Renae Hunter

Renae Hunter provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Common Msk

• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Acute or chronic pain originating from various musculoskeletal sources, such as a pulled muscle (strain), inflamed tendon, or irritated bursa.
• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Aching, sharp, or deep pain in the hip that may worsen with activity, specific movements, or even at rest.

Chronic Pain

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome / Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) - Activity Management: Supporting individuals with CFS/ME to manage their symptoms, avoid PEM, and find sustainable ways to engage in activity, often in collaboration with other healthcare providers.
• Fibromyalgia: A chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep disturbances, memory and mood issues (often called 'fibro fog'), and tender points.

Pregnancy Postpartum

• Pregnancy-Related Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP) / Low Back Pain / Sciatica: Supporting a more comfortable pregnancy journey by addressing musculoskeletal issues such as PGP, back pain, or nerve compression symptoms with tailored physiotherapy.
• Postpartum Pelvic Floor Dysfunction (e.g., Incontinence, Pain, Prolapse): Addressing the physical challenges and changes to the pelvic floor and core that can occur after childbirth, helping you regain confidence and function.
• Diastasis Recti (Abdominal Muscle Separation) Assessment & Rehabilitation: Guidance on safe and effective exercises for abdominal wall recovery after pregnancy, addressing diastasis recti and improving overall core integrity.
• C-Section Scar Management and Abdominal Recovery: Guidance on scar massage techniques, desensitization strategies, specific exercises to reactivate abdominal muscles safely, and postural advice after a C-section.

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

• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): A form of manual therapy that actively involves you in your treatment, utilizing your body's muscular effort to achieve specific therapeutic effects on restricted joints and shortened soft tissues.
• 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.
• Pre-Natal (Pregnancy) Physiotherapy: Addressing the unique physical demands of pregnancy with tailored physiotherapy interventions, helping you prevent issues and optimize your well-being.
• Post-Natal (Postpartum) Rehabilitation: Helping you rebuild strength, stability, and confidence in your body during the postpartum period, addressing concerns like 'mummy tummy' or bladder leakage.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Application of skilled soft tissue techniques to manage pain, stiffness, and improve function in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Renae. 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 Moss Postpartum House, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Renae frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Discover how physiotherapy with Renae can help you move beyond a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns). The focus is on successfully integrating safe movement strategies into their daily routines, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as performing self-care tasks like hair washing or reaching your back.
• Many find that that persistent ache in my lower back that just won't quit significantly impacts their ability to pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty. Renae helps patients target seeing their child achieve developmental milestones with greater ease (for pediatric physio) with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• Struggling with the frustration of widespread muscle pain and fatigue that my doctor thinks might be fibromyalgia? Renae develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving reduced muscle tension and a feeling of greater physical ease. This is key to helping you get back to doing participating in light recreational activities like bowling or mini-golf with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.

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

Renae practices at the Moss Postpartum House, situated in the NW Calgary neighborhoods of Hillhurst, Westmount, and Sunnyside (Kensington). The clinic is conveniently located near the Commercial Corridor South, making it easily accessible for local residents. Calgary Transit services, including CTrain LRT, bus, and BRT routes, provide excellent public transportation options for clients traveling to the clinic. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial and integral component of most physiotherapy treatment plans. Your Physiotherapist will prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals. These exercises are designed to complement your in-clinic treatment, help you manage your symptoms effectively between sessions, accelerate your recovery, and empower you with tools for long-term self-management. Your active participation in your home program is key for optimal results.

I have private health insurance. How does that work with physiotherapy payments?

Many private health insurance plans offer full or partial coverage for registered physiotherapy services. We recommend you contact your insurance provider directly before your first appointment to understand the specifics of your plan. Key things to check are: your annual maximum for physiotherapy, any per-visit limits or co-payments, whether a doctor's referral is required for reimbursement, and if your plan allows for direct billing by the clinic. If Renae's clinic offers direct billing and your plan allows it, we can often bill your insurer directly for the covered portion. You would then be responsible for any co-payment or remaining balance not covered by your plan at the time of service. Please bring your insurance card and all necessary policy details to your first appointment. If direct billing is not possible, we will provide you with an official receipt that you can submit to your insurer.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Initial assessment appointments are generally longer to allow for a thorough evaluation and discussion, typically lasting between 45 to 60 minutes. Subsequent follow-up treatment sessions are usually shorter, often ranging from 30 to 45 minutes. However, the duration can vary depending on your specific needs, the complexity of your condition, the type of treatment being provided, and the treatment plan designed by your Physiotherapist.

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

Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) provides limited coverage for some physiotherapy services, typically after hospital discharge or for specific low-income individuals and seniors through particular programs. Most outpatient private clinic physiotherapy is NOT directly covered by AHCIP for the general population. It is advisable to check current AHCIP details and your private insurance coverage to confirm your benefits.

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

In Alberta, patients can typically access a Physiotherapist directly without a physician's referral, known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required to see a Physiotherapist, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It’s recommended to verify the requirements of your insurance plan before your appointment.

Moss Postpartum House
1614 8th Ave NW
Calgary, AB T2N 1C2

Phone: (587) 327-3980

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

License #6493

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.