Alexandra Yanyu Chen – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Alexandra Yanyu Chen is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Centre in Toronto, ON, Alexandra Chen is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Alexandra Chen addresses 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. Alexandra Chen serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Alexandra Yanyu Chen completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Toronto (Graduating Class of 2017). With clinical experience, Alexandra Chen is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Alexandra Chen has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Alexandra Chen empowers patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results; 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. Alexandra Chen offers consultations in Chinese, English, Mandarin.

Alexandra Yanyu Chen provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Post Surgical

• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): Gentle and progressive physiotherapy rehabilitation following spinal surgery (e.g., for disc herniation, spinal stenosis, or spinal fusion), initiated once cleared by your surgeon, to improve mobility, core strength, posture, reduce pain, and safely return to daily activities.
• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: Comprehensive physiotherapy for knee ligament injuries post-operatively, focusing on restoring full knee function, power, and agility to meet your specific athletic or lifestyle demands.
• Post-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): The crucial rehabilitation phase following total or partial knee replacement surgery, with physiotherapy focusing on restoring range of motion, building strength, improving balance, managing pain and swelling, and enabling functional mobility (e.g., walking, stairs, getting in/out of a car).

Joint Pain

• 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.
• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage and underlying bone, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility in affected joints like the knees, hips, spine, or hands.

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. Alexandra Chen can assess your needs.

• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Comprehensive exercise plans developed by your Physiotherapist to combat deconditioning, enhance overall physical well-being, and promote an active lifestyle.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Developing muscular strength and endurance to aid in injury recovery, support affected joints, improve biomechanics, and enhance athletic performance or demanding physical tasks.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Specialized workouts to enhance your core strength, stability, and endurance, which are crucial for injury prevention, back health, and efficient performance in daily activities and sports.
• 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: Helping you understand how your posture impacts your musculoskeletal health and providing you with tools for lasting postural improvement and pain relief.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Teaching you essential strategies and exercises to manage your symptoms independently, accelerate recovery, and prevent future problems.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Alexandra Chen, 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 Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Centre, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Alexandra Chen frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Physiotherapy with Alexandra Chen can be a transformative turning point for those affected by working on getting back to normal after a fracture or other surgery. The shared goal is achieving waking up feeling more refreshed with considerably less pain and stiffness, paving the way for you to enjoy getting in and out of the car smoothly and without wincing and a more active, vibrant life.
• Patients often come to Alexandra Chen feeling defeated by that nagging tennis elbow (or golfer's elbow) that flares up with activity. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving feeling more resilient and less vulnerable to minor strains or injuries and resuming actively participating in family outings and vacations without holding others back becomes a realistic and attainable goal.
• When trouble with everyday tasks because of pain or weakness in my hands or grip is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing dancing the night away at social events and family celebrations, physiotherapy with Alexandra Chen can help you work towards feeling more positive, capable, and optimistic about their physical health. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• Many individuals seek help from Alexandra Chen, their physiotherapist, when feeling like my posture is hunched or rounded, causing discomfort starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve a feeling of being 'unstuck' and more supple, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like setting up and taking down equipment for hobbies or sports.

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

Alexandra Chen practices at Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Centre, situated in the Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near US Consulate and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

Does Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Centre offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Centre offers direct billing for most major private insurance companies such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, Blue Cross, etc. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. Always confirm your specific coverage details, including any annual maximums, per-visit limits, or deductible requirements, directly with your insurance provider, as plans vary significantly. You are responsible for any portion not covered by your insurance.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

The primary goal of physiotherapy is generally to reduce pain and improve function, not to cause significant or lasting pain. Some assessment techniques or specific treatments (like deep soft tissue work, joint mobilization, or certain exercises) might cause mild, temporary discomfort or soreness, especially if the tissues being treated are sensitive, inflamed, or very stiff. However, your Physiotherapist will always work within your tolerance levels, communicate clearly about what to expect, and encourage open feedback. If you experience notable or unacceptable pain during treatment, please inform your therapist immediately so adjustments can be made to ensure your comfort.

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 (direct access). However, some private/extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

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

OHIP generally does NOT cover physiotherapy services in private outpatient clinics. 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. Check your private insurance for coverage.

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 Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Centre or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

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 types of conditions do Physiotherapists at Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Centre treat?

Our Physiotherapists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. This includes, but is not limited to, back and neck pain, joint problems (such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery), sports injuries, and nerve pain. We also have therapists with specialized skills in areas like Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy. Our treatments often involve manual therapy, exercise prescription, and patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.

Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Centre
550 University Ave.
Toronto, ON, M5G 2A2

Phone: (416) 597-3422

Alexandra Yanyu Chen 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: XXX90

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=5f201ed6-9302-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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