Bettina Christiane von Kampen – Physiotherapist | Hamilton, ON

Bettina Christiane von Kampen is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton in Hamilton, ON, Bettina von Kampen is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Bettina von Kampen 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. Bettina von Kampen serves adults.

Bettina Christiane von Kampen completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Manitoba (Graduating Class of 1989). With extensive clinical experience, Bettina von Kampen is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Bettina von Kampen has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Bettina von Kampen's practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Hamilton community through proactive physiotherapy. Bettina von Kampen adopts a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Bettina von Kampen offers consultations in English, German.

Bettina Christiane von Kampen provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Hand Wrist

• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Focused physiotherapy care for complex hand and wrist problems, often involving custom splinting or orthosis fabrication, manual therapy (joint and soft tissue mobilization), specific exercises to restore dexterity, strength, and range of motion, scar management, and sensory re-education.
• 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.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): A broad term for common injuries affecting muscles, tendons (tendinitis/tendinopathy), ligaments (sprains), joint capsules (capsulitis), and bursae (bursitis), leading to pain, inflammation, and functional limitations.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Common ankle injuries causing acute pain, persistent swelling, and instability, significantly affecting your ability to walk, run, or participate in sports.
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Common shoulder problems such as rotator cuff issues (tendinopathy, small tears), impingement syndrome, or adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) significantly affecting arm function and daily comfort.
• 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.

Back Neck Pain

• 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: 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.

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. Bettina von Kampen 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.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Application of precise, passive movements to joints to decrease stiffness, relieve pain, and facilitate easier, more comfortable movement.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): A form of manual therapy that actively involves you in your treatment, utilizing your body's muscular effort to achieve specific therapeutic effects on restricted joints and shortened soft tissues.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Targeted manual methods performed by your Physiotherapist to release tight or overactive muscles, address fascial restrictions, and alleviate pain arising from soft tissue dysfunction.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Progressive resistance training programs designed by your Physiotherapist to improve muscle performance, support joint health, and enhance functional capacity for daily life or sport.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Customized exercise plans designed to help you recover from injury, manage chronic conditions, improve physical performance, and achieve your functional goals safely and effectively.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Bettina von Kampen, 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 St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Bettina von Kampen frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• At Bettina von Kampen's physiotherapy practice, individuals with that nagging tennis elbow (or golfer's elbow) that flares up with activity are guided towards building the necessary muscle support for their joints, reducing the risk of re-injury. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as performing self-care tasks like hair washing or reaching their back.
• The journey to a smooth and confident transition back to their work duties when faced with persistent frequent headaches that seem to start from tension in my neck or shoulders is made smoother and more effective with Bettina von Kampen's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like enjoying long, challenging hikes on weekends again.
• Bettina von Kampen believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If aches and pains that I'm pretty sure are from my bad posture at my desk is hindering your ability to simply enjoying leisurely daily walks around their neighborhood for fresh air, a personalized plan focusing on feeling more resilient and less vulnerable to minor strains or injuries can make all the difference.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from recovering from surgery to my hand or wrist and achieved enhanced ability to participate in social and community events under the skilled care of Bettina von Kampen. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema or a play with a new lease on life.

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

Bettina von Kampen practices at St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, situated in the Corktown, Stinson neighborhood of Hamilton. The clinic is conveniently located near Mohawk College (Fennell Campus) and is accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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.

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 reimbursement 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 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.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your first physiotherapy appointment, which includes a detailed assessment and the development of your initial treatment plan, usually takes about 60 minutes. Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled for 30 to 45 minutes. The exact duration of each session will depend on the nature of your treatment and what your Physiotherapist has planned for that specific visit to best help you progress.

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 Ontarians. 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. It is strongly recommended that you check your private/extended health insurance plan for coverage, as many plans offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics. You should also verify your specific eligibility for any public coverage directly with the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

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

It's not uncommon to experience some temporary soreness or a mild increase in symptoms after certain physiotherapy treatments, especially in the initial stages or if you're starting new exercises. This usually subsides within 24-48 hours. However, if you experience a significant or sharp increase in pain, new or worsening neurological symptoms (like numbness, tingling, or weakness), or if your soreness lasts longer than expected, it's important to contact St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton
50 Charlton Ave. E.
Hamilton, ON, L8N 4A6

Phone: (905) 522-1155

Bettina Christiane von Kampen 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: XXX85

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=6f43a4d6-8b02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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