What is kinesiology?

Kinesiology is the study of the dynamics of human movement and its components (anatomical, physiological, neurological, biochemical, biomechanical, neuromotor, psychological) in interaction with the environment.

We can say that kinesiology is also defined as human kinetics, or the scientific study of human movement. The term comes from the Greek word kinesis, which means "to move."

What is a kinesiologist?

As university-educated health professionals, Kinesiologists apply exercise and movement science to promote health and well-being; prevent, manage, and rehabilitate injuries; treat illness and chronic disease; restore function; and optimize human performance in the workplace, clinical settings, sport, and fitness. Kinesiologists are the only human movement specialists who use science and research to offer movement as medicine, to any person with a health or fitness goal who wants a hands-on, personalized approach.

Does insurance pay for kinesiology services?

Insurance coverage for kinesiology services will depend on your specific plan.  We do not bill your insurance company directly. Now, the process is very simple to submit to your insurance and we will provide you with your invoice after each appointment. Kinesiology may be covered under Great West Life and Des Jardins plans. Coverage can be often be found under the Physiotherapy or Athletic Therapy umbrella. Kinesiology services can also be covered through Veterans Affairs. Call your extended health care provider for details.

What is a kinesiology appointment like?

Our first session is an assessment which typically takes about an hour in length.  In the assessment, we have an in-depth discussion to discover the root causes of your injury and confirm this with a detailed movement exam before we outline a comprehensive treatment plan.  Our follow up sessions are either 45 minutes or 1 hour depending on your individual need.  During these sessions, we will have enough time to recap what has occurred since the previous session, re-evaluate any movements, progress your treatment plan and exercise program, and provide you with the next steps in your recovery.

Do I need to bring anything to my appointment?

It is important to wear loose clothing that you might wear to a gym.  A pair of well fitted running shoes and a water bottle.

How do I know if my issue is ‘bad enough’ to see a kinesiologist? I don’t want to waste anyone’s time.

No issue is too small or insignificant.  The truth is if it is interrupting your lifestyle in any way or you are feeling uncertain about what is going on, then there is value in getting an assessment to gain confidence in the diagnosis and have a detailed management plan.  We advocate for this pro-active approach because issues left to linger tend to become more complex with time.