Treatment is done primarily using the Integrated Systems Model (ISM). It is a way of assessing and treating injuries that looks at the relationship of the different regions of the body. It aims to find the driver, or actual cause of the injury, vs just chasing pain. We correct the driver and work on creating a new strategy to improve the quality of movement. ISM pairs very well with the other parts of my practice.

The two most important parts of a physiotherapy treatment are manual therapy and home exercise prescription. Manual therapy is the hands-on part of physiotherapy. Specific techniques are used to mobilize (move) joints and release muscles. This is often the first step in correcting an ISM driver. A home exercise program is essential to physiotherapy success and time is spent each appointment reviewing, updating and supervising a patient’s home exercises, stretches and release techniques.

Integrated Dry Needling is the insertion of a very thin, flexible needle into a shortened/tight muscle to help it relax. These muscles often contain trigger points that contribute to pain and overall body dysfunction. Release of these shortened muscles often helps correct an ISM driver, therefore improving quality of movement.

Acupuncture is the insertion of thin, flexible needles into very specific anatomical points to encourage healing. Acupuncture results in decreased pain, increased blood flow, and overall relaxation of mind and body.

Physiotherapy plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of concussions, whether sustained in sports, a car accident, or even something like a fall. If you have concussion symptoms, you should be seeing a physiotherapist! Physiotherapists who treat concussions have taken additional post-graduate training. And it is never too late to start treatment- you can still benefit even if you sustained your concussion years ago.

If you play a contact sport, baseline testing is recommended at the start of the season, to make it easier to diagnose and treat potential future concussions. Baseline testing can be completed in-person or virtually. Testing can be done individually and group rates are also available for teams.

Each appointment includes a quick physiotherapy assessment to determine your exercise needs, the cause of any injuries or imbalances, and general goals for the session. You may receive some hands-on physiotherapy treatment or needling, but the majority of the session will be a one-on-one Pilates exercise session. Exercises will be primarily mat-based and you will receive some additional exercises for homework. This session is ideal for anyone looking to start an exercise routine, safely build core strength, or get back to exercising after an injury.