Visiting Pivot for the first time? Whether you’re coming in for physiotherapy, chiropractic, massage therapy, pelvic floor care, osteopathy, pedorthics, kinesiology, or a sports medicine consultation, this guide will help you know what to expect — and how to feel comfortable and prepared.
Our goal is to make your first visit clear, stress-free, and supportive from the moment you walk through the door.
Before Your Appointment
Complete Your Online Intake Form
You’ll receive an email with your intake form after booking. Completing this ahead of time helps your clinician review your health history, symptoms, and goals before you arrive.
Why this matters:
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Saves time during your appointment
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Ensures we understand your concerns
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Helps your clinician create a personalized treatment plan
If you prefer, you can complete the form in the clinic.
Bring Any Relevant Medical Information
You do not need a doctor’s referral — but bring these if you have them:
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Imaging reports (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound)
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Notes from previous clinicians
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Medication list
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Orthotics or braces you currently use
This helps us assess your condition more accurately.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Choose clothing that allows for easy movement and exposure of the area being assessed.
Some examples:
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Shorts for knee, hip, or ankle injuries
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Tank top or T-shirt for shoulder or upper back issues
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Leggings, joggers, or athletic wear
If you forget, don’t worry — we can adjust.
Arrive 5–10 Minutes Early
This helps with:
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Parking
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Checking in
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Confirming paperwork
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Preparing for your assessment
Pivot Bloor West has neighbourhood famous stairs with motivational phrases to help you get your steps in upon arrival and Mimico has wheelchair accessible entryways. Both clinics have beautiful and comfortable waiting areas.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
Each appointment is one-on-one with a registered clinician who is trained to assess, diagnose, and treat your condition using evidence-based practice.
Step 1 — Discussion & Health History
Your clinician will start by asking about:
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Your symptoms
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When they began
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How they affect daily activities
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Your goals (e.g., return to sport, reduce pain, improve mobility)
This helps identify patterns and contributing factors.
Step 2 — Physical Assessment
Depending on your concern, this may include:
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Range of motion testing
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Strength testing
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Posture and movement assessment
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Functional testing (e.g., walking, lifting, balance)
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Palpation or gentle hands-on examination
Pelvic floor physiotherapy assessments also include detailed explanation, consent, and options.
Step 3 — Diagnosis & Plan
Your clinician will explain:
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What’s causing your symptoms
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Which structures are involved
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What the evidence recommends
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What your treatment plan looks like
We encourage questions and open discussion.
Step 4 — Treatment
Treatment often begins during the first visit and may include:
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Manual therapy
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Soft tissue techniques
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Joint mobilization
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Exercise therapy
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Movement retraining
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Education on pacing, mechanics, or activity modification
Treatment is individualized and goal-focused.
After Your Appointment
Home Exercise Program (If Recommended)
Your clinician may send you exercise videos or instructions via email to support your recovery between visits. Consistent practice helps you make meaningful progress.
When to Book Your Next Appointment
Depending on your condition, you may be recommended:
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Follow-up appointments weekly
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A progression plan over several weeks
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Multidisciplinary care (e.g., physio + RMT, physio + sports med)
Your clinician will explain how frequently you should return for the best results.
Billing & Insurance
Most private insurance plans cover:
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Physiotherapy
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Chiropractic
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Massage therapy
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Osteopathy
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Dietitian services
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Pelvic floor physiotherapy
Coverage varies by provider.
Ask us if you need treatment receipts or an appointment summary.
For the following specific services:
Physiotherapy
Bring gym shoes if possible.
Expect movement testing, strength assessment, and treatment on the first visit.
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
Your physiotherapist will review your comfort level, consent, and assessment structure before beginning.
Internal exams are optional and performed only with full consent.
Sports Medicine Physician
Bring a list of your medications and any past imaging.
If you’re an athlete, bring your training schedule.
Pedorthics / Orthotics
Bring your shoes — athletic, daily wear, and work footwear if relevant.
Massage Therapy (RMT)
Discuss your pressure preferences and comfort level.
Your RMT will explain treatment options before beginning.
When to Contact the Clinic Before Your Visit
Please reach out if you:
Have questions about what to wear
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Want to update or add medical information
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Need to adjust your appointment
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Are experiencing new or worsening symptoms
Our team is here to support you.
Pivot Sport Medicine and Orthopaedics
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