Services We Offer

Physiotherapy Assessment and Treatment

Physiotherapy is a regulated health profession that provides care aimed at restoring strength, mobility and function. Physiotherapists have detailed knowledge of the musculoskeletal system, nervous system, cardio respiratory system, pathology and healing. Our knowledge in these areas help us to provide a thorough assessment to evaluate your problem area and develop a treatment approach best suited to you. For our assessments, we commit an hour of time dedicated just to you and do not book other patients at the same time. We do this to ensure that we have plenty of time to get your perspective and information, complete a thorough physical examination of the problem area, and still have time to discuss with you our findings, prognosis and recommendations. On subsequent visits, we continue to work with you one-on-one so that our focus remains on you for the duration of your treatment.

In-Clinic

We are following all covid-19 protocols and will require you to be screened prior to entry, to wear a mask and use hand sanitizer upon entry and exit. Please notify us in advance if you are experiencing any symptoms on the Shared Health Covid-19 screening. We would be happy to make alternate arrangements such as an online appointment or reschedule.

In-Home

If you are not mobile or unable to attend the clinic (for example, following surgery, on active treatment etc) and are in need of care, we can come to you! Please call us and we can arrange for same. All COVID-19 protocols and PPE requirements will be followed.

Virtual Telerehabiliation

We also offer visits via a secure online platform. Please call us to discuss your suitably for this method of care.

Pre- and Post-Surgical Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy assessment prior to surgery can help identify and address early on any issues that may impact your recovery such as posture, pre-existing weakness and stiffness.

Following surgery, physiotherapy can help with instruction on post-operative protocols, strategies to modify activities of daily living to accommodate post-operative restrictions, help prevent and/or manage complications and monitor your progress. Following recovery, physiotherapy can further guide you in restoring mobility and strength and get you back to doing the things you love, quickly and safely!

Cancer Rehabilitation

Cancer rehab can support, guide and rehabilitate people living with a cancer diagnosis, preparing for treatment, during treatment or following treatment. It’s focus is on helping you achieve your best possible well-being by reducing or managing side effects and improving your quality of life and function. It can also help reduce the risk of long term disability, other related health problems and risk of recurrence. It is a multi-system approach that is evidence-based exercise prescription and individualized to address your own unique needs and concerns.

Return to Work Conditioning, Planning and Support

We understand the physical, mental and financial impacts of not being able to work. We have extensive experience in helping you achieve this goal and offer support every step of the way. We can help you prepare to return to your workplace by working with you to improve your strength, function and confidence. Our approach is completely individualized, taking into account your own unique needs and obstacles, your own job demands and where you are now compared to where you want to be. We are in frequent communication with your insurance provider and doctor to provide recommendations to make for a smooth transition back into the workforce.

Breast Cancer Post-operative Care and Rehabilitation

Physiotherapy after breast surgery can help reduce discomfort, limit the formation of scar tissue, improve shoulder range of motion and posture, and help you improve your strength and function. We can assist with rehabilitation after procedures such as TRAM, DIEP, and lat flap, expanders, and help mitigate or manage complications such as seroma, neuropraxia and Axillary Web Syndrome (cording). Cording typically occurs several days or weeks following surgery with lymph node removal, but can also occur months down the road. Cording can be painful and restrict shoulder mobility and function.

Strength After Breast Cancer

Strength After Breast Cancer is a research-based exercise program created specifically for breast cancer survivors who have or are at risk of lymphedema. The program is twice weekly gradual strength training that is SAFE for breast cancer survivors who have had lymph nodes removed. Studies showed this program decreased the risk of lymphedema flare-ups by HALF!! Other benefits documented include decreased risk of arm swelling, substantial improvements in strength, improved body image and preventing decline in physical function. Strength ABC consists of a lymphedema education session and 4 group or individual sessions to learn the exercises and progressions, taught by a registered physiotherapist specifically trained in this protocol.

Individual Exercise Prescription and Guidance

Going through cancer treatments can take a toll on your body. Your energy can be depleted and it can be hard to know how to get back on track to a healthy lifestyle. There is much evidence to support the importance of prescribed exercise and physical activity for your function, well-being, long term health and survival. There are many studies that document the positive effects of exercise on reducing the risk of recurrence. We can help you get started on a program, evaluate your current exercise regime if you already have one, and progress your program accordingly. To maximize the many benefits of exercise, it is important to make sure you are doing the correct exercises at the correct intensity. We can help you figure out a plan that works for you to optimize your exercise benefits and take back control of your health!

Pain Education and Management Strategies

1 to 2 out of 3 cancer survivors go on to develop persistent pain, taking both a physical and psychological toll. Pain can be a result of the cancer itself or the various treatments the survivor has gone through, including surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. A sensitized nervous system, neuropathy or nerve damage can often be the culprit. While we can’t undo the treatment effects, we can help YOU control the pain, instead of it controlling you. Understanding the pain in a biopsychosocial context can help you manage your pain and get you back to the life you love.

Progressive Goal Attainment Program (PGAP)

PGAP is an evidence-based treatment program aimed at reducing disability associated with pain, depression, cancer and other chronic health conditions. This is achieved through structured activity scheduling, graded activity involvement, goal setting, problem solving and motivational enhancement.

Polewalking

Urban Poling (also known as pole walking or Nordic walking) is a low impact type of physical activity that adds the use of poles into your walking routine. It has many benefits - involving multiple muscles into one workout while burning calories and helping with posture. Poles can be used to make walking more challenging (for fitness) or easier (for assistance in rehabilitation). It is a well-suited form of fitness for those recovering from cancer treatments including breast cancer, as it targets the upper body, core and muscles important for good posture. And it is FUN!

Additional Services Available On-Site

We collaborate with and are in close proximity to other health care professionals on-site to offer a comprehensive continuum of care. Other team members at Madison Square OrthoRehab Clinic include a Certified Lymphedema Therapist, Licensed Chiropractor, Podiatrist and Massage Therapist.