Carolyn Nicole Bignell – Physiotherapist | London, ON

Carolyn Nicole Bignell is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Pediatric Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at London Health Sciences Centre-Victoria Campus in London, ON, Carolyn Bignell is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Carolyn Bignell's role involves providing specialized physiotherapy services for infants, children, and adolescents to address developmental delays, congenital conditions (like torticollis), orthopedic injuries, neurological conditions, and promote optimal motor function and participation. Carolyn Bignell 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. Carolyn Bignell serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Carolyn Nicole Bignell completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Queen's University (Graduating Class of 1997). With extensive clinical experience, Carolyn Bignell is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Carolyn Bignell has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Pediatric Physiotherapy and Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy.

Carolyn Bignell's practice philosophy centers on a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the London community through proactive physiotherapy. Carolyn Bignell offers consultations in English.

Carolyn Nicole Bignell provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Common Musculoskeletal

• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Knee problems that limit your ability to stay active, perform daily tasks, or enjoy your hobbies, for which physiotherapy offers effective solutions.
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Discomfort felt around the shoulder blade, at the top of the shoulder, or radiating down the arm, making simple tasks challenging.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Acute or chronic pain originating from various musculoskeletal sources, such as a pulled muscle (strain), inflamed tendon, or irritated bursa.

Pediatric

• Pediatric Sports Injuries & Growing Pains (e.g., Osgood-Schlatter, Sever's Disease): Musculoskeletal injuries common in young, growing athletes due to overuse, rapid growth spurts, or acute trauma. Examples include Osgood-Schlatter disease (painful lump below the kneecap), Sever's disease (heel pain), Little League elbow/shoulder, and various sprains or strains.
• Toe Walking (Idiopathic / Habitual): Physiotherapy interventions for habitual toe walking, which may include stretching tight calf muscles, strengthening other leg muscles, gait retraining exercises, sensory input strategies, and advice on footwear to encourage a heel-toe walking pattern.

Post Surgical

• 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-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): A progressive rehabilitation program after surgery to fix a broken bone, helping you regain full use of your arm or leg and return to your normal activities.
• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: A structured, progressive, and goal-oriented physiotherapy rehabilitation program crucial for restoring knee stability, strength, range of motion, and proprioception (joint position sense) after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or other knee ligament (e.g., PCL, MCL, LCL) reconstructive surgery.
• Post-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): Specialized physiotherapy after knee joint replacement surgery to help you regain independence, optimize your surgical outcome, and return to desired daily activities and hobbies.

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. Carolyn Bignell can assess your needs.

• 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.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: An in-depth examination to fully understand your specific condition, allowing your Physiotherapist to create an effective and personalized rehabilitation plan.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Providing clear guidance on self-care techniques, activity modifications, and beneficial lifestyle adjustments for long-term well-being and injury prevention.
• Post-COVID-19 Condition / Long COVID Rehabilitation: A structured physiotherapy approach to address the diverse and often fluctuating symptoms of Long COVID, aiming to improve exercise tolerance gradually, manage fatigue, and support a return to meaningful activities.
• 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.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Application of skilled soft tissue techniques to manage pain, stiffness, and improve function in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Carolyn Bignell, 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 London Health Sciences Centre-Victoria Campus, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Carolyn Bignell frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• When needing help to get moving again after a long period of illness or inactivity is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing getting on and off the floor with ease, physiotherapy with Carolyn Bignell can help you work towards greater ease in performing overhead activities or reaching. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• The journey to improved performance in work-related physical demands when faced with persistent an old ankle sprain that never seems to fully heal and still feels weak is made smoother and more effective with Carolyn Bignell's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like being able to carry their baby or toddler without straining their back or arms.
• Rediscover your ability to tackling home renovation and DIY projects with confidence without the constant burden of my baby/child having trouble with their motor skills, like delayed rolling, sitting or walking. Carolyn Bignell focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to resuming gardening, hobbies, or household tasks without strain or discomfort, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Carolyn Bignell can help you move beyond recovering from a painful and limiting work-related injury (WCB/CNESST/WorkSafe claim). The focus is on increased endurance for walking, allowing for longer and more enjoyable outings, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as playing a few sets of tennis without shoulder pain.

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

Carolyn Bignell practices at London Health Sciences Centre-Victoria Campus, situated in the Woodfield, Wortley Village neighborhood of London. The clinic is conveniently located near the Westmount Area and is accessible via the London Transit Commission (LTC). Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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 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 plan, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

How can I book an appointment at London Health Sciences Centre-Victoria Campus?

You can book an appointment by calling the clinic directly at (519) 685-8500 during business hours. The friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable appointment time with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Definitely. A key aspect of physiotherapy is not just treating current problems but also preventing future ones. A Physiotherapist can assess your movement, identify potential weaknesses or imbalances that could lead to injury, and provide you with a personalized program of exercises and strategies. This proactive approach is beneficial for athletes, individuals with physically demanding jobs, or anyone looking to maintain long-term musculoskeletal health and avoid recurring pain.

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.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

The primary goal of physiotherapy is generally to reduce pain and improve function, not to cause significant or lasting pain. Some assessment techniques or specific treatments might cause mild, temporary discomfort or soreness. Your Physiotherapist will work within your tolerance levels and encourage open feedback. Inform your therapist immediately if you experience notable pain.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at London Health Sciences Centre-Victoria Campus treat?

Physiotherapists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes issues like back and neck pain, joint problems, sports injuries, and nerve pain. Therapists have specialized skills in areas like Pediatric Physiotherapy and general physiotherapy. Treatments often involve Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified), Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment, and patient education.

I have private health insurance. How does that work with physiotherapy payments?

Many private health insurance plans offer coverage for physiotherapy. Contact your insurer before your appointment to understand your plan's specifics (annual maximum, per-visit limits, co-payments, referral requirements, and direct billing options). If direct billing is possible, we can bill your insurer; otherwise, we will provide a receipt for you to submit.

London Health Sciences Centre-Victoria Campus
800 Commissioners Road
London, ON, N6C 2R6

Phone: (519) 685-8500

Carolyn Nicole Bignell 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=e4e8c6fa-8b02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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