Detailed answers to our most commonly asked questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prepare for treatment?

This will be reviewed at the time of consultation. However, please ensure that your are feeling well and are adequately hydrated the day of treatment. Most patients are safe to drive home after but it may be safest to consider an alternate driver for the initial treatment, especially if you have had no similar therapies in the past. We also recommend that you wear dark loose clothing or bring a change of clothing with you.

Are the treatments painful?

The amount of pain experienced will primarily depend on the location on your body that is treated and the treatment modality applied. Our physicians aim to ensure that you are comfortable throughout the treatments and will make adjustments as needed to accommodate your pain response.

What are the common side effects?

These will be reviewed at the time of consultation and are largely dependent on the treatment modality implemented. However, as with any injection procedure, there is the potential for bleeding and bruising. Patients may also experience fatigue, pain flare, or pain migration to alternate sites from those treated. Please discuss with your treating physician any potential rare complications for the modalities used and contact the treating clinic if you have any concerns after treatment.

What are the contraindications to treatment?

We advise against treatment if you are unwell or currently on treatment for an active infection. Some treatments are contraindicated if you have autoimmune disorders, past surgeries with known hardware, or certain other injection therapies. Please ensure to review all medications with your treating physician and inform them if you are pregnant or have any known blood-borne illnesses.

How many treatments are required?

The number of treatments required will depend on multiple factors, including but not limited to, age, medical history, and injury acuity and severity. Many acute injuries often respond to only a few treatments while chronic pain sources are more complex in management. Typically, as we treat the most obvious source of pain, other pain contributors become more apparent resulting in treatment modification.

How much do the treatments cost?

Most of our treatments are covered by provincial health insurance (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan, AHCIP). The cost of treatments not covered by AHCIP varies based on treatment complexity but may be eligible for coverage with your private insurance provider (if applicable). Our physicians are able to provide letters of support to your insurance provider if required and any costs will be fully discussed prior to treatment. For a relative cost comparison please visit our Treatment Comparison page.

Are your treatments image-guided?

Yes, our physicians utilize bedside ultrasound for direct visualization during most treatments. The use of image-guidance ensures treatment accuracy and provides for greater patient safety.

When can I return to activity?

We encourage our patients to rest but remain active after treatment. However, we typically advise against strenuous activity for 1-2 weeks, dependent on their treatment modality. Please discuss this further with your treating physician as our recommendations are tailored to each patient.