Alyson Heather Michalko – Physiotherapist | St. Catharines, ON

Alyson Heather Michalko is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Resident Physiotherapist). Practicing at Lost 'n Found Yoga in St. Catharines, ON, Alyson is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Alyson 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. Alyson serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Alyson Heather Michalko completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Keele University (Graduating Class of 2024). With clinical experience, Alyson is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Alyson has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Alyson employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting; a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals; a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Alyson offers consultations in English.

Alyson Heather Michalko provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Arthritis

• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): An inflammatory arthritis that can affect some people with psoriasis (a skin condition), causing joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and sometimes affecting tendons (enthesitis) and ligaments. Can affect small or large joints, often asymmetrically, and sometimes the spine.
• 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.

Hand Wrist

• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Managing a variety of acute and chronic conditions of the hand and wrist, aiming to reduce pain, improve function, and prevent long-term disability.
• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): A condition where a finger or thumb gets stuck or 'catches' in a bent position, then may snap straight (like pulling a trigger). Caused by inflammation and narrowing of the tendon sheath around the flexor tendon.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Hip problems that interfere with your mobility, sleep, and daily comfort, which can be effectively managed with physiotherapy interventions.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Weakness, a feeling of the ankle 'giving way' repeatedly, or persistent pain after an initial sprain, indicating a need for targeted physiotherapy to restore stability and function.

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. Alyson can assess your needs.

• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Cold therapy techniques applied by your therapist to effectively alleviate acute pain, reduce inflammation, and manage muscle soreness or spasm.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Improving the mobility and health of your nervous system to reduce pain, restore sensation, and enhance overall function.
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): Targeted shockwave application to promote tissue regeneration, modulate pain, and improve function in chronic injuries, often with lasting results.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: A comforting physiotherapy modality that helps to soothe tight muscles, decrease pain perception, and improve the flexibility of soft tissues.
• 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.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Employing different types of electrotherapy to support your rehabilitation goals, including promoting tissue healing or improving motor control.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Alyson, 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 Lost 'n Found Yoga, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Alyson frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• The journey to a more comfortable and physically manageable pregnancy experience when faced with persistent needing to improve my breathing patterns or lung capacity is made smoother and more effective with Alyson's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like maintaining an upright posture while working on their computer for hours.
• Don't let shoulder pain that makes simple things like lifting my arm or reaching overhead difficult dictate what you can and cannot do. Alyson offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at greater ease in performing overhead activities or reaching, helping you reclaim tackling home renovation and DIY projects with confidence and enjoy a more functional life.
• Are you finding that an old ankle sprain that never seems to fully heal and still feels weak stops you from enjoying dancing the night away at social events and family celebrations? Alyson is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve getting back to hiking, running, or cycling pain-free and with renewed vigor through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.
• The path to recovery from that 'arthritic' pain in my hands, hips, or knees and achieving a noticeable reduction in daily discomfort, making everyday tasks easier and more enjoyable for resuming their weightlifting routine at the gym safely often starts with expert guidance. Alyson, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.

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

Alyson practices at Lost 'n Found Yoga, situated in the Grantham, Port Weller neighborhood of St. Catharines. The clinic is conveniently located near Royal Canadian Henley Regatta Course and is accessible via Niagara Region Transit (NRT). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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 Lost 'n Found Yoga or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

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.

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. Always check your private/extended health insurance plans, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy refers to specialized hands-on techniques used by a Physiotherapist to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. This can include joint mobilization (gentle, rhythmic gliding movements), joint manipulation (skilled, high-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts, where appropriate and within the therapist's scope and with your consent), various soft tissue mobilization techniques (like massage, myofascial release, trigger point release), and neural mobilization (gentle techniques to improve nerve movement). The primary goals are to reduce pain, improve range of motion, restore optimal joint mechanics, reduce muscle tension, and enhance tissue repair and function.

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.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your first visit, the Physiotherapist will conduct a detailed evaluation to get a full picture of your condition. This usually involves a thorough discussion about your symptoms, how they impact your daily life, any relevant medical history, and your personal goals for therapy. A physical assessment will then be performed to help pinpoint the cause of your problem and assess your physical capabilities. Afterwards, your therapist will explain their findings, collaborate with you to set treatment goals, and outline a proposed plan of care. You'll likely receive some initial advice, exercises, or hands-on treatment to begin your recovery journey.

What are Lost 'n Found Yoga's operating hours?

Lost 'n Found Yoga 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.

Lost 'n Found Yoga
400 Scott Street
St. Catharines, ON, L2M 3W2

Phone: (905) 682-4469

Alyson Heather Michalko 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: XXX91

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=31c0559e-7795-ef11-8a68-6045bd5da934

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