Anne Mary Kukucka – Physiotherapist | Windsor, ON

Anne Mary Kukucka is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Windsor Regional Hospital in Windsor, ON, Anne is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Anne 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. Anne serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Anne Mary Kukucka completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Andrews University (Graduating Class of 1993). With extensive clinical experience, Anne is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Anne has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Anne's practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Windsor community through proactive physiotherapy. Anne employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Anne maintains a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best possible care. Anne offers consultations in English, Slovak.

Anne Mary Kukucka 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: Discomfort, aching, stiffness, or muscle fatigue in the back or neck arising from sustained or awkward postures during daily activities, prolonged work (e.g., desk work, computer use), or sleep.

Arthritis

• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Physiotherapy to address residual joint stiffness, pain, swelling, and functional loss after an acute gout attack has subsided, or to help manage musculoskeletal impairments and tophi-related issues associated with chronic gout, always in conjunction with appropriate medical management for urate control.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): A type of chronic inflammatory arthritis primarily affecting the spine (especially the sacroiliac joints and vertebrae), leading to pain, stiffness, and potential fusion of vertebrae, which can result in a stooped posture if not managed.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Aching, sharp, or deep pain in the hip that may worsen with activity, specific movements, or even at rest.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Pain, discomfort, or stiffness in the lumbar spine region, whether it's a sudden onset or a long-lasting issue affecting your daily life.

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. Anne can assess your needs.

• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Gentle, active manual therapy techniques where you use your own specific muscle contractions against your therapist's controlled resistance to improve joint mobility, lengthen tight tissues, and reduce pain.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Skilled hands-on techniques, including gentle joint mobilizations (smooth, rhythmic movements) and, where appropriate and authorized, joint manipulations (quick, precise thrusts) to restore optimal movement, reduce pain, and improve joint function.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Education on optimal body mechanics and corrective strategies to improve your posture during daily activities, work, and recreation.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Assessing your fundamental movement patterns to identify limitations, asymmetries, and potential risk factors for injury or re-injury.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Hands-on treatment focusing on your body's soft tissues to restore pliability, reduce discomfort, and optimize movement quality.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A thorough evaluation by your Physiotherapist to accurately diagnose movement dysfunctions, injuries, and the underlying sources of your pain.

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

• Rediscover your ability to attending and enjoying their children's or grandchildren's sporting events without the constant burden of breathing difficulties and shortness of breath with COPD or asthma, especially during activity. Anne focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to greater ease with dressing, bathing, and other self-care activities, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Anne's clinic, common concerns like pain in my shins when I try to run or be active (shin splints) are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of improved overall mobility, making it easier to navigate their home and community. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like performing tasks requiring fine motor skills and dexterity with ease.
• Don't let working on getting back to normal after a fracture or other surgery dictate what you can and cannot do. Anne offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at enhanced ability to participate in social and community events, helping you reclaim getting in and out of the car smoothly and without wincing and enjoy a more functional life.
• For those whose needing to improve my breathing patterns or lung capacity has made participating in light recreational activities like bowling or mini-golf seem like a distant memory, Anne's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward a deeper understanding of their condition and how to manage it proactively for long-term well-being. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to participating in light recreational activities like bowling or mini-golf with greater comfort and renewed confidence.

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

Anne practices at Windsor Regional Hospital, situated in the South Central Windsor neighborhood of Windsor. The clinic is conveniently located near Highway 3 Access and is accessible via Transit Windsor. Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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

Some temporary post-treatment soreness can be normal, much like after a good workout. However, if your pain significantly worsens, if you develop new concerning symptoms, or if the discomfort doesn't settle down within a day or two, please call us. Your Physiotherapist would want to know so they can offer guidance and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan. Open communication is key to your successful recovery.

What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

Comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement is best for your physiotherapy appointment – think about what you might wear to a gym or for light exercise. If you're being treated for a lower-body issue (like hip or knee pain), shorts are very helpful. For upper-body issues (like shoulder or neck pain), a tank top or loose t-shirt is suitable so the Physiotherapist can properly examine and treat the area.

Does Windsor Regional Hospital offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

While we do not offer direct billing at this time, we provide detailed official receipts that you can easily submit to your insurer for reimbursement according to your plan. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. Always confirm your specific coverage details, including any annual maximums, per-visit limits, or deductible requirements, directly with your insurance provider, as plans vary significantly. You are responsible for any portion not covered by your insurance.

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 (this is known as direct access). However, some private/extended health insurance plans do require a referral for reimbursement of physiotherapy services. Check your individual insurance policy before your first appointment.

What is Windsor Regional Hospital'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 (less than 24 hours' notice) or missed appointments without sufficient notice. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your appointment.

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.

Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?

It's helpful to bring your health card, any referral letters from other healthcare providers if you were referred, and any reports or images from relevant medical tests (X-rays, MRIs, etc.) related to your condition. If you have private insurance coverage for physiotherapy, please bring your insurance card or policy details for billing purposes. Comfortable attire that allows for easy movement during the assessment is also recommended.

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. Check your private insurance for private clinic coverage.

Windsor Regional Hospital
1995 Lens Ave.
Windsor, ON, N8W 1L9

Phone: (519) 254-1661

Anne Mary Kukucka 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: XXX27

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=eeac3d80-8b02-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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