Ansu Mary Mathew – Physiotherapist | Markham, ON

Ansu Mary Mathew is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Saint Elizabeth Health Care in Markham, ON, Ansu Mary Mathew is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Ansu Mary Mathew'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. Ansu Mary Mathew 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. Ansu Mary Mathew serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Ansu Mary Mathew completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University (Graduating Class of 2004). With extensive clinical experience, Ansu Mary Mathew is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Ansu Mary Mathew has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Pelvic Health Physiotherapy and Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Ansu Mary Mathew employs a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Ansu Mary Mathew empowers patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Ansu Mary Mathew promotes preventative care and long-term wellness for the Markham community through proactive physiotherapy. Ansu Mary Mathew offers consultations in English, Hindi, Tamil.

Ansu Mary Mathew provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Joint pain, aching, and functional limitation due to the progressive loss of cartilage, which physiotherapy can help manage through exercise, education, and pain relief strategies.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Conditions like 'jumper's knee' (patellar tendinopathy), 'swimmer's shoulder' (rotator cuff tendinopathy), or 'tennis elbow' (lateral epicondylitis) caused by tendon issues that limit your ability to perform specific tasks.

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): Helping to alleviate the symptoms of a catching, locking, or painful finger/thumb through targeted physiotherapy interventions, potentially avoiding the need for injections or surgery in some cases.

Back Neck Pain

• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Post-traumatic neck pain, restricted movement, and associated issues common after car accidents, which benefit from early and appropriate physiotherapy intervention.
• 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: Symptoms of nerve compression originating from the spine, such as a 'slipped disc' or 'pinched nerve', causing radiating pain, altered sensation, or muscle weakness in a limb.

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. Ansu Mary Mathew can assess your needs.

• Pre-Natal (Pregnancy) Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy support to help you stay active, comfortable, and strong throughout your pregnancy, addressing the physical challenges and changes your body undergoes.
• 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.
• Post-Natal (Postpartum) Rehabilitation: Supportive and restorative care to help new mothers regain core strength and function, restore pelvic floor health, manage musculoskeletal pain or weakness, and navigate the physical demands of caring for a newborn.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Application of skilled soft tissue techniques to manage pain, stiffness, and improve function in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Active patient participation through guided, gentle muscle contractions to restore normal joint play, reduce muscle guarding, and improve tissue length.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Specialized manual techniques aimed at restoring normal movement and function to peripheral nerves that may be compressed, adhered, or under tension.

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

• With Ansu Mary Mathew's help, managing that 'arthritic' pain in my hands, hips, or knees to achieve being active again without the constant worry of pain or re-injury becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like competing effectively in their curling league games.
• Don't let trouble performing repetitive tasks at work without pain dictate what you can and cannot do. Ansu Mary Mathew offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at less reliance on pain medication, trusting more in their body's ability to heal and function, helping you reclaim taking long photography walks to capture nature or cityscapes and enjoy a more functional life.
• If difficulty getting out of a chair or bed due to stiffness or pain is preventing you from fully enjoying dancing the night away at social events and family celebrations, Ansu Mary Mathew offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining a significant improvement in their overall quality of life and daily well-being, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• Struggling with the frustration of swelling in my arm or leg, possibly lymphedema, after surgery or treatment? Ansu Mary Mathew develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving feeling more like their 'old self' before their injury or condition began. This is key to helping you get back to doing standing for longer periods, for example, while cooking or at an event with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.

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

Ansu Mary Mathew practices at Saint Elizabeth Health Care, situated in the Unionville (South), Buttonville, Milliken Mills West neighborhood of Markham. The clinic is conveniently located near Markham District Veterans Association and is accessible via York Region Transit (YRT) / Viva. Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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

In Ontario, you typically do not need a doctor's referral to see a physiotherapist. This is known as direct access. However, while a referral isn't legally required to book an appointment, some extended health insurance plans may require one for coverage. It's crucial to check with your insurance provider before your first appointment to understand their specific requirements for physiotherapy reimbursement.

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.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Absolutely! Home exercises are a vital part of your rehabilitation journey and empower you to take an active role in your recovery process. Your Physiotherapist will carefully select and teach you exercises specific to your needs. These exercises help to reinforce what's done in the clinic, manage your condition effectively, and ensure you continue progressing towards your goals even when you're not in a session.

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 should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

The first physiotherapy session is primarily an in-depth assessment. Expect to spend time talking with your Physiotherapist about your specific issue, its history, and your overall health background. Your therapist will then perform various physical tests to assess your movement, strength, and any areas of concern. The main goal of this first visit is to understand your condition fully so that a tailored and effective treatment plan can be developed collaboratively with you. You might also receive your first set of home exercises or some initial hands-on care to start the healing process.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

While some physiotherapy techniques might feel uncomfortable or cause a temporary increase in soreness (similar to muscle soreness after a new workout), especially when working on stiff joints or tight muscles, it should not be excessively or intolerably painful. Your Physiotherapist will discuss what sensations you might expect with different treatments and will always aim to adjust the intensity and techniques to ensure you are as comfortable as possible while still achieving therapeutic benefits. Constant communication about your comfort level is very important.

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

The Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) generally does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available through specific programs, such as post-hospitalization care for certain conditions, or for children/youth and seniors through Community Physiotherapy Clinics/Family Health Teams. Eligibility requirements for these programs are quite strict, and there may be waitlists. Most Ontarians will need to rely on private insurance or pay out-of-pocket for physiotherapy services in private clinics. It is strongly recommended that you check your private insurance coverage before your appointment.

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

To make your first appointment as smooth and productive as possible, please consider bringing: your health card, any doctor's referral letter (if applicable), results or reports of any imaging tests (X-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs) related to your current condition, a list of any medications you are currently taking, and your extended health benefits information (insurance card/policy number) for direct billing if available at our clinic. Wearing comfortable clothes is also a good idea.

Saint Elizabeth Health Care
201-90 Allstate Pkwy
Markham, ON, L3R 6H3

Phone: (905) 944-1743

Ansu Mary Mathew 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: XXX10

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=dfdde853-8f02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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