Alison Smith Metcalfe – Physiotherapist | Barrie, ON

Alison Metcalfe is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre in Barrie, ON, Alison Metcalfe is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Alison Metcalfe'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. Alison Metcalfe serves adults.

Alison Metcalfe completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 1999). With extensive clinical experience, Alison Metcalfe is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Alison Metcalfe has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Alison Metcalfe employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Alison Metcalfe utilizes a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Alison Metcalfe empowers patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Alison Metcalfe offers consultations in English.

Alison Smith Metcalfe 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): Specialized physiotherapy for conditions affecting the intricate structures of the hand and wrist, such as fractures (e.g., Colles', scaphoid), tendon lacerations or ruptures (e.g., flexor/extensor tendon repairs), ligament sprains/tears (e.g., skier's thumb, TFCC injuries), repetitive strain injuries, or arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis). Includes both conservative management and post-operative rehabilitation.
• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Helping to alleviate the symptoms of a catching, locking, or painful finger/thumb through targeted physiotherapy interventions, potentially avoiding the need for injections or surgery in some cases.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Aching, sharp, or deep pain in the hip that may worsen with activity, specific movements, or even at rest.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: Injury to muscle tissue that limits your strength, range of motion, and ability to perform specific movements or activities, requiring careful rehabilitation.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Aching, sharp, or persistent pain located in the lower back, which may sometimes extend into the buttocks or legs, limiting your comfort.
• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Symptoms in your hand or wrist that impact your ability to perform your job, hobbies, or essential self-care tasks, addressed by specialized hand physiotherapy.

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 Metcalfe can assess your needs.

• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Active patient participation through guided, gentle muscle contractions to restore normal joint play, reduce muscle guarding, and improve tissue length.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Developing control, strength, and endurance in your core musculature for improved functional performance, pain reduction, and prevention of re-injury.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Progressive resistance training programs designed by your Physiotherapist to improve muscle performance, support joint health, and enhance functional capacity for daily life or sport.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: A progressive approach to rebuilding your physical condition, allowing for a safe return to daily activities, work demands, and hobbies you enjoy.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Development of a tailored therapeutic exercise program by your Physiotherapist, focused on your specific rehabilitation needs, strength goals, flexibility improvements, balance, and overall conditioning.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Guided stretching routines and flexibility exercises prescribed by your Physiotherapist, aimed at improving your range of motion, reducing muscle tightness or stiffness, and enhancing overall movement quality.

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

• Many find that my child walking on their toes most of the time significantly impacts their ability to taking energetic, long walks with their dog every day. Alison Metcalfe helps patients target being active again without the constant worry of pain or re-injury with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• Living with an awkward gait or limping when I walk doesn't have to be your norm. Alison Metcalfe applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards a safe and confident return to their favorite sport or recreational activity, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of challenging myself with indoor or outdoor rock climbing.
• Patients often come to Alison Metcalfe feeling defeated by recovering from a painful and limiting work-related injury (WCB/CNESST/WorkSafe claim). With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving a significantly reduced risk of falling, enhancing safety and independence and resuming getting in and out of the car smoothly and without wincing becomes a realistic and attainable goal.
• For those whose managing stiffness, tremors, and movement challenges with Parkinson's disease has made being able to kneel or squat down to play with pets or children seem like a distant memory, Alison Metcalfe's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward getting back to hiking, running, or cycling pain-free and with renewed vigor. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to being able to kneel or squat down to play with pets or children with greater comfort and renewed confidence.

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

Alison Metcalfe practices at Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, situated in the Downtown Barrie, East Bayfield neighborhood of Barrie. The clinic is conveniently located near Georgian College and is accessible via Barrie Transit. Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

What are Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre's operating hours?

Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and some practitioners offer Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 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.

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

In Ontario, you can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a physician'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.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

It's difficult to say exactly how many sessions you'll need without a thorough assessment, as everyone's situation and recovery path is unique. Some acute conditions might resolve in just a few sessions, while more chronic, complex, or significant issues may require a longer period of care to achieve lasting results. Your Physiotherapist will provide an estimated treatment timeline and plan after your first visit, and this will be revisited as your treatment progresses.

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 demographics) but eligibility is strict. Check your private insurance for coverage.

Is there parking available at or near Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre?

Ample parking is available near Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre. Please check local signage for parking restrictions and rates.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your first appointment (assessment and treatment plan) usually takes about 60 minutes. Follow-up appointments are typically 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your needs.

Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre
201 Georgian Dr.
Barrie, ON, L4M 6M2

Phone: (705) 728-9802

Alison Smith Metcalfe 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: XXX72

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=da8b749f-8c02-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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