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Has your back started to hurt from sitting too long at your desk? Are you sore after participating in the annual Campus Cup? The Glen Sather Sports Medicine Clinic on North Campus offers a 10% discount to all students, regardless of whether you are an athlete or not!
The clinic is conveniently central, located on the second floor of the Kaye Clinic and easily accessible through the Edmonton Clinic Health Academy (ECHA) pedways.
Although the name can be deceiving, it is clear from my visit that the Glen Sather Clinic is not just for athletes. Whether you are an active sports participant or a fellow couch potato, the sports clinic is there to ensure your body is in its best state. They offer a variety of different services, which include but are not limited to physiotherapy, massage therapy, orthopedics and specific musculoskeletal medical care. You can easily book massage and physio appointments by phone call (780-407-5160). Prefer not to talk on the phone? Not a problem! Their online booking service makes it convenient to book whenever or wherever you are. Their website provides many specifics about the information and experienced physiotherapists so you can learn about which specialist would be a right fit for you.
Upon my initial visit to the clinic, I noticed the welcoming and pristine atmosphere, with the staff being exceptionally approachable. The clinic has multiple examination rooms, yet the focal point for the physiotherapy sessions is their central training room (see photo below), which is abundantly equipped with weights, yoga balls and various training machinery. The extensive access to tools and equipment was impressive. Just by touring their clinic, it was evident that the clinic has the access and knowledge to provide high-quality services. The clinic’s specialists, each bringing diverse experiences and knowledge, offer outstanding professional assessments. Notably, I was impressed by the onsite store facilitating physiotherapists in assisting patients with specific rehabilitation tools, such as resistance bands. Physiotherapist assistants (PTAs) play a crucial role in fitting individuals with the necessary tools based on their unique needs.
My surprise grew as I discovered the vast amount of support staff ensuring the clinic operates seamlessly, contributing a variety of knowledge to aid specialists in delivering optimal service and care.
During my visit, I had the opportunity to sit down and talk with Kathryn Merrell, Manager of the Glen Sather Sports Medicine Clinic. She addressed the misconception surrounding the clinic’s name, “people think because it is ‘Glen Sather Sports Medicine Clinic’ and it can be a little intimidating to walk through the doors if people think they should not be here, but everyone is welcome.” Merrell emphasized the clinic’s inclusivity and dispelled the notion of exclusivity. The clinic’s primary goal, regardless of an individual’s athletic affiliation, is to enhance the well-being of all. No matter how big or how small the issue is, the clinic is there to help improve your overall health. When speaking about the evidence-based approaches, Merrell affirmed, “There is no magic machine that we are going to hook you up to and walk away,” emphasizing the absence of quick fixes and the gradual process wherein specialists work closely with clients to ensure their body becomes the best it can be.
I was amazed to learn of the evident and dedicated relationship between physiotherapists and their clients.
By having the practitioners and staff closely situated to the university and students, the clinic is connected with the university community, allowing easy access to their services. The collaborative relationship between the community and clinic enhances the effectiveness of their services and fosters a shared responsibility for health.
After my visit, it became clear that there are numerous benefits to physiotherapy. Not only can it alleviate the pain caused by injury or other inflictions, but it also promotes injury prevention and rehabilitation. Physiotherapy prevents injuries through targeted exercises and conditioning. Physiotherapy aids in rehabilitating and ensuring that their clients return to their regular activities.
I think a key benefit of physiotherapy for students is posture improvement. As someone who suffers from bad posture inflicted by prolonged periods hunched over a desk, physiotherapy can improve postural problems through exercise and education. Poor posture contributes to various musculoskeletal problems, but by taking the time to seek improvement, you can maintain a more aligned and balanced posture. However, specific benefits vary depending on the individual’s condition and goal of treatment. At the Glen Sather Clinic, the physiotherapist will provide a tailored assessment according to each person’s unique needs. But it is important to note that the Glen Sather Sports Medicine Clinic offers more than just physiotherapy.
The Glen Sather Sports Medicine Clinic allowed me to gain a better understanding of the processes and the clinic’s inclusive approach, emphasizing the value of prioritizing musculoskeletal health for individuals, regardless of athletic involvement. The clinic serves as a versatile health care resource, extending beyond physiotherapy to meet the diverse needs of the community and reinforcing the idea that you do not need to be an athlete to prioritize your body’s care.
Want to learn more? Be sure to check out the Glen Sather Sports Clinic booth on Jan. 11, 2 - 5 p.m., at the Hanson Fitness and Lifestyle Centre (HFLC).