Dale Richard Probst – Physiotherapist | Lethbridge, AB

Dale Richard Probst is a dedicated Physiotherapist practicing at Chinook Regional Hospital in Lethbridge, AB. He is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the College of Physical Therapists of Alberta (CPTA). Dale's approach emphasizes a comprehensive assessment and tailored treatment plans designed to address a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, pain issues, and movement dysfunctions. His focus is on helping patients of all ages restore function, alleviate pain, and enhance their overall quality of life through evidence-based physiotherapy interventions.

With a strong educational background and ongoing professional development, Dale has completed his degree in Physiotherapy and has gained valuable clinical experience across diverse patient populations. He remains committed to staying current with the latest advancements in physiotherapy practices, ensuring his patients receive the most effective and up-to-date treatments. Dale's dedication to excellence is reflected in his thorough assessments and personalized treatment strategies that prioritize patient safety and optimal outcomes.

Practicing with a collaborative approach, Dale works closely with his patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. He believes in empowering individuals through clear education about their conditions and practical self-management techniques that promote lasting results. Dale offers care in English, ensuring effective communication and understanding throughout the treatment process.

Dale Richard Probst provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Sports Injury

• Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome): Inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue (periosteum) around the tibia, which requires rest, activity modification, and specific physiotherapy interventions for recovery.
• Ligament Sprains (e.g., ACL, MCL, PCL, Ankle Ligaments): Stretching or tearing of ligaments (the strong, fibrous bands that connect bones to each other at joints) due to sudden force, twisting, overstretching, or impact. Common in sports involving jumping, cutting, pivoting, or collisions. Examples include ACL/MCL tears in the knee or common ankle sprains.
• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee / Anterior Knee Pain): A common overuse injury in active individuals and athletes, sometimes referred to as 'runner's knee' or 'anterior knee pain', often related to biomechanical issues in how the kneecap tracks.
• Stress Fractures (Activity-Related - Conservative Management/Rehab): A bone injury resulting from an imbalance between bone resorption and bone formation due to repetitive mechanical loading, often seen in runners or athletes who rapidly increase their training.

Common Msk

• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Weakness, a feeling of the ankle 'giving way' repeatedly, or persistent pain after an initial sprain, indicating a need for targeted physiotherapy to restore stability and function.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Aching, soreness, or sharp pain experienced in the neck, which may include muscle spasms, trigger points, or reduced flexibility.

Back Neck Pain

• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Post-traumatic neck pain, restricted movement, and associated issues common after car accidents, which benefit from early and appropriate physiotherapy intervention.
• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Sharp, shooting, electric-like, or burning pain that travels along the path of a nerve due to issues with intervertebral discs or other spinal structures.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Often age-related changes leading to pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots, causing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs with walking (neurogenic claudication in lumbar stenosis) or in the arms/hands (cervical stenosis).
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: A common cause of persistent back and neck pain due to the cumulative strain of prolonged sitting, standing, or performing tasks in non-ideal positions.

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Dale can assess your needs.

• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Skilled hands-on techniques, including gentle joint mobilizations (smooth, rhythmic movements) and, where appropriate and authorized, joint manipulations (quick, precise thrusts) to restore optimal movement, reduce pain, and improve joint function.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Active patient participation through guided, gentle muscle contractions to restore normal joint play, reduce muscle guarding, and improve tissue length.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Ultrasound therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, often used to prepare tissues for manual therapy or exercise, or to manage acute and chronic soft tissue injuries.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Utilizing targeted electrical currents to help alleviate pain, manage discomfort, and support healing in conjunction with other physiotherapy interventions.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Targeted therapy to alleviate symptoms such as shooting pain, pins and needles, or weakness arising from neural tension or entrapment.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Targeted manual methods performed by your Physiotherapist to release tight or overactive muscles, address fascial restrictions, and alleviate pain arising from soft tissue dysfunction.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Dale. For a full list or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.

All services are provided in accordance with standards set by the College of Physical Therapists of Alberta (CPTA).

At Chinook Regional Hospital, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Dale frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Patients struggling with tendonitis pain flaring up in my shoulder, knee, elbow, or foot can find dedicated and compassionate support from Dale. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving a more comfortable and physically manageable pregnancy experience, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as playing a full game of recreational hockey with your friends.
• The path to recovery from a 'frozen shoulder' feeling, where my shoulder feels completely stuck and achieving reduced muscle tension and a feeling of greater physical ease for taking energetic, long walks with your dog every day often starts with expert guidance. Dale, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of experiencing discomfort, back pain, or pelvic girdle pain during or after pregnancy? Dale works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of enjoying less stiffness in the mornings and throughout the day. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as simply being able to get through a workday without constant pain interruptions.

Your personalized physiotherapy plan, developed with Dale, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.

Dale practices at Chinook Regional Hospital, situated in the heart of Downtown Lethbridge within the South Lethbridge East neighbourhood. The clinic is conveniently located near Commercial Corridor South, making it easily accessible for local residents. Patients can access the clinic via Lethbridge Transit, with stops nearby ensuring convenient transportation options. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

Is physiotherapy covered by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

In Alberta, AHCIP provides limited coverage for certain physiotherapy services, typically after hospital discharge or for specific low-income individuals and seniors through targeted programs. Most outpatient physiotherapy services in private clinics are not directly covered by AHCIP for the general population. Patients are advised to check current AHCIP details and their private insurance plans for coverage specifics.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy involves skilled, hands-on treatments performed by a Physiotherapist as part of the overall treatment plan. These techniques include joint mobilizations, soft tissue release, and manipulations (if appropriate), aimed at decreasing pain, restoring movement, and improving joint and soft tissue function.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

The primary goal of physiotherapy is to reduce pain and improve function. Some techniques may cause mild, temporary discomfort, but your Physiotherapist will work within your tolerance levels and communicate clearly. If you experience significant pain during treatment, please inform your therapist immediately.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

The number of sessions varies based on your condition, severity, and goals. Your Physiotherapist will propose a treatment plan after assessment and re-evaluate progress regularly to determine ongoing needs.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes. Physiotherapy can identify movement weaknesses or imbalances and provide strategies to prevent future injuries or pain recurrence. A tailored exercise program and education are key components of injury prevention.

Do I need a doctor’s referral to see a Physiotherapist in AB?

In Alberta, patients can typically access a Physiotherapist directly without a referral (known as direct access). However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement. It is advisable to check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

Chinook Regional Hospital
960 19 Street S
Lethbridge, AB T1J 1W5

Phone: (403) 553-5315

Dale Richard Probst is regulated by the Health Professions Act in AB and is a member of the College of Physical Therapists of Alberta (CPTA).

License #3325

Registration can be verified with the College of Physical Therapists of Alberta (CPTA).

Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.