About
Brian Oderkirk is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at LifeMark Physiotherapy Carlingwood Mall in Ottawa, ON, Brian Oderkirk is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Brian Oderkirk's approach 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. Brian Oderkirk serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.
Brian Oderkirk completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 2013). With extensive clinical experience, Brian Oderkirk is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Brian Oderkirk has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.
Brian Oderkirk employs a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Brian Oderkirk promotes preventative care and long-term wellness for the Ottawa community through proactive physiotherapy and utilizes a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Brian Oderkirk offers consultations in English.
Brian McDade Oderkirk provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:
Back Neck Pain
- Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Pain, pins and needles, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg resulting from irritation or compression of a spinal nerve, often managed effectively with physiotherapy techniques like McKenzie method or neural mobilization.
- Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Neck, shoulder, and upper back discomfort, often accompanied by headaches or 'brain fog', after a sudden jerking motion of the head, such as in a rear-end collision.
Post Surgical
- Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): A carefully managed and individualized physiotherapy program to help you regain confidence in your spine, improve functional capacity, and prevent future issues after spinal surgery.
- Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): A progressive exercise program, often combined with manual therapy, designed to gradually restore your shoulder's range of motion, strength, and coordination following your operation.
- Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): Guidance on hip precautions (if applicable for your surgical approach), a progressive exercise program, and functional retraining after hip surgery to help you achieve your goals.
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. Brian Oderkirk can assess your needs.
- Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Application of skilled soft tissue techniques to manage pain, stiffness, and improve function in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia.
- Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A thorough evaluation by your Physiotherapist to accurately diagnose movement dysfunctions, injuries, and the underlying sources of your pain.
- Postural Assessment and Correction: Helping you understand how your posture impacts your musculoskeletal health and providing you with tools for lasting postural improvement and pain relief.
- 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.
- 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.
- Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Identifying inefficient or compensatory movement patterns that could be contributing to your pain or hindering your physical performance.
Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Brian Oderkirk, 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 LifeMark Physiotherapy Carlingwood Mall, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Brian Oderkirk frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- Many find that breathing difficulties and shortness of breath with COPD or asthma, especially during activity significantly impacts their ability to pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty. Brian Oderkirk helps patients target restoring normal movement patterns essential for everyday tasks with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
- For those whose that persistent ache in my lower back that just won't quit has made peacefully paddling their kayak or canoe on the lake for hours seem like a distant memory, Brian Oderkirk's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward successfully avoiding or delaying the need for more invasive treatments or surgery. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to peacefully paddling their kayak or canoe on the lake for hours with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
- The journey to reduced swelling and inflammation in injured areas when faced with persistent trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury is made smoother and more effective with Brian Oderkirk's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like playing in their competitive volleyball league again.
- Many individuals seek help from Brian Oderkirk, their physiotherapist, when a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns) starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve improved circulation and tissue healing, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like feeling energetic enough to engage in social activities in the evenings.
Your personalized physiotherapy plan, developed with Brian Oderkirk, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.
Brian Oderkirk practices at LifeMark Physiotherapy Carlingwood Mall, situated in the Highland Park, Carlingwood West neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near Lansdowne Park (TD Place Stadium/Arena) and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.
- 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.
- Will I be given exercises to do at home?
- Yes, in almost all cases, you will receive a customized home exercise program. These exercises are carefully chosen by your Physiotherapist to specifically target your issues and help you achieve your functional goals faster and more effectively. Performing them as recommended is very important for your progress and for maintaining the improvements you make during your clinic visits.
- Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?
- The number of physiotherapy sessions required varies greatly from person to person. It depends on several factors, including the nature and severity of your condition, how long you've had the issue (acute vs. chronic), your individual treatment goals, your body's unique response to therapy, and how consistently you are able to follow your prescribed home exercise program and self-management advice. Your Physiotherapist will discuss a proposed treatment frequency and estimated duration after your initial assessment and will continually re-evaluate your progress with you.
- What are LifeMark Physiotherapy Carlingwood Mall's operating hours?
- LifeMark Physiotherapy Carlingwood Mall 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/online booking portal for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.
- 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.
- How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?
- Initial assessment appointments are generally longer to allow for a thorough evaluation and discussion, typically lasting between 45 to 60 minutes. Subsequent follow-up treatment sessions are usually shorter, often ranging from 30 to 45 minutes. However, the duration can vary depending on your specific needs, the complexity of your condition, the type of treatment being provided, and the treatment plan designed by your Physiotherapist.
- 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 insurance policy before your first appointment.
- 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.
LifeMark Physiotherapy Carlingwood Mall
12-2121 Carling Ave, Entrance 6
Ottawa, ON, K2A 1H2
Phone: (866) 975-6608
Brian McDade Oderkirk 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: XXX69
Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=180906bc-9102-e811-8136-480fcfeae051
Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.