Caroline Louise Thomson – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Caroline Louise Thomson is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Geriatric Physiotherapy Focus / Seniors' Health). Practicing at VHA Home Health Care in Toronto, ON, Caroline Thomson is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Caroline Thomson focuses on the unique health needs of older adults, aiming to improve and maintain mobility, strength, balance, manage age-related conditions like arthritis or osteoporosis, reduce fall risk, and enhance overall quality of life and independence. Caroline Thomson serves adults.

Caroline Louise Thomson completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Hertfordshire (Graduating Class of 1996). With clinical experience, Caroline Thomson is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Caroline Thomson has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Geriatric Physiotherapy / Seniors' Health.

Caroline Thomson employs a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals; a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting; promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Toronto community through proactive physiotherapy. Caroline Thomson offers consultations in English.

Caroline Louise Thomson 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): Persistent tendon pain that can interfere with your sports, work, or daily activities, often requiring specific loading programs and advice from a physiotherapist for effective management.

Geriatric

• Age-Related Deconditioning / Frailty / Sarcopenia Management: Helping seniors stay strong, mobile, active, and independent for longer through tailored exercise and functional rehabilitation programs.
• Mobility Issues & Gait Disturbances in Seniors: Physiotherapy aimed at improving safe and efficient movement, gait quality (e.g., step length, speed, pattern), balance, and confidence in mobility for seniors. May include assessment and prescription of appropriate mobility aids (e.g., cane, walker).

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. Caroline Thomson can assess your needs.

• Chronic & Persistent Pain Management Programs: Multifaceted and individualized physiotherapy approaches including pain science education (understanding your pain), graded exercise therapy, pacing strategies, coping mechanisms, manual therapy (where appropriate), and relaxation techniques to help you manage persistent pain and improve your quality of life.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Guided stretching routines and flexibility exercises prescribed by your Physiotherapist, aimed at improving your range of motion, reducing muscle tightness or stiffness, and enhancing overall movement quality.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Development of a tailored therapeutic exercise program by your Physiotherapist, focused on your specific rehabilitation needs, strength goals, flexibility improvements, balance, and overall conditioning.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Graded exercise programs designed to improve your overall physical fitness, endurance, strength, and functional capacity, especially beneficial after illness, surgery, or periods of prolonged inactivity.
• Fibromyalgia & Widespread Pain Management: Tailored physiotherapy including gentle exercise prescription (e.g., aquatic therapy, graded aerobic exercise), pain management education, activity pacing strategies, stress reduction techniques, and gentle manual therapies for individuals living with fibromyalgia or other widespread pain conditions.
• 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.

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

• If my infant having a tilted head or a flat spot on their head (torticollis/plagiocephaly) is preventing you from fully enjoying going on enjoyable fishing or camping trips again, Caroline Thomson offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining reduced muscle tension and a feeling of greater physical ease, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• The path to recovery from recurrent dislocations or a feeling of instability in my shoulder or knee and achieving restoring normal movement patterns essential for everyday tasks for getting back to their regular, consistent gym workouts often starts with expert guidance. Caroline Thomson, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.
• When that persistent ache in my lower back that just won't quit is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing swimming laps at the pool for fitness and relaxation, physiotherapy with Caroline Thomson can help you work towards enhanced ability to participate in social and community events. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• Don't let recovering my strength and energy after being very sick (like with pneumonia or Long COVID) dictate what you can and cannot do. Caroline Thomson offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at feeling more stable and confident on their feet, especially on uneven surfaces, helping you reclaim participating in light recreational activities like bowling or mini-golf and enjoy a more functional life.

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

Caroline Thomson practices at VHA Home Health Care, situated in the Lawrence Manor, Lawrence Heights neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Little Italy and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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.

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.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

You can expect your initial physiotherapy visit to be around an hour long. This extended time allows for a comprehensive assessment of your condition and a collaborative discussion about your treatment goals. Subsequent follow-up sessions are generally between 30 and 45 minutes, though this can be adjusted based on your individual requirements. Your Physiotherapist will advise on the appropriate appointment length for your specific care.

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.

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 insurance plans may require a referral for coverage, so it's best to check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

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

OHIP generally does not cover physiotherapy services in private clinics. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available in specific situations (e.g., post-hospitalization, for certain demographics) but eligibility is strict. Most people will need to use private insurance or pay out-of-pocket for physiotherapy in a private clinic. Check your private insurance coverage and confirm your eligibility with OHIP directly.

Does VHA Home Health Care offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Please contact VHA Home Health Care directly to inquire about their direct billing policies with private insurance companies. Bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment to confirm coverage.

VHA Home Health Care
310-700 Lawrence Ave. West
Toronto, ON, M6A 3B4

Phone: (416) 489-2500

Caroline Louise Thomson 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=68e5ebd3-9102-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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