Anish George Punnoose – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Anish George Punnoose is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Closing the Gap Healthcare in Toronto, ON, George Punnoose is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. George Punnoose 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. George Punnoose serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Anish George Punnoose completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Mangalore University (Graduating Class of 1998). With extensive clinical experience, George Punnoose is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. George Punnoose has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

George Punnoose promotes preventative care and long-term wellness for the Toronto community through proactive physiotherapy. George Punnoose adopts a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. George Punnoose offers consultations in English, Hindi, and Malayalam.

Anish George Punnoose provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Back Neck Pain

• 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.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Nerve compression symptoms due to a narrowing (stenosis) of the spinal canal or the small openings where nerves exit the spine (foramina), most commonly in the lumbar (lower back) or cervical (neck) regions.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Lower back issues that restrict your ability to bend, lift, sit for long periods, or enjoy your usual activities without discomfort.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Aching, soreness, or sharp pain experienced in the neck, which may include muscle spasms, trigger points, or reduced flexibility.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: Damage or tearing of muscle fibers, ranging from a mild overstretch (Grade 1 strain) to a partial or complete rupture (Grade 2 or 3 tear), typically caused by sudden forceful contraction, excessive stretch, or direct trauma.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: A 'rolled' or twisted ankle with subsequent swelling, tenderness, and difficulty putting your full weight on the foot.

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. George Punnoose can assess your needs.

• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: A non-invasive physiotherapy modality that uses sound energy to stimulate cellular activity, enhance circulation, and support tissue recovery from injury or inflammation.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): The application of cold packs, ice massage, or other cold modalities by your Physiotherapist to reduce swelling, inflammation, muscle spasm, and acute pain, particularly after an injury.
• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: Utilizing traction techniques to create space within the spine, reduce nerve irritation, improve disc hydration, and alleviate back or neck pain.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: Application of therapeutic heat to prepare tissues for exercise, manual therapy, or stretching, or to manage chronic muscle soreness and joint stiffness.
• 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.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: A non-invasive electrotherapy modality aimed at reducing pain, muscle guarding, or swelling, and sometimes used for muscle strengthening, as part of your physiotherapy treatment.

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

• Don't let difficulty coordinating my movements, feeling clumsy dictate what you can and cannot do. George Punnoose offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at greater ease in performing overhead activities or reaching, helping you reclaim getting back to their regular, consistent gym workouts and enjoy a more functional life.
• When that nagging tennis elbow (or golfer's elbow) that flares up with activity is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing getting back to cycling for leisure or commuting, physiotherapy with George Punnoose can help you work towards greater ease with dressing, bathing, and other self-care activities. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• Discover how physiotherapy with George Punnoose can help you move beyond awful foot pain first thing in the morning, like I'm walking on glass (plantar fasciitis). The focus is on a noticeable improvement in their gait and walking efficiency, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as enjoying long, challenging hikes on weekends again.
• Struggling with the frustration of recovering from a burn and needing help with scar mobility and movement? George Punnoose develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving a greater sense of body confidence and trust in their physical abilities. This is key to helping you get back to doing going on enjoyable fishing or camping trips again with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.

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

George Punnoose practices at Closing the Gap Healthcare, situated in the York Mills West neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near St. Lawrence Hall and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Please inquire regarding specific accessibility needs for our clinic. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at Closing the Gap Healthcare treat?

Our Physiotherapists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes, but is not limited to, issues like back and neck pain (Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (Men & Women)), joint problems (such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery), sports injuries, and nerve pain. We also have therapists with specialized skills in areas like Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and general physiotherapy. Our treatments often involve manual therapy, exercise prescription, Therapeutic Ultrasound Application, Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy), and patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.

What is Closing the Gap Healthcare's appointment cancellation policy?

We understand that schedules can change unexpectedly. To ensure we can accommodate all our patients efficiently, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer the time slot to other patients who may be waiting for care. A fee may be charged for late cancellations or missed appointments without sufficient notice. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your appointment.

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Physiotherapist in ON?

Patients in Ontario can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a physician's referral. However, some private/extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Essentially, physiotherapy helps you get moving and stay moving effectively and comfortably. Whether you're dealing with an acute injury, chronic pain, post-surgical recovery, or a condition affecting your physical abilities, your Physiotherapist will work with you. They'll use their expertise in body mechanics, rehabilitation, and pain management to create a personalized treatment plan involving exercises, hands-on techniques, and practical advice to help you achieve your functional goals and live a more active, fulfilling life.

Is physiotherapy covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

OHIP generally does NOT cover physiotherapy services in private outpatient clinics. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available in specific situations (e.g., post-hospitalization), but eligibility is strict. Check your private insurance for coverage.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, in almost all cases, you will receive a customized home exercise program. These exercises are carefully chosen by your Physiotherapist to specifically target your issues and help you achieve your functional goals faster and more effectively. Performing them as recommended is very important for your progress and for maintaining the improvements you make during your clinic visits.

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

It's not uncommon to experience some temporary soreness. However, if you experience a significant increase in pain, new or worsening neurological symptoms, or if your soreness lasts longer than expected, contact the clinic or your physician.

Closing the Gap Healthcare
35 The Links Road, Suite 202
Toronto, ON, M2P 1T7

Phone: (416) 226-6141

Anish George Punnoose 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: XXX29

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=b851f847-8f02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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