Agnes Brunne – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Agnes Brunne is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at University Health Network, Toronto GH in Toronto, ON, Agnes Brunne is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Agnes Brunne's focus is managing acute and chronic conditions affecting the heart and lungs, such as COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, post-operative cardiac or respiratory recovery, and post-COVID symptoms. Agnes Brunne's practice involves breathing exercises, airway clearance, exercise prescription, and education. Agnes Brunne serves adults.

Agnes Brunne completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Toronto (Graduating Class of 1997). With extensive clinical experience, Agnes Brunne is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Agnes Brunne has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy.

Agnes Brunne employs a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Agnes Brunne demonstrates a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Agnes Brunne empowers patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Agnes Brunne offers consultations in English, Polish.

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

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Joint pain, aching, and functional limitation due to the progressive loss of cartilage, which physiotherapy can help manage through exercise, education, and pain relief strategies.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Inflammation (tendinitis) or, more commonly, degeneration (tendinosis/tendinopathy) of tendons, leading to localized pain that typically worsens with activity or loading of the tendon.

Cardioresp

• Post-Pneumonia / Respiratory Infection Recovery: Helping you get back on your feet, improve your stamina, and restore your respiratory health after a severe chest infection.
• Asthma Management (Exercise-Induced & General Support): Physiotherapy support for asthma management, including education on proper inhaler technique, breathing control exercises (e.g., to manage acute symptoms or anxiety during an attack), strategies to improve exercise tolerance and manage EIB, and general fitness advice.
• Bronchiectasis Management (Airway Clearance): A chronic lung condition where the airways (bronchi) become permanently widened and damaged, leading to mucus buildup, recurrent chest infections, chronic cough, and breathlessness. Physiotherapy focuses primarily on airway clearance techniques.

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. Agnes Brunne can assess your needs.

• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): A systematic screening process, such as FMS™ or SFMA™ (if your Physiotherapist is certified), to understand how you move and guide preventative or corrective exercise programs.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Identifying and addressing habitual postures (e.g., from desk work, phone use) or ergonomic factors that may be contributing to your pain or dysfunction.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Gentle, specific movements and mobilizations designed to address nerve-related pain (like sciatica or carpal tunnel symptoms), tingling, numbness, or restrictions by improving the nerve's ability to glide freely and reducing irritation.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Using controlled isometric and isotonic muscle contractions, as directed by your Physiotherapist, to address joint restrictions and muscle imbalances effectively.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: An in-depth examination to fully understand your specific condition, allowing your Physiotherapist to create an effective and personalized rehabilitation plan.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Providing clear guidance on self-care techniques, activity modifications, and beneficial lifestyle adjustments for long-term well-being and injury prevention.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Agnes Brunne, 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 University Health Network, Toronto GH, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Agnes Brunne frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Patients often come to Agnes Brunne feeling defeated by trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving enjoying cycling or swimming regularly without pain or limitation and resuming keeping up with their team during our weekly soccer match becomes a realistic and attainable goal.
• Rediscover your ability to hitting the slopes for a full day of skiing or snowboarding in winter without the constant burden of trouble with everyday tasks because of pain or weakness in my hands or grip. Agnes Brunne focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to improved hand and wrist function for tasks requiring dexterity, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
• With Agnes Brunne's help, managing an old ankle sprain that never seems to fully heal and still feels weak to achieve increased flexibility throughout their body, particularly in their back and major joints becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like participating in light recreational activities like bowling or mini-golf.
• The journey to implementing practical strategies to avoid re-injury during work or daily life when faced with persistent difficulty moving one side of my body or walking easily after a stroke is made smoother and more effective with Agnes Brunne's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like participating fully in their martial arts practice, including sparring.

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

Agnes Brunne practices at University Health Network, Toronto GH, located in the Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Yonge-Dundas Square and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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 of the population. 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. Always check your private/extended health insurance plan, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

What are University Health Network, Toronto GH's operating hours?

University Health Network, Toronto GH is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. However, hours can vary by practitioner and day, so please call the clinic or check their website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?

It's helpful to bring your health card, any referral letters from other healthcare providers if you were referred, and any reports or images from relevant medical tests (X-rays, MRIs, etc.) related to your condition. If you have private insurance coverage for physiotherapy, please bring your insurance card or policy details for billing purposes. Comfortable attire that allows for easy movement during the assessment is also recommended.

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

Some temporary post-treatment soreness can be normal, much like after a good workout. However, if your pain significantly worsens, if you develop new concerning symptoms, or if the discomfort doesn't settle down within a day or two, please call the clinic. Your Physiotherapist would want to know so they can offer guidance and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan. Open communication is key to your successful recovery.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

While some physiotherapy techniques might feel uncomfortable or cause a temporary increase in soreness (similar to muscle soreness after a new workout), especially when working on stiff joints or tight muscles, it should not be excessively or intolerably painful. Your Physiotherapist will discuss what sensations you might expect with different treatments and will always aim to adjust the intensity and techniques to ensure you are as comfortable as possible while still achieving therapeutic benefits. Constant communication about your comfort level is very important.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy involves skilled, hands-on treatments performed by your Physiotherapist as part of your overall physiotherapy plan. These techniques are designed to assess and treat your joints, muscles, and nerves to decrease pain and improve your mobility and function. Examples include specific joint mobilizations to improve movement, soft tissue release techniques to address muscle tightness or scar tissue, and sometimes manipulations (adjustments) if indicated and appropriate for your condition and your therapist's qualifications.

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

Patients in ON can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a physician's referral (direct access). However, some private/extended health insurance plans require a referral for reimbursement. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

University Health Network, Toronto GH
200 Elizabeth St.
Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4

Phone: (416) 340-3131

Agnes Brunne 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: XXX25

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=5f07e8fd-8b02-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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