Alison Lam – Physiotherapist | Markham, ON

Alison Lam is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Markham Pelvic Health in Markham, ON, Alison Lam is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Alison Lam 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. Alison Lam also provides specialized assessment and treatment for conditions related to the pelvic floor and surrounding region for all genders. This includes issues such as incontinence, pelvic pain, pelvic organ prolapse, sexual dysfunction, and pre/post-natal concerns. Alison Lam serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

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

Alison Lam employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting; Alison Lam utilizes a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Alison Lam offers consultations in Cantonese, English.

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

Pregnancy Postpartum

• C-Section Scar Management and Abdominal Recovery: Physiotherapy techniques to improve the mobility, appearance, and sensation of a Caesarean section (C-section) scar, reduce associated pain, adhesions, or restrictions, and facilitate abdominal muscle recovery and core function.
• Diastasis Recti (Abdominal Muscle Separation) Assessment & Rehabilitation: Separation of the rectus abdominis muscles ('six-pack' muscles) along the midline (linea alba), often occurring during or after pregnancy. Physiotherapy focuses on assessment of the separation and functional core muscle rehabilitation.
• Pregnancy-Related Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP) / Low Back Pain / Sciatica: Supporting a more comfortable pregnancy journey by addressing musculoskeletal issues such as PGP, back pain, or nerve compression symptoms with tailored physiotherapy.
• Postpartum Pelvic Floor Dysfunction (e.g., Incontinence, Pain, Prolapse): Comprehensive postpartum physiotherapy rehabilitation to restore pelvic floor muscle strength, endurance, coordination, and overall pelvic health after delivery, often involving internal assessment and treatment by a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist.

Chronic Pain

• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) - Supportive Care: Physiotherapy for CRPS aims to manage severe pain, improve mobility and function, desensitize the affected limb, and promote normal use, often using techniques like graded motor imagery, mirror therapy, sensory discrimination training, and gentle graded exercise.
• Persistent Post-Surgical Pain (Chronic): Ongoing pain that continues for more than 3-6 months after a surgical procedure, well beyond the expected healing period, and is not attributable to other causes like infection or implant failure.
• Fibromyalgia: A chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep disturbances, memory and mood issues (often called 'fibro fog'), and tender points.
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome / Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) - Activity Management: Supporting individuals with CFS/ME to manage their symptoms, avoid PEM, and find sustainable ways to engage in activity, often in collaboration with other healthcare providers.

Pelvic Health

• Prostatitis Symptoms / Chronic Pelvic Pain in Men (Supportive Care): Physiotherapy interventions focusing on pelvic floor muscle relaxation, trigger point release (internal and external), nerve gliding, bladder retraining, and pain management strategies for men experiencing prostatitis-like symptoms such as perineal pain, urinary urgency/frequency, or pain with ejaculation.
• Pelvic Organ Prolapse (Conservative Management): Conservative management of pelvic organ prolapse symptoms, focusing on pelvic floor muscle strengthening and coordination exercises (Kegels), pessary guidance (if applicable), postural advice, and lifestyle modifications to reduce symptoms and improve support.
• Urinary Incontinence (Stress, Urge, Mixed - Men & Women): Physiotherapy for improved bladder control and pelvic floor function, helping you regain confidence and reduce the impact of incontinence on your daily life.

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. Alison Lam can assess your needs.

• 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.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Educating you about your diagnosis, expected recovery timeline (prognosis), and the reasons behind your treatment plan to encourage active participation in your healing.
• 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.
• Fibromyalgia & Widespread Pain Management: Tailored physiotherapy including gentle exercise prescription (e.g., aquatic therapy, graded aerobic exercise), pain management education, activity pacing strategies, stress reduction techniques, and gentle manual therapies for individuals living with fibromyalgia or other widespread pain conditions.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A complete assessment of your musculoskeletal system to pinpoint issues, set clear rehabilitation goals, and get you started on the path to recovery.
• Chronic & Persistent Pain Management Programs: Personalized physiotherapy programs designed to reduce the impact of chronic pain on your life, helping you to gradually increase activity levels and re-engage in meaningful activities.

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

• It's truly rewarding for Alison Lam to witness patients conquer trouble performing repetitive tasks at work without pain and experience feeling empowered to take control of their physical health journey. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in playing a few sets of tennis without shoulder pain again.
• Struggling with the frustration of persistent dizziness that isn't a spinning vertigo but makes me feel unsteady? Alison Lam develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving greater ease with dressing, bathing, and other self-care activities. This is key to helping you get back to doing cycling longer distances with their cycling club with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• With Alison Lam's help, managing feeling generally stiff, achy, and less mobile than I used to be to achieve enhanced pelvic floor function and control (for relevant conditions) becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema or a play.
• Alison Lam believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If an old ankle sprain that never seems to fully heal and still feels weak is hindering your ability to running their usual 5k route without knee pain, a personalized plan focusing on reduced muscle tension and a feeling of greater physical ease can make all the difference.

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

Alison Lam's practice at Markham Pelvic Health is situated in the Unionville (South), Buttonville, Milliken Mills West neighborhood of Markham. The clinic is conveniently located near Historic Unionville Village and is accessible via York Region Transit (YRT) / Viva. 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 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. Always check your private/extended health insurance plan, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy, delivered by a qualified Physiotherapist, is a science-based profession that focuses on restoring movement and function when someone is affected by injury, illness, or disability. It can also help to reduce your risk of future problems. Your physiotherapist will use techniques such as therapeutic exercise, manual therapy (hands-on treatment), education, and advice, empowering you to manage your health independently and achieve your physical goals.

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.

Does Markham Pelvic Health offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

While we do not offer direct billing at this time, we provide detailed official receipts that you can easily submit to your insurer for reimbursement according to your plan. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment and 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.

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.

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.

Markham Pelvic Health
202-7155 Woodbine Ave
Markham, ON, L3R 1A3

Phone: (905) 604-4591

Alison Lam 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: XXX59

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=78a94c2d-8259-ed11-9562-0022486df36c

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