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Writer's pictureAaron Dobie

Telephysio: A treatment option amid COVID-19

Updated: Jun 12, 2020

In an effort to “flatten the curve,” the majority of private practice Physiotherapy clinics across BC have chosen to close their doors. The College of Physical Therapists of British Columbia asked each business to run their own risk assessment and strongly recommended clinics only to remain open for patients with “urgent needs”. The Physiotherapy community wanted to lead by example to show the public how serious the pandemic is and help maximize social distancing.

Quick to adapt and to ensure continuity of care, many clinics are turning to telephysio (also know as telerehab, virtual physio or online physio). This service is a provision of physiotherapy at a distance using communication technology such as video conferencing and other applications. Many of the conditions typically seen in a physiotherapy clinic are now possible to treat using modern technology. In addition to the physiotherapists, many other health care professionals are incorporating telehealth into their practice including doctors, occupational therapists, and dieticians. Research has shown that telephysio assessment and treatment are at least equal to, and in some cases superior to, in-person physiotherapy. 

InReach Physio is an online Physiotherapy service that previously treated the majority of their patients in northern and rural communities where in-person Physiotherapy is limited. That has now changed and the business is seeing an increased interest throughout all cities in BC due to closures.

InReach works with all musculoskeletal injuries as well as those who may not be injured and are looking for personalized exercise consulting advice and programming. Their Neuro-rehab therapist treats conditions such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, spinal cord injury and vestibular disorders.

InReach Physio uses an online booking and billing system that even allows patients to see a therapist on the same day. Their paperless system has you complete all intake and consent forms online. Before your appointment, you get an invite to join a secure (GDRP approved) teleconference. You have the choice of using a computer, phone or tablet. We use the Physiapp for any exercises that are prescribed and this platform has a built in text messenger so the patient and therapist can continue to communicate after the appointment has ended.


Initial assessment are booked hourly and cost $100. The Physiotherapist will begin the assessment by learning about you, your medical history, and the reason for your appointment including goals of treatment. Once discussed, the Physiotherapist will ask you to complete a series of movements to rule in and rule out the cause of your concern or pain. If you do not have any pain and booked an appointment for preventative reasons, the therapist will assess your movement, strength and mobility to best design an independent exercise program. An added benefit is that major extended health plans including but not limited to Pacific Blue Cross, Green Shield, EmpireLife, SunLife, Manulife and Great West Life are reimbursing for tele-services. We do recommended confirming with your provider as it can be policy dependant.

About the author:

Aaron Dobie is co-owner of InReach Online Physiotherapy and a registered Physiotherapist currently treating via telephysio throughout British Columbia.

Do you have questions? Feel free to contact us at www.inreachphysio.ca or by email at inreachphysio@gmail.com.


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3 Comments


Harry Parker
Harry Parker
Nov 28

Telephysio has emerged as a valuable treatment option during COVID-19, offering safe and effective physiotherapy sessions from the comfort of home. By leveraging technology, patients can maintain their recovery and physical health without risking exposure. For students researching this innovative approach, Assignment Help Canada services provide expert assistance with crafting detailed, well-researched assignments. Whether it's analyzing telehealth trends or exploring its impact on healthcare, these services ensure quality and timely submissions. Stay ahead in academics with professional support!

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aarondobie
Jun 12, 2020

Hi Carol, Thanks for contributing to our blog and sharing your story. Very happy to hear that the disease is fully under control. The best treatment is always multi-focal involving diet, lifestyle, stress, medications, exercise, etc. Can't only look at one piece. Regards, Aaron

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carol ford
carol ford
Jun 12, 2020

After was running around from doctor to doctor before we finally get rid of her PD ,at age 74 my mother noticed that her handwriting was getting smaller and I was writing faster as well. She also noticed a small tremor in her left hand. The doctor went over her different symptoms and he suspected she either had a small stroke or the beginnings of Parkinson 's disease. After finding a neurologist and some testing she was diagnosed with the beginning stages of Parkinson’s disease. That was 3 years ago. She take Sinimet four times a day to control the symptoms, which include falling, imbalance, gait problems, swallowing difficulties, and slurring of speech,This year, our family doctor started her on…

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