Barbara Jean Pollock – Physiotherapist | Hamilton, ON

Barbara Jean Pollock is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Hamilton Health Sciences, McMaster University in Hamilton, ON, Barb Pollock is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Barb Pollock'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. Barb Pollock also manages acute and chronic conditions affecting the heart and lungs, such as COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, post-operative cardiac or respiratory recovery, and post-COVID symptoms. This involves breathing exercises, airway clearance, exercise prescription, and education. Barb Pollock serves infants, children, and adolescents.

Barbara Jean Pollock completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 1994). With extensive clinical experience, Barb Pollock is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Barb Pollock has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy.

Barb Pollock's practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Hamilton community through proactive physiotherapy. Barb Pollock employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Barb Pollock empowers patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Barb Pollock offers consultations in English.

Barbara Jean Pollock provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Cardioresp

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Management (e.g., Chronic Bronchitis, Emphysema): Physiotherapy as a core component of pulmonary rehabilitation programs for COPD, including supervised exercise training (aerobic and strength), breathing techniques (e.g., pursed-lip breathing, diaphragmatic breathing), airway clearance techniques (if mucus is an issue), and education to help manage COPD symptoms, improve exercise tolerance, and enhance quality of life.
• Post-Pneumonia / Respiratory Infection Recovery: A structured physiotherapy program focusing on breathing exercises, graded activity, and airway clearance (if needed) to optimize your recovery post-respiratory infection.

Back Neck Pain

• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): A range of neck and related symptoms including pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and sometimes arm pain or cognitive difficulties, following a rapid acceleration-deceleration injury to the neck, most typically from a motor vehicle accident.
• 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.
• 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: A common cause of persistent back and neck pain due to the cumulative strain of prolonged sitting, standing, or performing tasks in non-ideal positions.

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. Barb Pollock can assess your needs.

• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Educating you about your diagnosis, expected recovery timeline (prognosis), and the reasons behind your treatment plan to encourage active participation in your healing.
• 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.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: A variety of hands-on methods such as therapeutic massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and active release style techniques to reduce muscle tension, break down scar tissue, improve circulation, and enhance tissue flexibility.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Detailed analysis of your static and dynamic posture, with tailored exercises, stretches, and advice to help you improve alignment and reduce strain on your body.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Application of precise, passive movements to joints to decrease stiffness, relieve pain, and facilitate easier, more comfortable movement.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: An in-depth examination to fully understand your specific condition, allowing your Physiotherapist to create an effective and personalized rehabilitation plan.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Barb Pollock, 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 Hamilton Health Sciences, McMaster University, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Barb Pollock frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Rediscover your ability to getting back to cycling for leisure or commuting without the constant burden of feeling unsteady on my feet or experiencing dizziness and balance problems. Barb Pollock focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to achieving personal fitness goals that once seemed out of reach, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
• For those whose widespread muscle pain and fatigue that my doctor thinks might be fibromyalgia has made handling their job that involves frequent standing, walking, or bending seem like a distant memory, Barb Pollock's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward reduced swelling and inflammation in injured areas. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to handling their job that involves frequent standing, walking, or bending with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• It's truly rewarding for Barb Pollock to witness patients conquer sharp pain shooting down my leg, feeling a lot like sciatica and experience enjoying cycling or swimming regularly without pain or limitation. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in simply being able to get through a workday without constant pain interruptions again.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from recovering from a painful and limiting work-related injury (WCB/CNESST/WorkSafe claim) and achieved feeling more resilient and less vulnerable to minor strains or injuries under the skilled care of Barb Pollock. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as playing in their competitive volleyball league again with a new lease on life.

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

Barb Pollock's practice at Hamilton Health Sciences, McMaster University is situated in the Corktown, Stinson neighborhood of Hamilton. The clinic is conveniently located near FirstOntario Centre and is accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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. Always check your private/extended health insurance plans, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics. Verify your specific eligibility for any public coverage directly with the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

Does Hamilton Health Sciences, McMaster University 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.

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 is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy involves skilled, hands-on treatments performed by your Physiotherapist as part of your overall physiotherapy plan. These techniques are designed to assess and treat your joints, muscles, and nerves to decrease pain and improve your mobility and function. Examples include specific joint mobilizations to improve movement, soft tissue release techniques to address muscle tightness or scar tissue, and sometimes manipulations (adjustments) if indicated and appropriate for your condition and your therapist's qualifications.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your first visit, the Physiotherapist will conduct a detailed evaluation to get a full picture of your condition. This usually involves a thorough discussion about your symptoms, how they impact your daily life, any relevant medical history, and your personal goals for therapy. A physical assessment will then be performed to help pinpoint the cause of your problem and assess your physical capabilities. Afterwards, your therapist will explain their findings, collaborate with you to set treatment goals, and outline a proposed plan of care. You'll likely receive some initial advice, exercises, or hands-on treatment to begin your recovery journey.

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 individual insurance policy before your first appointment.

What are Hamilton Health Sciences, McMaster University's operating hours?

Our clinic 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. However, hours can vary by practitioner and day, so please call our office or check our website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

Hamilton Health Sciences, McMaster University
1200 Main St. W.
Hamilton, ON, L8N 3Z5

Phone: (905) 521-2100

Barbara Jean Pollock 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: XXX46

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=6575466e-8b02-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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