Christine Ann Tawil

Christine Ann Tawil provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Peripheral Nerve

• Nerve Entrapments / Compressions (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Sciatica, Meralgia Paresthetica): Physiotherapy for common nerve compression syndromes, including Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (wrist), Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (neck/shoulder), Sciatica (low back/buttock), or Meralgia Paresthetica (outer thigh). Treatment often includes manual therapy, nerve gliding exercises (neural mobilization), postural correction, ergonomic advice, and activity modification.
• Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic, Chemotherapy-Induced, Idiopathic): Physiotherapy focuses on improving balance, strength, sensation (where possible), reducing fall risk, managing pain, and providing education on foot care (especially for diabetic neuropathy) and adaptive strategies.

Common Musculoskeletal

• 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.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: A 'rolled' or twisted ankle with subsequent swelling, tenderness, and difficulty putting your full weight on the foot.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Neck problems that interfere with your sleep quality, ability to work comfortably (especially at a desk), or perform everyday tasks without pain.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Damage to the body's movement system, including issues like joint inflammation, ligament tears, or muscle overstretching, often requiring physiotherapy for optimal recovery.

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. Chris can assess your needs.

• Home-Based Physiotherapy Visits (Mobile Physio): In-home rehabilitation programs tailored to your living space and functional needs, helping you regain independence with daily activities, manage pain, and improve mobility where you live.
• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Management & Rehabilitation: Baseline concussion testing (if offered by the clinic/practitioner) and evidence-based post-injury management to ensure a safe and effective recovery from mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI).
• Tele-Rehabilitation / Virtual Physiotherapy Consultations: Providing physiotherapy assessment, diagnosis, treatment guidance, education, exercise prescription, and self-management strategies remotely via secure video conferencing technology.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Hands-on treatment focusing on your body's soft tissues to restore pliability, reduce discomfort, and optimize movement quality.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Hands-on physiotherapy focused on mobilizing restricted joints and soft tissues to promote healing, restore normal biomechanics, and alleviate pain.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Chris, 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 Niagara Peninsula Children's Centre, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Chris frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Discover how physiotherapy with Chris can help you move beyond facial weakness or drooping on one side (like Bell's Palsy). The focus is on feeling a substantial improvement in their mobility and range of motion for easier movement, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema or a play.
• At Chris's physiotherapy practice, individuals with pain in my shins when I try to run or be active (shin splints) are guided towards improved coordination for complex movements and fine motor tasks. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as standing for longer periods, for example, while cooking or at an event.
• When that 'pins and needles' feeling that won't go away is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing managing the physical demands of their job without constant pain, physiotherapy with Chris can help you work towards seeing their child achieve developmental milestones with greater ease (for pediatric physio). The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• Living with that 'arthritic' pain in my hands, hips, or knees doesn't have to be your norm. Chris applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards achieving their specific mobility goals, whether big or small, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of walking up and down several flights of stairs without issue or breathlessness.

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

Chris practices at the Niagara Peninsula Children's Centre, located in the Merritton, Thorold South (Brock University Area) neighborhood of St. Catharines. The clinic enjoys a convenient location near Montebello Park and is easily accessible via Niagara Region Transit (NRT). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

While some physiotherapy techniques might feel uncomfortable or cause a temporary increase in soreness (similar to muscle soreness after a new workout), especially when working on stiff joints or tight muscles, it should not be excessively or intolerably painful. Your Physiotherapist will discuss what sensations you might expect with different treatments and will always aim to adjust the intensity and techniques to ensure you are as comfortable as possible while still achieving therapeutic benefits. Constant communication about your comfort level is very important.

Does Niagara Peninsula Children's Centre offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

While Niagara Peninsula Children's Centre does not offer direct billing, we provide detailed official receipts that you can submit to your insurance provider for reimbursement. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. Remember to confirm your specific coverage details, including any annual maximums, per-visit limits, or deductible requirements, directly with your insurance provider, as plans vary significantly. You are responsible for any portion not covered by your insurance.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy, delivered by a qualified Physiotherapist, is a science-based profession that focuses on restoring movement and function when someone is affected by injury, illness, or disability. It can also help to reduce your risk of future problems. Your physiotherapist will use techniques such as therapeutic exercise, manual therapy (hands-on treatment), education, and advice, empowering you to manage your health independently and achieve your physical goals.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes, absolutely! Physiotherapy plays a significant role in injury prevention and managing recurring pain. Your Physiotherapist can identify underlying risk factors such as muscle imbalances, poor movement patterns, postural issues, or biomechanical inefficiencies. By addressing these through targeted exercises, education on proper body mechanics, ergonomic advice, and activity modification, physiotherapy can help reduce your risk of initial injury, prevent re-injury, and manage chronic conditions more effectively, keeping you active and healthy.

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. It is strongly recommended to check your private insurance for coverage of services in private clinics.

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 (direct access). However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?

For your first visit, please bring your provincial health card (e.g., Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) card, if applicable), any relevant medical information such as a doctor's referral note (if you have one), reports from recent imaging (like X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound scans), and a list of your current medications. Also, if you plan to use private health insurance, bring your insurance card or policy details. Finally, wear or bring comfortable clothing suitable for assessment and movement.

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.

Niagara Peninsula Children's Centre
567 Glenridge Ave
St. Catharines, ON, L2T 4C2

Phone: (905) 688-3550

Christine Ann Tawil 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: XXX99

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=b8286e08-8b02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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