Kick Your Pain Without Opioids: Physiotherapy Can Help

rosedalewellness • July 3, 2021

Millions of people struggle with chronic pain. Whether it’s from an accident or an ongoing medical condition, living with debilitating pain can be extremely difficult. Opioids may seem like a quick and easy way to eliminate the pain you’re experiencing. There are several important reasons, however, why you should avoid opioid medication if at all possible. When dealing with ongoing or short-term pain, you’ll want to consider a physiotherapy program instead of relying on opioid pain medication. Contact Rosedale Wellness Centre today to find out how a physiotherapist can help you beat pain without opioids.

What are the Reasons Opioids are Often Prescribed?

Opioids are a powerful type of medication used to treat moderate to severe pain. Everything from oxycodone and hydrocodone to morphine and codeine is considered a type of opioid medication. The following are a few reasons why people may need this type of pain medication.

Cancer – When an individual is fighting cancer, both certain types of cancer and particular treatment options may cause pain. Sometimes tumors press against bones and nerves, causing increasing amounts of pain.
Post Surgery – Many people are in severe pain immediately following a surgical procedure. Opioids are often prescribed immediately after the surgery. Even after the initial few days, recovering from surgery can be a long and painful process for some individuals.
Chronic Health Conditions – There are several types of chronic conditions, such as severe back pain, neck pain, nerve damage, and fibromyalgia that can cause ongoing pain.
Car Accidents – An individual may be struggling with pain due to injuries received in an automobile accident. Some people may be suffering from more than one broken bone or laceration following an accident which can increase the amount of pain they’re experiencing.
Work-Related Injuries – Everything from serious back issues to falls can occur on the job. Many people may feel the need to return to work as quickly as possible because of financial needs. In order to handle the pain while still working, they turn to opioids.

What are the Reasons You Should Consider Physiotherapy?

While opioids often work to reduce severe pain, there are several potential drawbacks to using this strong medication. There are several important reasons to consider a physiotherapy program instead of relying on opioid pain medication.

Opioids are Potentially Dangerous – Unfortunately, it’s easy for many people to become addicted to opioids. During the last several years, opioid addiction has increased dramatically. An individual may also suffer from an overdose or severe withdrawal symptoms when trying to taper off the opioid medication. Physiotherapy is an excellent alternative to both prescription drugs and often risky surgeries.
Opioids Produce Temporary Results – Opioids simply cover the pain but never treat the root issue. Through movement, massage, and other techniques, a physiotherapist can address the issues that are directly causing the pain. A physiotherapy program not only can eliminate pain and increase mobility, but it provides a permanent solution.
Opioids can be Expensive – Depending on how high of a dose you’re taking and what type of opioid, relying on these types of pills can become costly. While the cost of physiotherapy may be more initially, it can quickly become more cost-effective if you end up taking pain medication for several years.
Opioids can Reduce Quality of Life – Even if you never overdose and can afford monthly prescription costs, staying on opioids for long periods can actually reduce your overall quality of life. There are often unpleasant side effects associated with long-term prescription drug use. Taking any type of powerful medication for long periods of time may dramatically affect the quality of your health.

How Can Physiotherapy Help?

A physiotherapist would start by doing an evaluation of your current condition and reviewing your medical history. An individualized treatment plan could be put together that addresses your specific needs whether they involve recovering from surgery, rehabilitation after an automobile accident, or a chronic health condition. When working with a physiotherapist, the following are several specific treatment options that are available.

Manual Therapy – A physiotherapist may use many different methods that fall under the category of manual therapy. This is a hands-on approach that might include massage, mobilization, and techniques to strengthen the muscles, joints, and ligaments.
Exercise Therapy – An individualized physiotherapy program can be put together that includes specific stretches and exercises for a person. These are designed after a physical evaluation is completed and geared toward reducing the particular type of pain a person is experiencing.
Heat and Ice Therapy – A physiotherapist can use both heat and ice to soothe muscles and joints, and ultimately eliminate pain. Depending on the type of medical condition or injury a person has, a physiotherapist will determine whether heat or cold will help reduce the pain.
Ultrasound – Ultrasound treatment provides joints with deep heat. This type of treatment can improve blood circulation and accelerate healing. This can improve connective tissues, increase flexibility, and reduce pain.
TENS – Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, or what is called TENS, is a method of treatment a physiotherapist can use to reduce pain. A TENS unit is considered safe and effective for pain relief.

These are a few of the many methods that trained physiotherapists have at their disposal to combat pain and help an individual return to a healthy, productive life. Physiotherapy can provide a healthy alternative to opioid use. A physiotherapist can put together a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific health conditions. Contact Rosedale Wellness Centre to find out how you can start living a pain-free life with the help of a physiotherapist.

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Service Fee Update

By John Son • August 11, 2026

Rosedale Wellness Centre Service Fee Update Effective September 15, 2026 At Rosedale Wellness Centre, our priority has always been to provide our patients with high-quality, personalized care in a welcoming and professional environment. We recognize that the cost of living has increased significantly and that many individuals and families are being more mindful of their expenses. We understand that healthcare costs are part of that consideration, and we do not take the decision to adjust our fees lightly. Beginning September 15, 2026 , we will be making adjustments to selected service fees. This represents our first general fee adjustment in approximately two years. These changes will allow us to continue investing in our practitioners, staff, equipment, facilities and services while maintaining the quality of care and patient experience you have come to appreciate from Rosedale Wellness Centre. Physiotherapy Initial Assessments & Treatment 40 minutes — $105 60 minutes — $145 Subsequent Treatments 20 minutes — $80 30 minutes — $100 40 minutes — $115 60 minutes — $150 Registered Massage Therapy 30 minutes — $96 45 minutes — $122 60 minutes — $148 75 minutes — $174 90 minutes — $206 The prices shown above represent the final patient cost, including HST. Osteopathy 20 minutes — $80 30 minutes — $102 40 minutes — $133 60 minutes — $170 The prices shown above represent the final patient cost, including HST. Acupuncture 30 minutes — $90 45 minutes — $115 60 minutes — $140 Cosmetic Acupuncture 45 minutes — $120 60 minutes — $145 90 minutes — $175 Chiropody Initial visit — $115 Subsequent treatment — $85 Why Are Our Fees Changing? We have worked carefully to keep these adjustments as reasonable as possible. Over the past two years, the cost of operating a multidisciplinary healthcare clinic has continued to rise. At the same time, we remain committed to maintaining the level of care, service and support our patients expect. The updated fees help us continue to: Attract and retain experienced healthcare practitioners Support ongoing education and professional development Invest in treatment equipment, technology and clinical resources Maintain our treatment rooms, rehabilitation facilities and clinic environment Provide strong front-desk and administrative support Continue offering a broad range of healthcare services under one roof These investments allow our practitioners and staff to focus on what matters most — your health, your recovery and your experience at Rosedale Wellness Centre. When Do the New Fees Take Effect? The updated rates will take effect on September 15, 2026 . Appointments taking place before September 15 will continue to be charged at the current rates. Appointments occurring on or after September 15 will be charged according to the updated fee schedule above. Please be advised that due to the recent price increase, patients whose appointments are booked within their insurance coverage limits may be slightly over their covered amount. We kindly ask that you plan accordingly and be prepared for any potential additional cost . If you have any questions or concerns regarding your coverage or the price increase, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re happy to assist you. Thank You for Your Continued Trust We sincerely appreciate your understanding and continued support. For more than 30 years, Rosedale Wellness Centre has been committed to helping our patients feel better, move better and live healthier lives. We are grateful for the trust you place in our practitioners and our team. These adjustments will help us continue providing the quality of care and level of service you have come to appreciate from Rosedale Wellness Centre for years to come.