Aftab Malik – Physiotherapist | Kingston, ON

Aftab Malik is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Kingston Health Sciences Centre in Kingston, ON, Aftab Malik is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Aftab Malik's practice focuses on addressing a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions. This includes everything from acute injuries like sprains and strains, to chronic pain management, arthritis care, and comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. Aftab Malik has a particular focus on the unique health needs of older adults, aiming to improve and maintain mobility, strength, balance, manage age-related conditions like arthritis or osteoporosis, reduce fall risk, and enhance overall quality of life and independence. Aftab Malik serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Aftab Malik completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Krupanidhi College of Physiotherapy (Graduating Class of 2006). With extensive clinical experience, Aftab Malik is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Aftab Malik has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and Geriatric Physiotherapy / Seniors' Health.

Aftab Malik's practice philosophy centers on a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals; and empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Aftab Malik offers consultations in English, Hindi, Panjabi, Punjabi, Urdu.

Aftab Malik provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Geriatric

• Mobility Issues & Gait Disturbances in Seniors: Addressing specific mobility challenges to enhance safety, reduce fall risk, and improve participation in life activities for older adults.
• Age-Related Deconditioning / Frailty / Sarcopenia Management: Helping seniors stay strong, mobile, active, and independent for longer through tailored exercise and functional rehabilitation programs.

Neurological

• Stroke (CVA) Rehabilitation: Comprehensive neurological rehabilitation provided by a Neuro Physiotherapist to help individuals regain independence, maximize their recovery potential, and adapt to any residual impairments following a stroke.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Symptom Management & Rehabilitation: Helping individuals with MS stay active, manage symptoms effectively, maintain independence for as long as possible, and adapt to changes in their condition.
• Parkinson's Disease Management & Movement Therapy: Specialized physiotherapy exercises and movement strategies (e.g., LSVT BIG® principles, amplitude-based training, cueing techniques) to improve balance, gait (walking), posture, flexibility, coordination, and overall motor function in individuals with Parkinson's Disease.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) / Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Rehabilitation: Comprehensive neurorehabilitation provided by a Physiotherapist to support functional recovery, improve independence in daily activities, and facilitate community reintegration after a head injury.

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. Diagnosis for physiotherapist is based on individual assessment, so if your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Aftab Malik can assess your needs.

• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: A non-invasive physiotherapy modality that uses sound energy to stimulate cellular activity, enhance circulation, and support tissue recovery from injury or inflammation.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: Application of therapeutic heat to prepare tissues for exercise, manual therapy, or stretching, or to manage chronic muscle soreness and joint stiffness.
• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: Utilizing traction techniques to create space within the spine, reduce nerve irritation, improve disc hydration, and alleviate back or neck pain.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Cold therapy techniques applied by your therapist to effectively alleviate acute pain, reduce inflammation, and manage muscle soreness or spasm.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Application of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) or Interferential Current (IFC) for managing acute or chronic pain conditions by modulating pain signals or promoting the release of endorphins.
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): A non-invasive, evidence-based treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing, reduce pain, and promote tissue regeneration in stubborn soft tissue conditions that haven't responded to other therapies.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Aftab Malik, or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Physiotherapists in ON and the standards set by The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.

At Kingston Health Sciences Centre, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Aftab Malik frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Rediscover your ability to shoveling snow or raking leaves without aggravating their back without the constant burden of my infant having a tilted head or a flat spot on their head (torticollis/plagiocephaly). Aftab Malik focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to improved joint health and a slowing of degenerative processes through better biomechanics, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
• Don't let experiencing discomfort, back pain, or pelvic girdle pain during or after pregnancy dictate what you can and cannot do. Aftab Malik offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at more comfortable and efficient movement when transitioning between positions (e.g., sit to stand), helping you reclaim managing shopping trips and carrying bags without excessive fatigue or pain and enjoy a more functional life.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of working on getting back to normal after a fracture or other surgery? Aftab Malik works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of developing better body awareness and understanding of healthy movement patterns. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty.
• Struggling with the frustration of feeling 'off-balance' and worried about falling, especially as I get older? Aftab Malik develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving a significantly reduced risk of falling, enhancing safety and independence. This is key to helping you get back to doing swimming laps at the pool for fitness and relaxation with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.

Your personalized physiotherapy plan, developed with Aftab Malik, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.

Aftab Malik practices at Kingston Health Sciences Centre, situated in the Downtown Kingston, Queen's University Area, Sydenham Ward neighborhood of Kingston. The clinic is conveniently located near Queen's University Campus and is accessible via Kingston Transit. Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Physiotherapist in ON?

In Ontario, you can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a doctor's referral. This is known as direct access. However, while a referral isn't legally required to see a Physiotherapist, some private/extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement. It's crucial to check your individual insurance policy's specific requirements before your first appointment.

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

It's not uncommon to experience some temporary soreness or a mild increase in symptoms after certain physiotherapy treatments, especially in the initial stages or if you're starting new exercises. This usually subsides within 24-48 hours. However, if you experience a significant or sharp increase in pain, new or worsening neurological symptoms (like numbness, tingling, or weakness), or if your soreness lasts longer than expected, it's important to contact Kingston Health Sciences Centre or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

Is physiotherapy covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

OHIP generally does NOT cover physiotherapy services in private outpatient clinics for most Ontarians. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available in specific situations (e.g., post-hospitalization for certain conditions, for children/youth, seniors, or through Community Physiotherapy Clinics/Family Health Teams), but eligibility criteria are strict and there may be waitlists. It's essential to check your private insurance coverage for private clinic physiotherapy services.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your first visit, the Physiotherapist will conduct a detailed evaluation to get a full picture of your condition. This usually involves a thorough discussion about your symptoms, how they impact your daily life, any relevant medical history, and your personal goals for therapy. A physical assessment will then be performed to help pinpoint the cause of your problem and assess your physical capabilities. Afterwards, your therapist will explain their findings, collaborate with you to set treatment goals, and outline a proposed plan of care. You'll likely receive some initial advice, exercises, or hands-on treatment to begin your recovery journey.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes, absolutely! Physiotherapy plays a significant role in injury prevention and managing recurring pain. Your Physiotherapist can identify underlying risk factors such as muscle imbalances, poor movement patterns, postural issues, or biomechanical inefficiencies. By addressing these through targeted exercises, education on proper body mechanics, ergonomic advice, and activity modification, physiotherapy can help reduce your risk of initial injury, prevent re-injury, and manage chronic conditions more effectively, keeping you active and healthy.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Absolutely! Home exercises are a vital part of your rehabilitation journey and empower you to take an active role in your recovery process. Your Physiotherapist will carefully select and teach you exercises specific to your needs. These exercises help to reinforce what's done in the clinic, manage your condition effectively, and ensure you continue progressing towards your goals even when you're not in a session.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

You can expect your initial physiotherapy visit to be around an hour long. This extended time allows for a comprehensive assessment of your condition and a collaborative discussion about your treatment goals. Subsequent follow-up sessions are generally between 30 and 45 minutes, though this can be adjusted based on your individual requirements. Your Physiotherapist will advise on the appropriate appointment length for your specific care.

Kingston Health Sciences Centre
76 Stuart Street
Kingston, ON, K7L 2V6

Phone: (613) 549-6666

Aftab Malik is regulated by the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Physiotherapy Act, 1991 in ON and is a registered member of The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.

Registration Number: XXX87

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=4ea61724-9502-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.