Health – Woodbine (GTA East)?2025-10-14T13:55:40-04:00

Our Woodbine clinic provides a calm and welcoming space, featuring highly trained pelvic physiotherapists who specialize in pelvic health. Local physicians and midwives trust us for postpartum and pelvic floor care.

Where is your Woodbine (GTA East) clinic located and is parking available?2025-10-14T13:59:30-04:00

We’re located at 202-7155 Woodbine Ave, near Woodbine and Steeles. We are right off the Highway 404 office with ground-level parking available for our clients. The building is wheelchair accessible and equipped with an elevator.

Do you serve patients from North York, Scarborough, and Richmond Hill?2025-10-14T14:07:43-04:00

Yes. We have been known to be a “Destination Clinic” as we have clients travel from as far as Barrie! Our clinic on Woodbine Avenue is conveniently located for residents of Richmond Hill, Markham, North York and Scarborough.

Our Clinic is only:

  • 1 minute from Highway 404
  • 10 minutes from East Bever Creek, Richmond Hill
  • 10 Minutes from North York General Hospital, North York
  • 15 minutes from Downtown Unionville
  • 15 minutes from Scarborough Town Centre
What if I’m on my period? Do I need to cancel my appointment?2025-10-10T08:56:10-04:00

Our Pelvic Floor Physiotherapists are able to treat and assess your pelvic floor even if you are on your period. Did you know that it can actually be beneficial to your treatment since the pelvic floor muscles and organs are influenced by hormonal fluctuations? If a condition you are experiencing changes based on your cycle, it could actually be a benefit to come in during your period.

What is Pediatric Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy2025-10-15T14:20:26-04:00

Pediatric pelvic floor physiotherapy helps children and teens who experience bladder, bowel, or pelvic muscle issues. It focuses on teaching your child how to properly relax and strengthen the muscles that control peeing, pooping, and posture.
Treatment is gentle, engaging, and customized to your child’s age and comfort level — helping them build lifelong healthy habits in a supportive environment.

What Conditions Do You Treat?2025-10-15T14:22:45-04:00

Our Pediatric Pelvic Health Physiotherapists support children with:

  • Bedwetting (nocturnal enuresis)

  • Daytime wetting or urinary urgency

  • Constipation and painful bowel movements

  • Stool withholding

  • Pelvic or abdominal pain

  • Delayed toilet training

  • Post-surgical recovery or conditions affecting bladder and bowel control

Every child is different — we create a personalized treatment plan that addresses the root cause, not just the symptoms.

What Happens During the First Appointment?2025-10-15T14:28:19-04:00

The first session includes:

  • A relaxed conversation about your child’s bladder, bowel, and toileting habits

  • Review of medical history and daily routines

  • Gentle physical assessment (external only) to look at posture, breathing, and muscle coordination

  • Education for both child and parent on how the pelvic floor works

  • A clear, step-by-step home program

Our goal is to make every visit comfortable, fun, and empowering.

Will my child need to undress or be touched?2025-10-15T14:30:24-04:00

Assessments are always age-appropriate and based on your child’s comfort. Most evaluations are external and focus on observing movement, breathing, and posture.
We never perform internal exams on children. Everything is explained beforehand and done with the full consent of parents.

How Does Physiotherapy Help with Bladder or Bowel Problems?2025-10-15T14:32:14-04:00

Many children’s bladder and bowel issues are caused by muscle coordination difficulties — they may tighten when they should relax.
Through education, exercises, and biofeedback, physiotherapy teaches the body to regain control, improves posture and breathing, and reduces anxiety around toileting.

What Ages Do You Work With?2025-10-15T14:33:29-04:00

We work with children aged 4 to 18.
Younger children are typically seen if toilet training is challenging or if a healthcare provider recommends early intervention.

My Child Feels Embarrassed — How Do You Handle That?2025-10-15T14:37:32-04:00

Feeling shy or embarrassed is totally normal!
Our therapists are experienced with children and teens and use age-appropriate language, humor, and privacy to make sessions positive and empowering.
We want your child to feel confident, safe, and supported.

What should I expect from my first assessment and visit?2021-11-15T16:43:41-05:00

Pelvic health concerns can be embarrassing and difficult to discuss. Assessment and treatment takes place in a private treatment room where you will discuss your current symptoms and detailed medical history.  It includes an assessment of the low back, hips, bony pelvis, and an internal examination of the pelvic floor structures (where applicable).  Internal assessment of the pelvic floor is the gold-standard method to determine an accurate clinical picture and for appropriate treatment planning.

Treatment programs are individually tailored to your specific goals, needs, and areas of concern.  The number of sessions it may take you to get better will vary from person to person, but you can except to feel some improvement in symptoms in a few sessions.  Weekly sessions are generally recommended at the onset of a treatment program.

Treatment will consist of a variety of home exercises, self-management strategies, and hands-on treatment.  In some cases, additional therapeutic devices may be recommended to help augment your treatment.  This is may include electrotherapeutic devices such as Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve stimulation (TENS), biofeedback, Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS), or devices such as vaginal accommodators/dilators.

I already see a Physiotherapist. Why Choose Markham Pelvic Health?2023-03-23T16:53:31-04:00

Pelvic floor physiotherapists have specialized, post-graduate training in addition to their Physiotherapy degree, allowing us to assess each case from a different perspective.  Additionally:

  • We are the clinic of choice for many of Markham-Stouffville Hospital’s Urologists, Gynecologists, Obstetricians and family doctors.
  • We have a great reputation and are well-known through the Markham area and among many community groups.
  • We offer comprehensive and individualized assessments and treatments
  • The world of pelvic health is continuing to expand rapidly. We are committed to continuing education to ensure current, evidence-based care.
Do I need a referral from my doctor?2025-10-15T14:39:23-04:00

No referral is needed. You can book directly with our registered pelvic floor physiotherapists. However, if you have extended health coverage, some insurance plans require a referral for reimbursement — check your plan details.

Are your Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Services covered under insurance?2025-10-15T14:38:32-04:00

Most extended health plans include pelvic floor physiotherapy as part of regular physiotherapy coverage. We encourage you to confirm your benefits directly with your insurance provider before your first visit.

I am embarrassed about coming in. What options do I have?2021-02-11T14:12:37-05:00

Many people that come for pelvic health physiotherapy are embarrassed to discuss their concerns.  Please rest assured that we will treat you with respect, compassion, and confidentiality.  Private treatment rooms are used.  Internal assessment and treatment may not be appropriate for you right away.  Receipts for services do not include any indication that you received physiotherapy for pelvic concerns.  Virtual appointments from the security and comfort of your home are available.  And if needed, in-home visits can be arranged.

What is pelvic floor physiotherapy and how does it help?2025-10-08T20:26:58-04:00

Pelvic floor physiotherapy focuses on the muscles at the base of your pelvis that support your bladder, bowel, and uterus. These muscles play an important role in bladder and bowel control, core strength, and sexual health. When they become weak, tight, or uncoordinated, issues like leaking, constipation, pain, or postpartum changes can occur. At our Markham pelvic health clinic, your physiotherapist will assess how these muscles are working and guide you through exercises, breathing, and relaxation techniques to restore strength, control, and confidence.

Are Psychotherapy Services covered under my insurance plan?2021-02-11T14:00:35-05:00

Psychotherapy, counselling, psychological services or social work is often covered by your insurance company.  In some cases, they may indicate specific provider credentials that they cover.  Our services are provided by a Registered Psychotherapist registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO).  We are also able to provide our services under the title of Social Work.  Please check with your individual insurance carrier for your specific coverage policies

What happens during a pelvic floor physiotherapy appointment?2025-10-14T13:51:56-04:00

During your first pelvic floor physiotherapy appointment at our Markham clinic, your therapist will take time to understand your medical history and build a complete picture of what’s happening. With your consent, an internal assessment may be offered to evaluate how your pelvic floor muscles and ligaments are functioning. You’ll learn what’s contributing to your symptoms, what can help, and what to avoid. Treatment may begin right away using gentle manual techniques or muscle stimulation, and you’ll leave with a personalized plan to guide your recovery and long-term goals.

How do I know if I need pelvic floor physiotherapy?2025-10-10T08:55:35-04:00

If you’re noticing bladder leaks, urgency or frequency, pelvic heaviness, pain with intimacy, constipation, or core weakness after pregnancy or surgery, an assessment can help. Many clients across York Region book a first visit just to learn more and leave with a clear plan.

Do I have to undress or have an internal exam?2025-10-10T08:55:28-04:00

An internal exam is never required at our clinic — your comfort and consent always come first. We can perform thorough external assessments if you prefer. However, an internal evaluation is often recommended because it gives us the most accurate understanding of how your pelvic floor muscles are working.

Think of it like coming to physiotherapy for a knee injury: we could assess you while you’re wearing jeans, but it’s much easier — and more precise — if you’re in shorts. The same principle applies here. We’ll always explain the process in detail and only proceed if you feel fully informed and comfortable.

How many sessions will i need?2025-10-10T11:06:28-04:00

Every person’s timeline is different, but most notice improvement within 3–6 sessions. Consistency with your home exercises and daily habits makes a big difference. Your therapist will check in regularly to track your progress and adjust your plan as your strength and confidence grow.

Is pelvic floor physiotherapy covered by insurance?2025-10-10T08:56:02-04:00

Yes. Because treatment is provided by registered physiotherapists, most extended health insurance plans cover pelvic health sessions. We’ll give you an official receipt with all licensing details for easy reimbursement. If you’re unsure, we can help you check what your plan includes before starting care.

Is pelvic floor physiotherapy safe during pregnancy?2025-10-10T08:55:04-04:00

Yes. Pelvic floor physiotherapy is safe and can be very beneficial during pregnancy. It can ease pelvic or back pain, improve bladder control, and prepare your body for birth. Sessions are always adapted to your comfort and stage of pregnancy. Many expecting parents in the Markham area start treatment in the second trimester for support and prevention.

What additional precautions are you taking during Covid?2021-05-12T23:08:00-04:00

We have always taken sanitation and cleanliness very seriously.  All clients complete a two-step Covid-Screening procedure before every visit.  We continue to change all the linens and disinfect the treatment room after every client.  This includes the laundry bin, any horizontal surfaces, door knobs, chairs, and desks.  In addition to these measures, we allow 30 minutes of open-air time between appointments to ensure adequate ventilation between clients.

When should I start pelvic floor physiotherapy after giving birth?2025-10-10T08:54:55-04:00

Most people begin once cleared by their healthcare provider — typically around 4–6 weeks postpartum. Early sessions focus on gentle recovery and education, then gradually build strength and coordination. Whether you delivered vaginally or by C-section, we’ll tailor care to your unique recovery. Our postpartum clients often tell us they wish they’d started sooner!

What technology do I need to have to engage in an online session?2021-05-12T23:18:01-04:00
  • You will need a reasonably good internet connection, especially if using video conferencing features
  • You will need a telephone line to take part in telephone sessions
  • You will need a web browser on either a phone, ipad, or computer to be able to connect with your therapist
Can pelvic floor physiotherapy help with bladder leakage or prolapse?2025-10-10T08:54:44-04:00

Yes. Physiotherapy can greatly improve bladder control and reduce the feeling of heaviness from prolapse. We focus on retraining muscle coordination, managing pressure, and supporting your core during daily movement. For many people, these changes make an enormous difference in comfort, confidence, and quality of life.

What can I do to prepare for my online session?2021-05-12T23:18:44-04:00
  • For new assessments, make sure that all online intake forms are filled in
    • For Physiotherapy: Intake Form, Let Us Get to Know You Better, Telehealth Consent Form
    • For Psychotherapy: Intake Form, Telehealth Consent Form
    • For Dietetics: Intake Form, Telehealth Consent Form
  • For clients who have previously been seen in clinic, the Telehealth Consent Form must be completed
  • Credit care authorization form must also be completed and returned to the clinic (stored securely on our servers)
  • For all sessions, the following environment would be best:
    • Quiet room with access to a microphone headset if possible
    • For physiotherapy sessions, space behind the camera to move around
    • For physiotherapy sessions, somewhere to lie down comfortably may also be beneficial (ie. a couch, a mat on the floor, or a bed)
Can I do pelvic floor exercises at home between sessions?2025-10-10T08:54:33-04:00

Absolutely. Your physiotherapist will give you a personalized home plan — not just “do Kegels.” We focus on breathing, relaxation, coordination, and gradual strengthening that fit naturally into your routine. Consistent home practice helps you progress faster and feel the benefits between appointments.

What can I expect from a virtual assessment?2021-05-12T23:19:14-04:00

During the assessment, your provider will have a detailed discussion with you about your condition, previous medical history, and goals for seeking treatment.

For physiotherapy sessions, your provider may ask you to move around in front of the camera, demonstrate certain movements, and may visually assess posture and abdominal scars.  You will never be asked to undress for a session if you are not comfortable with it.

Your therapist will go over clinical findings with you and based on your therapeutic goals, a treatment plan will be proposed.  Your therapist will also provide you with education and some things to start trying at home.

What can I expect from a virtual treatment session?2021-05-12T23:20:08-04:00

At each session your therapist will check in on your progress from the previous session.  If things have been progressing well, your therapist will likely review certain aspects of your program and provide you with suggestions for progression.  If you have encountered difficulties with your program, need clarification, or need to review aspects of your program, this is the perfect time to work together with your therapist to troubleshoot these issues.

Will my insurance cover an online session?2021-05-12T23:20:44-04:00

Insurance companies are increasingly covering Telehealth Sessions, especially given the rapid change in healthcare needs recently.  We recommend always checking with your specific insurance provider to see if they cover telehealth sessions with your specific group plan.

As of March 23, 2020, we have heard from the Canadian Physiotherapy Association that the following companies have extended coverage to include virtual services:

  • Sunlife Insurance

https://www.sunlife.ca/slf/Focus+Updates/covid19?vgnLocale=en_CA&/sponsorcovid19

As of March 23, 2020, we have received verbal confirmation from the following companies that they are also extending their coverage to virtual services:

  • Green Shield
  • Blue Cross
  • Manulife
  • Great West Life

Again, this list is not exhaustive and may be subject to change.  We recommended that you do check with your specific insurer to verify if your specific plan will cover online services.

When should I book a postpartum pelvic floor assessment?2025-10-10T10:56:31-04:00

You can book a postpartum pelvic floor assessment as soon as you feel ready — typically after your 6-week checkup, or earlier if cleared by your provider. Our physiotherapists work with women who delivered vaginally or by C-section to help you recover safely and confidently.

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