Alison Ferguson – Physiotherapist | Burlington, ON

Alison Ferguson is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Fit For Life Physiotherapy in Burlington, ON, Ally Ferguson is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Ally Ferguson's approach 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. Ally Ferguson serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Alison Ferguson completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 2022). With clinical experience, Ally Ferguson is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Ally Ferguson has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Ally Ferguson employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting; a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Ally Ferguson offers consultations in English.

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

Hand Wrist

• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Focused physiotherapy care for complex hand and wrist problems, often involving custom splinting or orthosis fabrication, manual therapy (joint and soft tissue mobilization), specific exercises to restore dexterity, strength, and range of motion, scar management, and sensory re-education.
• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Addressing the inflammation, pain, and restricted movement associated with stenosing tenosynovitis of the finger or thumb.

Back Neck Pain

• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Symptoms resulting from a whiplash injury, which can vary in severity (WAD Grades I-III) and duration, requiring a comprehensive physiotherapy approach for recovery.
• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Symptoms of nerve compression originating from the spine, such as a 'slipped disc' or 'pinched nerve', causing radiating pain, altered sensation, or muscle weakness in a limb.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Discomfort, aching, stiffness, or muscle fatigue in the back or neck arising from sustained or awkward postures during daily activities, prolonged work (e.g., desk work, computer use), or sleep.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Nerve compression symptoms due to a narrowing (stenosis) of the spinal canal or the small openings where nerves exit the spine (foramina), most commonly in the lumbar (lower back) or cervical (neck) regions.

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. Ally Ferguson can assess your needs.

• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: A non-invasive electrotherapy modality aimed at reducing pain, muscle guarding, or swelling, and sometimes used for muscle strengthening, as part of your physiotherapy treatment.
• 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.
• 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.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: Utilizing therapeutic laser to enhance tissue regeneration, reduce pain signals, and manage inflammation as part of your comprehensive physiotherapy care.
• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: Therapeutic traction for the cervical (neck) or lumbar (low back) spine, used by physiotherapists to help reduce pain, decompress nerve roots, and improve symptoms associated with conditions like disc herniations, sciatica, or spinal stenosis.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Ultrasound therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, often used to prepare tissues for manual therapy or exercise, or to manage acute and chronic soft tissue injuries.

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

• Patients struggling with my infant having a tilted head or a flat spot on their head (torticollis/plagiocephaly) can find dedicated and compassionate support from Ally Ferguson. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving enhanced recovery from post-surgical procedures with fewer complications, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as standing for longer periods, for example, while cooking or at an event.
• Ally Ferguson believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If dealing with ongoing pain and stiffness after a car accident, like whiplash is hindering your ability to working at their desk all day without developing back or neck stiffness, a personalized plan focusing on understanding how to prevent future flare-ups and manage their condition long-term can make all the difference.
• Physiotherapy with Ally Ferguson can be a transformative turning point for those affected by aches and pains that I'm pretty sure are from my bad posture at my desk. The shared goal is achieving successfully integrating safe movement strategies into their daily routines, paving the way for you to enjoy cycling longer distances with their cycling club and a more active, vibrant life.
• If my baby/child having trouble with their motor skills, like delayed rolling, sitting or walking is preventing you from fully enjoying managing shopping trips and carrying bags without excessive fatigue or pain, Ally Ferguson offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining feeling more stable and confident on their feet, especially on uneven surfaces, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.

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

Ally Ferguson practices at Fit For Life Physiotherapy, situated in the Tyandaga, Aldershot North neighborhood of Burlington. The clinic is conveniently located near Burlington GO Station and is accessible via Burlington Transit. Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your first physiotherapy appointment, which includes a detailed assessment and the development of your initial treatment plan, usually takes about 60 minutes. Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled for 30 to 45 minutes. The exact duration of each session will depend on the nature of your treatment and what your Physiotherapist has planned for that specific visit to best help you progress.

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

For your first visit, please bring your provincial health card (e.g., Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) card, if applicable for any publicly funded programs or simply for identification), any relevant medical information such as a doctor's referral note (if you have one), reports from recent imaging (like X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound scans), and a list of your current medications. Also, if you plan to use private health insurance, bring your insurance card or policy details. Finally, wear or bring comfortable clothing suitable for assessment and movement.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at Fit For Life Physiotherapy treat?

Our Physiotherapists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including but not limited to back and neck pain, joint problems (such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery), sports injuries, and nerve pain. Ally Ferguson's expertise in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy allows for specialized care in these areas. Treatments often involve manual therapy, Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy, Therapeutic Heat Application, and exercise prescription to help patients achieve their functional goals.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

Physiotherapy should not be an ordeal of pain. While you might feel some discomfort or a stretching sensation as you work to regain movement or strength, especially in the initial stages of treatment for an acute injury or chronic stiffness, it's rarely 'painful' in a distressing or harmful way. Your Physiotherapist will guide you through each step, modify treatments to suit your comfort and tolerance, and ensure that the overall experience is positive. The ultimate aim is to make you feel better, not worse.

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 health insurance plans may require a referral for coverage. It's best to check with your insurance provider 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 demographics) but eligibility is strict. Check your private insurance for coverage, as many plans offer significant benefits for physiotherapy in private clinics.

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

Comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement is best. Shorts are helpful for lower-body treatments, and a tank top or loose t-shirt is suitable for upper-body treatments.

Fit For Life Physiotherapy
4 - 18 Plains Road West
Burlington, ON, L7T 0B3

Phone: (905) 333-3488

Alison Ferguson 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=00107ce1-fe17-ed11-b83f-002248d51760

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