Andrew Rajtek – Physiotherapist | Bracebridge, ON

Andrew Rajtek is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Total Balance Physiotherapy in Bracebridge, ON, Andrew Rajtek is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Andrew Rajtek 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. Andrew Rajtek serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Andrew Rajtek completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Western University (Graduating Class of 2001). With clinical experience, Andrew Rajtek is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Andrew Rajtek has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Andrew Rajtek empowers patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results; promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Bracebridge community through proactive physiotherapy; a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Andrew Rajtek offers consultations in English.

Andrew Rajtek 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): 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.

Arthritis

• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Specific exercises (e.g., McKenzie exercises, stretching, postural exercises) and strategies to help individuals with ankylosing spondylitis maintain function, reduce stiffness, and prevent long-term spinal changes.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Helping you live well with rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory arthropathies through targeted physiotherapy interventions designed to manage symptoms, preserve function, and promote overall well-being.
• 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.

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. Andrew Rajtek can assess your needs.

• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Graded exercise programs designed to improve your overall physical fitness, endurance, strength, and functional capacity, especially beneficial after illness, surgery, or periods of prolonged inactivity.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: The application of specific wavelengths of light energy (cold laser) by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and accelerate tissue repair and regeneration at a cellular level.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Personalized programs incorporating various stretching techniques (e.g., static, dynamic, PNF) to alleviate stiffness, increase tissue extensibility, and promote better posture.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Targeted exercises focused on strengthening the deep abdominal, back, pelvic floor, and diaphragm muscles to provide better support for your spine, improve posture, enhance balance, and increase movement efficiency.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Cold therapy techniques applied by your therapist to effectively alleviate acute pain, reduce inflammation, and manage muscle soreness or spasm.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: The application of high-frequency sound waves by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to promote deep tissue heating, increase local blood flow, reduce pain, and facilitate the healing process in soft tissues like muscles, tendons, or ligaments.

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

• Many find that shoulder pain that makes simple things like lifting my arm or reaching overhead difficult significantly impacts their ability to playing a full game of recreational hockey with their friends. Andrew Rajtek helps patients target experiencing significant pain relief, allowing for a more comfortable daily life with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Andrew Rajtek can help you move beyond one leg feeling shorter than the other, causing hip or back pain. The focus is on a significant improvement in their overall quality of life and daily well-being, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as dancing the night away at social events and family celebrations.
• Living with trouble with a constantly stiff and sore neck, making turning my head a pain doesn't have to be your norm. Andrew Rajtek applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards getting their strength back after surgery or a period of inactivity, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of spending hours gardening comfortably, without subsequent back or knee strain.
• With Andrew Rajtek's help, managing that 'arthritic' pain in my hands, hips, or knees to achieve improved overall mobility, making it easier to navigate their home and community becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like maintaining an upright posture while working on their computer for hours.

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

Andrew Rajtek's practice at Total Balance Physiotherapy is situated in a physiotherapy clinic in the central Bracebridge neighborhood of Bracebridge. The clinic is conveniently located near nearby parks and community recreation facilities and is accessible via local public transit routes. Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

You can expect your initial physiotherapy visit to be around an hour long. This extended time allows for a comprehensive assessment of your condition and a collaborative discussion about your treatment goals. Subsequent follow-up sessions are generally between 30 and 45 minutes, though this can be adjusted based on your individual requirements. Your Physiotherapist will advise on the appropriate appointment length for your specific care.

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, known as direct access. However, while a referral isn't legally required to see a Physiotherapist, some private/extended health insurance plans require one for reimbursement. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

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 children/youth, seniors, or through Community Physiotherapy Clinics/Family Health Teams), but eligibility is strict, and waitlists may exist. Check your private insurance for coverage.

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

Some temporary post-treatment soreness is normal. However, if your pain significantly worsens, you develop new symptoms, or discomfort doesn't subside within a day or two, contact the clinic. Your Physiotherapist will offer guidance and adjust your care plan if needed.

What are Total Balance Physiotherapy's operating hours?

Total Balance Physiotherapy 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. Hours may vary; call the office or check their website for the most current hours and practitioner availability.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy helps you move and stay moving effectively and comfortably. Whether you have an acute injury, chronic pain, post-surgical recovery needs, or a condition affecting your physical abilities, your Physiotherapist will create a personalized treatment plan involving exercises, hands-on techniques, and advice to help you achieve your functional goals and live a more active life.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

The number of sessions varies greatly depending on the nature and severity of your condition, its duration, your goals, your body's response to therapy, and your adherence to home exercises. Your Physiotherapist will discuss a proposed treatment plan after your initial assessment and re-evaluate your progress.

Total Balance Physiotherapy
2 - 36 McDonald Street
Bracebridge, ON, P1L 2C2

Phone: (705) 646-2299

Andrew Rajtek 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: XXX90

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=a989cf67-8d02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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