Barbara Maria Stefanska – Physiotherapist | Ottawa, ON

Barbara Maria Stefanska is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Activa Physiotherapy Ottawa in Ottawa, ON, Barbara Stefanska is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Barbara Stefanska's practice focuses on 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. Barbara Stefanska serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Barbara Maria Stefanska completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Academy of Physical Education (Graduating Class of 1977). With extensive clinical experience, Barbara Stefanska is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Barbara Stefanska has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Barbara Stefanska's philosophy centers on a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Barbara Stefanska employs a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals, and empowers patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Barbara Stefanska offers consultations in English, Polish.

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

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Conservative physiotherapy management for trigger digit, which may include splinting to rest the tendon, specific tendon gliding exercises, activity modification advice, modalities to reduce inflammation, and education to prevent recurrence.
• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Physiotherapy to help you regain optimal use of your hand and wrist after an injury, surgery, or due to a chronic condition, enabling you to return to work, hobbies, and daily tasks.

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A chronic condition causing joint discomfort, stiffness (especially in the morning or after inactivity), and impacting your ability to perform daily activities, walk, or engage in hobbies.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Pain, tenderness, swelling, and dysfunction in a tendon (the strong cords that attach muscles to bones) due to overuse, repetitive strain, injury, or degeneration. Common sites include the Achilles, patellar tendon (knee), rotator cuff (shoulder), or elbow (tennis/golfer's elbow).

Common Musculoskeletal

• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or stiffness in the wrist, hand, or fingers, often resulting from overuse, repetitive tasks, arthritis, or specific conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or De Quervain's tenosynovitis.
• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Common knee complaints that can affect your ability to walk, climb stairs, squat, run, or participate in sports, addressed through a tailored physiotherapy program.

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. Barbara Stefanska can assess your needs.

• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Education and instruction on effective and safe stretching techniques to help you maintain or improve your body's flexibility and joint mobility.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: An in-depth examination to fully understand your specific condition, allowing your Physiotherapist to create an effective and personalized rehabilitation plan.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Developing control, strength, and endurance in your core musculature for improved functional performance, pain reduction, and prevention of re-injury.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Customized strength training to address specific weaknesses identified in your assessment, helping to correct imbalances, improve movement efficiency, and achieve your physical objectives.
• 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.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Evidence-based exercise programs designed by your physiotherapist, including instruction and progression, to optimize your recovery and enhance your physical well-being.

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

• Don't let trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury dictate what you can and cannot do. Barbara Stefanska offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at a reduction in nerve-related symptoms like tingling or numbness, helping you reclaim walking up and down several flights of stairs without issue or breathlessness and enjoy a more functional life.
• Patients often come to Barbara Stefanska feeling defeated by recovering from a burn and needing help with scar mobility and movement. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving being able to climb stairs with ease and confidence once again and resuming simply being able to get through a workday without constant pain interruptions becomes a realistic and attainable goal.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of hip pain when I walk, climb stairs, or try to sleep on my side? Barbara Stefanska works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of a smooth and confident transition back to their work duties. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as working on detailed woodworking projects in their shop without hand pain.
• If experiencing discomfort, back pain, or pelvic girdle pain during or after pregnancy is preventing you from fully enjoying getting back to cycling for leisure or commuting, Barbara Stefanska offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining less reliance on pain medication, trusting more in their body's ability to heal and function, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.

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

Barbara Stefanska practices at Activa Physiotherapy Ottawa, situated in the Rockcliffe Park, New Edinburgh, Lindenlea neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near Carlingwood Shopping Centre and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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

In Ontario, you can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a doctor's referral. This is known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for coverage of physiotherapy services. It is strongly recommended that you check with your insurance provider before your first appointment to understand their specific requirements.

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.

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.

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

Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows the Physiotherapist to easily access and assess the area being treated, and permits you to move freely for any exercises or movements. For example, shorts are ideal for knee, hip, or ankle issues, while a tank top or loose t-shirt works well for shoulder, neck, or upper back problems. Athletic wear or gym attire is generally a good choice. You may also be provided with a gown if needed.

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 outpatient clinics. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available through specific programs, such as post-hospitalization for certain conditions, for children/youth, seniors, or through Community Physiotherapy Clinics/Family Health Teams. However, eligibility criteria are strict and there may be waitlists. It is strongly recommended that you check your private or extended health insurance plan for coverage of physiotherapy services in private clinics.

Activa Physiotherapy Ottawa
200 Rideau Terrace, Suite 202
Ottawa, ON, K1M 0Z3

Phone: (613) 744-4188

Barbara Maria Stefanska 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: XXX80

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=9bac5e01-8a02-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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