Premier Physiotherapy Kelowna, BC

Physiotherapy is a regulated healthcare profession in BC. Physiotherapists assess and treat conditions affecting muscles, joints, nerves, and the pelvic floor. They use hands-on therapy, exercise prescription, and education to reduce pain, restore movement, and prevent re-injury. All physiotherapists in BC are registered with the College of Physical Therapists of BC (CPTBC).

No. In British Columbia, you can book directly with a physiotherapist without a referral. However, some insurance plans may require a referral for coverage — check your policy before your first visit.

Your first visit includes a detailed assessment of your movement, strength, and the affected area. Your physiotherapist will ask about your health history, current symptoms, and goals. They’ll explain what they find and start treatment the same day when appropriate. Expect the first session to take about 45 minutes.

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows access to the area being treated — shorts for knee or hip work, a tank top or sleeveless shirt for shoulder treatment. Your physiotherapist will let you know if anything specific is needed when you book.

This depends on your condition and how your body responds to treatment. Many patients see meaningful improvement within 4–6 sessions. Acute injuries often resolve faster, while chronic conditions or post-surgical recovery may take longer. Your physiotherapist will give you a realistic timeline at your first appointment.

Both treat musculoskeletal pain, but with different approaches. Physiotherapists focus on movement rehabilitation, exercise prescription, and hands-on soft tissue therapy. Chiropractors focus on spinal alignment, joint mobility, and nervous system function — often using adjustments as a core tool. At Affinity Wellness, our physio and chiro teams work collaboratively, and many patients benefit from both.

Most extended health plans in BC cover physiotherapy. ICBC covers physiotherapy after a motor vehicle accident. MSP (BC’s provincial plan) does not typically cover physiotherapy for most adults. Affinity Wellness offers direct billing to most major insurers.

Yes. If you’ve been in a motor vehicle accident in BC, ICBC covers physiotherapy as part of your recovery. Affinity Wellness bills ICBC directly — you don’t need to pay upfront.

Dry needling is a technique used by trained physiotherapists to treat muscle pain and trigger points using thin needles. Unlike traditional acupuncture, which is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling is based on Western anatomy and neuroscience. At Affinity, dry needling is performed only by physiotherapists with specialized post-graduate training.