Alphonsus Chan – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Alphonsus Chan is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at The Physio Approach in Toronto, ON, Alphonsus Chan is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Alphonsus Chan's role involves 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. Alphonsus Chan serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Alphonsus Chan completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Queen's University (Graduating Class of 2009). With extensive clinical experience, Alphonsus Chan is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Alphonsus Chan has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Alphonsus Chan 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 Toronto community through proactive physiotherapy. Alphonsus Chan offers consultations in Cantonese, English.

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

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Commonly known as 'wear-and-tear' arthritis, this condition affects various joints, often worsening with age, overuse, or previous injury, and can significantly impact daily function.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Conditions like 'jumper's knee' (patellar tendinopathy), 'swimmer's shoulder' (rotator cuff tendinopathy), or 'tennis elbow' (lateral epicondylitis) caused by tendon issues that limit your ability to perform specific tasks.

Arthritis

• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Supportive physiotherapy care for joint recovery and function after gout flares, focusing on restoring range of motion, reducing inflammation, and providing advice on joint protection and lifestyle factors.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Physiotherapy for ankylosing spondylitis focuses on maintaining spinal mobility and flexibility (especially extension), improving posture, strengthening core and back muscles, managing pain, and providing education on self-management and regular exercise.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Physiotherapy as an important part of a multidisciplinary team approach to managing rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory joint conditions (e.g., ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis), helping to minimize disease impact and maximize quality of 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. Alphonsus Chan can assess your needs.

• Therapeutic Heat Application: The use of moist heat packs, paraffin wax, or other heat sources by your Physiotherapist to relax muscles, increase local blood flow, reduce stiffness, alleviate chronic pain, and improve tissue extensibility.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: LLLT or 'cold laser' therapy to stimulate your body's natural healing processes, provide pain relief, and improve function in conditions like tendinopathies, arthritis, or soft tissue injuries.
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): A non-invasive, evidence-based treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing, reduce pain, and promote tissue regeneration in stubborn soft tissue conditions that haven't responded to other therapies.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Cold therapy techniques applied by your therapist to effectively alleviate acute pain, reduce inflammation, and manage muscle soreness or spasm.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): The therapeutic use of different electrical currents by your Physiotherapist to achieve specific physiological effects, such as improving muscle contraction, reducing atrophy, or enhancing functional movement.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Using therapeutic ultrasound as an adjunct treatment to help reduce pain, decrease inflammation, break down scar tissue, and accelerate the repair of injured soft tissues.

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

• Alphonsus Chan believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If recovering from surgery to my hand or wrist is hindering your ability to peacefully paddling their kayak or canoe on the lake for hours, a personalized plan focusing on increased flexibility throughout their body, particularly in their back and major joints can make all the difference.
• When facial weakness or drooping on one side (like Bell's Palsy) is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing getting back to golfing 18 holes without their back acting up, physiotherapy with Alphonsus Chan can help you work towards a safe and confident return to their favorite sport or recreational activity. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• It's truly rewarding for Alphonsus Chan to witness patients conquer swelling in my arm or leg, possibly lymphedema, after surgery or treatment and experience being able to play actively with their children or grandchildren again. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in dancing the night away at social events and family celebrations again.
• Are you finding that that persistent ache in my lower back that just won't quit stops you from enjoying playing in their competitive volleyball league again? Alphonsus Chan is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve decreased frequency and intensity of headaches related to neck or postural issues through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.

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

Alphonsus Chan practices at The Physio Approach, situated in the Newtonbrook, Willowdale neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

How can I book an appointment at The Physio Approach?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (647) 299-7728 during our business hours. Many of our practitioners also offer the convenience of online booking through our website at [website address]. Our friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable appointment time with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

The number of physiotherapy sessions required varies greatly from person to person. It depends on several factors, including the nature and severity of your condition, how long you've had the issue (acute vs. chronic), your individual treatment goals, your body's unique response to therapy, and how consistently you are able to follow your prescribed home exercise program and self-management advice. Your Physiotherapist will discuss a proposed treatment frequency and estimated duration after your initial assessment and will continually re-evaluate your progress with you.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

Your initial physiotherapy appointment is a comprehensive assessment. Your Physiotherapist will start by discussing your medical history, the details of your current symptoms or injury, your concerns, and what you hope to achieve with physiotherapy (your functional goals). This is followed by a thorough physical examination, which may include evaluating your range of motion, strength, posture, balance, and specific movement patterns, as well as performing special tests relevant to your condition. Based on these findings, your therapist will provide a clinical impression or diagnosis, discuss a personalized treatment plan with you, and often begin some initial treatment or provide education and a home exercise program to get you started.

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

Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows the Physiotherapist to easily access and assess the area being treated, and permits you to move freely for any exercises or movements. For example, shorts are ideal for knee, hip, or ankle issues, while a tank top or loose t-shirt works well for shoulder, neck, or upper back problems. Athletic wear or gym attire is generally a good choice. You may also be provided with a gown if needed.

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 of the population. 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. You should check your private insurance for private clinic coverage and verify your specific eligibility for any public coverage directly with OHIP.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Definitely. A key aspect of physiotherapy is not just treating current problems but also preventing future ones. A Physiotherapist can assess your movement, identify potential weaknesses or imbalances that could lead to injury, and provide you with a personalized program of exercises and strategies. This proactive approach is beneficial for athletes, individuals with physically demanding jobs, or anyone looking to maintain long-term musculoskeletal health and avoid recurring pain.

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.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Initial assessment appointments are generally longer (45-60 minutes). Follow-up sessions are usually shorter (30-45 minutes), but the duration can vary.

The Physio Approach
5775 Yonge Street, 1210
Toronto, ON, M2M 4J1

Phone: (647) 299-7728

Alphonsus Chan 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: XXX10

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=630ab3fb-8f02-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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