Andrea Elizabeth Meade – Physiotherapist | Richmond Hill, ON

Andrea Elizabeth Meade is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Physelite in Richmond Hill, ON, Andrea Meade is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Andrea Meade 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. Andrea Meade 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. Andrea Meade serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Andrea Elizabeth Meade completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Toronto (Graduating Class of 2002). With extensive clinical experience, Andrea Meade is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Andrea Meade has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Pelvic Health Physiotherapy and Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Andrea Meade maintains a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Andrea Meade adopts a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Andrea Meade offers consultations in English.

Andrea Elizabeth Meade provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Pregnancy Postpartum

• 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: Physiotherapy to alleviate common aches and pains experienced by expectant mothers, helping them to enjoy a more comfortable pregnancy and prepare for labor.

Arthritis

• 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.
• 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.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Exercises and advice to manage the impact of gout on your joints, improve mobility, and reduce the likelihood of long-term joint damage.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): A physiotherapy approach to address the unique challenges of AS, aiming to keep you as mobile and active as possible and support your spinal health and overall well-being.

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. Andrea Meade can assess your needs.

• Chronic & Persistent Pain Management Programs: Comprehensive strategies developed with your Physiotherapist to help you understand and live better with chronic pain, focusing on improving function, reducing pain's impact, and enhancing self-efficacy rather than solely on pain elimination.
• Post-Natal (Postpartum) Rehabilitation: Helping you rebuild strength, stability, and confidence in your body during the postpartum period, addressing concerns like 'mummy tummy' or bladder leakage.
• Pre-Natal (Pregnancy) Physiotherapy: Addressing the unique physical demands of pregnancy with tailored physiotherapy interventions, helping you prevent issues and optimize your well-being.
• 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.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: Detailed physical assessment of your joints, muscles, nerves, and movement patterns to identify the root cause of your symptoms and guide your treatment.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Empowering you with a clear understanding of your condition, its causes, and practical tools for effective self-management and lasting relief.

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

• Many individuals seek help from Andrea Meade, their physiotherapist, when feeling generally stiff, achy, and less mobile than I used to be starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve successfully avoiding or delaying the need for more invasive treatments or surgery, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like travelling more comfortably on planes, trains, or in cars for longer durations.
• At Andrea Meade's physiotherapy practice, individuals with dealing with ongoing pain and stiffness after a car accident, like whiplash are guided towards a significantly reduced risk of falling, enhancing safety and independence. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as easily carrying groceries in from the car in one or two trips.
• Patients struggling with recovering from a concussion and dealing with lingering symptoms like dizziness or headaches can find dedicated and compassionate support from Andrea Meade. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving a return to intimacy without the fear of pain or discomfort, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as driving for longer periods without neck or back pain.
• Rediscover your ability to participating in light recreational activities like bowling or mini-golf without the constant burden of numbness, tingling, or weakness in my hands, arms, feet, or legs. Andrea Meade focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to being able to play actively with their children or grandchildren again, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.

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

Andrea Meade's practice at Physelite is situated in the Central Richmond Hill, Mill Pond neighborhood of Richmond Hill. The clinic is conveniently located near Bayview Secondary School and is accessible via York Region Transit (YRT) / Viva. Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

In physiotherapy, manual therapy encompasses a range of 'hands-on' interventions. Your Physiotherapist may use these techniques to help reduce your pain, increase joint movement, relax tight muscles, or improve the mobility of your nerves. Common approaches include joint glides, sustained pressures, specific soft tissue massage, and, when indicated, joint manipulations. It's a key part of helping your body move better.

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. It is strongly recommended to check your private insurance for private clinic coverage.

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 Physelite or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

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 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.

Physelite
12 - 120 Newkirk Road
Richmond Hill, ON, L4C 9S7

Phone: (647) 223-4848

Andrea Elizabeth Meade 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: XXX77

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=21c75235-8d02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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