Andrea Leigh Barrass – Physiotherapist | Ottawa, ON

Andrea Leigh Barrass is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at The Ottawa Hospital-Civic Campus in Ottawa, ON, Andrea is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Andrea'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. Andrea serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Andrea Leigh Barrass completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Ottawa (Graduating Class of 1997). With extensive clinical experience, Andrea is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Andrea has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Andrea's practice philosophy centers on a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Andrea Leigh Barrass offers consultations in English, French.

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

Back Neck Pain

• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Symptoms like 'neurogenic claudication' – leg pain, cramping, or heaviness with walking or prolonged standing that typically eases with rest or bending forward (flexion).
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Muscular pain, trigger points, and tension headaches resulting from habitual poor posture, which can be addressed with postural re-education, exercises, and ergonomic advice.
• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Back or neck pain that often radiates into an arm or leg, potentially with numbness, tingling, weakness, or burning sensations, due to a spinal disc problem (herniation, protrusion, or bulge) compressing or irritating a nearby nerve root (radiculopathy). Sciatica specifically refers to radicular pain down the leg.
• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Symptoms resulting from a whiplash injury, which can vary in severity (WAD Grades I-III) and duration, requiring a comprehensive physiotherapy approach for recovery.

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Conservative physiotherapy management for trigger digit, which may include splinting to rest the tendon, specific tendon gliding exercises, activity modification advice, modalities to reduce inflammation, and education to prevent recurrence.
• 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.

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 can assess your needs.

• 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.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): A common physiotherapy treatment for acute injuries, designed to help numb pain, decrease bleeding into the tissues, and minimize secondary hypoxic injury.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Evaluation of your body's basic movements (like squatting, lunging, reaching) to highlight areas for improvement in stability, mobility, and motor control.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: A comforting physiotherapy modality that helps to soothe tight muscles, decrease pain perception, and improve the flexibility of soft tissues.
• 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.
• 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.

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

• Through personalized physiotherapy at Andrea's clinic, common concerns like recovering strength and mobility after a knee or hip replacement surgery are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of better managing flare-ups with personalized strategies and feeling more in control of their symptoms. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like actively participating in family outings and vacations without holding others back.
• With Andrea's help, managing a child complaining of 'growing pains' that keep them up at night to achieve feeling equipped with effective self-management strategies and exercises becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty.
• Physiotherapy with Andrea can be a transformative turning point for those affected by needing help to get moving again after a long period of illness or inactivity. The shared goal is achieving a deeper understanding of their condition and how to manage it proactively for long-term well-being, paving the way for you to enjoy getting back to cycling for leisure or commuting and a more active, vibrant life.
• Rediscover your ability to setting up and taking down equipment for hobbies or sports without the constant burden of clicking, popping, or pain in your jaw (TMJ issues) when you eat or talk. Andrea focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to a safe and confident return to their favorite sport or recreational activity, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.

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

Andrea practices at The Ottawa Hospital-Civic Campus, situated in the Hintonburg, Civic Hospital, Westboro East neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near the University of Ottawa and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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

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 advised to check your private insurance for private clinic coverage.

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.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes, absolutely! Physiotherapy plays a significant role in injury prevention and managing recurring pain. Your Physiotherapist can identify underlying risk factors such as muscle imbalances, poor movement patterns, postural issues, or biomechanical inefficiencies. By addressing these through targeted exercises, education on proper body mechanics, ergonomic advice, and activity modification, physiotherapy can help reduce your risk of initial injury, prevent re-injury, and manage chronic conditions more effectively, keeping you active and healthy.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at The Ottawa Hospital-Civic Campus treat?

Physiotherapists at The Ottawa Hospital-Civic Campus treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including back and neck pain, joint problems (arthritis, post-surgical recovery), sports injuries, and nerve pain. They also address conditions such as Diastasis Recti (Abdominal Muscle Separation). Treatments often involve manual therapy, Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), Cryotherapy, and patient education.

The Ottawa Hospital-Civic Campus
1053 Carling Ave
Ottawa, ON, K1Y 4E9

Phone: (613) 798-5555

Andrea Leigh Barrass 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: XXX43

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=1d9ac81b-8c02-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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