Alan David Richter – Physiotherapist | Hamilton, ON

Alan David Richter is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Revive Physiotherapy and Performance in Hamilton, ON, Alan Richter is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Alan Richter's focus is 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. Alan Richter serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Alan David Richter completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Alberta (Graduating Class of 2016). With clinical experience, Alan Richter is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Alan Richter has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Alan Richter employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting; empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results; promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Hamilton community through proactive physiotherapy. Alan Richter offers consultations in English, Hebrew.

Alan David Richter provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Post Surgical

• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): Restoring your ability to perform daily tasks, work, and recreational activities by addressing pain, stiffness, and weakness after your shoulder surgery.
• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): A carefully managed and individualized physiotherapy program to help you regain confidence in your spine, improve functional capacity, and prevent future issues after spinal surgery.
• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): Physiotherapy aimed at restoring movement, strength, and function after surgical repair of broken bones (e.g., Open Reduction Internal Fixation - ORIF, intramedullary nailing), once the fracture site is sufficiently healed and cleared for rehabilitation by your surgeon.

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.

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. Alan Richter can assess your needs.

• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Targeted manual methods performed by your Physiotherapist to release tight or overactive muscles, address fascial restrictions, and alleviate pain arising from soft tissue dysfunction.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Using therapeutic cold to manage the initial stages of an injury (e.g., sprains, strains) and control inflammatory responses, helping to limit tissue damage.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Utilizing targeted electrical currents to help alleviate pain, manage discomfort, and support healing in conjunction with other physiotherapy interventions.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: The application of specific wavelengths of light energy (cold laser) by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and accelerate tissue repair and regeneration at a cellular level.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Skilled hands-on techniques, including gentle joint mobilizations (smooth, rhythmic movements) and, where appropriate and authorized, joint manipulations (quick, precise thrusts) to restore optimal movement, reduce pain, and improve joint function.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Application of various forms of electrical stimulation, such as Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) for muscle strengthening and re-education, or Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) to assist with movement, as prescribed by your Physiotherapist.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Alan Richter, 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 Revive Physiotherapy and Performance, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Alan Richter frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Rediscover your ability to simply being able to get through a workday without constant pain interruptions without the constant burden of soreness and tightness in my Achilles tendon, especially after exercise. Alan Richter focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to a better understanding of ergonomics for their work and home environment, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
• Tired of trouble with everyday tasks because of pain or weakness in my hands or grip interfering with safely meeting the lifting requirements at their workplace? Alan Richter uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve the ability to manage symptoms independently if they occasionally recur and regain your freedom of movement.
• If difficulty getting out of a chair or bed due to stiffness or pain is preventing you from fully enjoying performing self-care tasks like hair washing or reaching their back, Alan Richter offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining being active again without the constant worry of pain or re-injury, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• Many individuals seek help from Alan Richter, their physiotherapist, when my infant having a tilted head or a flat spot on their head (torticollis/plagiocephaly) starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve being able to travel more comfortably and with less planning around physical limitations, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like comfortably cooking and meal prepping for their family.

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

Alan Richter practices at Revive Physiotherapy and Performance, situated in the Durand, Kirkendall South neighborhood of Hamilton. The clinic is conveniently located near Dundas Valley Conservation Area and is accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR). 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 typically do not need a doctor's referral to see a physiotherapist. This is known as "direct access." However, while a referral isn't legally required to see a physiotherapist, some private and extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement of services. It is strongly recommended that you check with your insurance provider to understand their specific requirements before your first appointment.

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

Physiotherapy services in private clinics are generally not covered by OHIP. OHIP may cover physiotherapy in specific situations, such as post-hospitalization for certain conditions or for specific populations (children/youth, seniors) through designated programs or Community Physiotherapy Clinics/Family Health Teams. Eligibility criteria are strict, and waitlists may exist. To determine your eligibility for publicly funded physiotherapy, contact OHIP directly. Most patients will need to rely on private or extended health insurance for coverage of physiotherapy services in private clinics. Always check your private insurance plan for coverage details.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, in almost all cases, you will receive a customized home exercise program. These exercises are carefully chosen by your Physiotherapist to specifically target your issues and help you achieve your functional goals faster and more effectively. Performing them as recommended is very important for your progress and for maintaining the improvements you make during your clinic visits.

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.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Initial assessment appointments are generally longer to allow for a thorough evaluation and discussion, typically lasting between 45 to 60 minutes. Subsequent follow-up treatment sessions are usually shorter, often ranging from 30 to 45 minutes. However, the duration can vary depending on your specific needs, the complexity of your condition, the type of treatment being provided, and the treatment plan designed by your Physiotherapist.

What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

Comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement is best for your physiotherapy appointment – think about what you might wear to a gym or for light exercise. If you're being treated for a lower-body issue (like hip or knee pain), shorts are very helpful. For upper-body issues (like shoulder or neck pain), a tank top or loose t-shirt is suitable so the Physiotherapist can properly examine and treat the area.

Revive Physiotherapy and Performance
2-318 Dundurn St South
Hamilton, ON, L8P 2M5

Phone: (289) 941-4878

Alan David Richter 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: XXX75

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=e34238be-9302-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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