Christina Teresa Murphy – Physiotherapist | Hamilton, ON

Christina Teresa Murphy is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton in Hamilton, ON, Tina is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Tina focuses on managing acute and chronic conditions affecting the heart and lungs, such as COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, post-operative cardiac or respiratory recovery, and post-COVID symptoms. Tina's approach involves breathing exercises, airway clearance, exercise prescription, and education, serving adults.

Christina Teresa Murphy completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 2008). With clinical experience, Christina Teresa Murphy is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Christina Teresa Murphy has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy.

Tina employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting; a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Christina Teresa Murphy offers consultations in English.

Christina Teresa Murphy provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Long Covid

• Post-COVID-19 Condition / Long COVID Symptom Management: A structured and individualized physiotherapy approach to address the diverse and often fluctuating symptoms of Post-COVID-19 Syndrome, aiming to improve exercise tolerance gradually, manage fatigue effectively, and support a return to meaningful activities and work.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Muscle Strains and Tears: Damage or tearing of muscle fibers, ranging from a mild overstretch (Grade 1 strain) to a partial or complete rupture (Grade 2 or 3 tear), typically caused by sudden forceful contraction, excessive stretch, or direct trauma.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Aching, soreness, or sharp pain experienced in the neck, which may include muscle spasms, trigger points, or reduced flexibility.

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. Tina can assess your needs.

• 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.
• 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.
• Post-COVID-19 Condition / Long COVID Rehabilitation: Tailored rehabilitation programs focusing on symptom-guided graded exercise therapy (starting very gently), pacing strategies to manage energy levels (avoiding post-exertional malaise), breathing exercises, functional retraining for daily activities, and education to help individuals recover from the long-term effects of COVID-19.
• Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy (e.g., COPD, Asthma, Post-Pneumonia, Post-Cardiac Event Support): Rehabilitation support following cardiac events (e.g., heart attack, bypass surgery - often as part of a cardiac rehab team) or for chronic respiratory conditions like COPD (emphysema, chronic bronchitis), asthma, or bronchiectasis.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Skilled hands-on techniques, including gentle joint mobilizations (smooth, rhythmic movements) and, where appropriate and authorized, joint manipulations (quick, precise thrusts) to restore optimal movement, reduce pain, and improve joint function.
• Pulmonary Rehabilitation Programs: Improving your breathing efficiency, increasing your exercise tolerance, reducing feelings of breathlessness, and enhancing your overall well-being and ability to perform daily activities when living with a chronic respiratory disease.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Tina, 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. Tina frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• With Tina's help, managing needing help to get moving again after a long period of illness or inactivity to achieve developing better body awareness and understanding of healthy movement patterns becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like participating in water aerobics or other pool-based exercises.
• Physiotherapy with Tina can be a transformative turning point for those affected by persistent dizziness that isn't a spinning vertigo but makes me feel unsteady. The shared goal is achieving getting their strength back after surgery or a period of inactivity, paving the way for you to enjoy competing effectively in their curling league games and a more active, vibrant life.
• Tired of trouble with a constantly stiff and sore neck, making turning my head a pain interfering with keeping up with their team during our weekly soccer match? Tina uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve getting back to hiking, running, or cycling pain-free and with renewed vigor and regain your freedom of movement.
• Patients struggling with breathing difficulties and shortness of breath with COPD or asthma, especially during activity can find dedicated and compassionate support from Tina. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving resuming gardening, hobbies, or household tasks without strain or discomfort, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as being able to perform deep cleaning tasks around the house.

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

Tina practices at St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, situated in the Corktown, Stinson neighborhood of Hamilton. The clinic is conveniently located near Hamilton City Hall and is accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR). 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.

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

Comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement is best for your physiotherapy appointment – think about what you might wear to a gym or for light exercise. If you're being treated for a lower-body issue (like hip or knee pain), shorts are very helpful. For upper-body issues (like shoulder or neck pain), a tank top or loose t-shirt is suitable so the Physiotherapist can properly examine and treat the area.

What are St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton's operating hours?

St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Hours may vary by practitioner and day, so please call the clinic or check their website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

This is very individual and depends on many factors. After your comprehensive initial assessment, your Physiotherapist will be able to give you a better idea of the anticipated number of sessions and the frequency of visits needed to achieve your specific goals. We believe in open communication and will regularly review your progress with you, adjusting the treatment plan as you improve and as needed.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Essentially, physiotherapy helps you get moving and stay moving effectively and comfortably. Whether you're dealing with an acute injury, chronic pain, post-surgical recovery, or a condition affecting your physical abilities, your Physiotherapist will work with you. They'll use their expertise in body mechanics, rehabilitation, and pain management to create a personalized treatment plan involving exercises, hands-on techniques, and practical advice to help you achieve your functional goals and live a more active, fulfilling life.

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.

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.

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

Phone: (905) 522-1155

Christina Teresa Murphy 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: XXX08

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=6809707c-1032-e811-8142-480fcff44541

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