Christopher O. McKenzie – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Christopher O. McKenzie is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Toronto, ON, Christopher is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Christopher'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. Christopher serves adults.

Christopher O. McKenzie completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Queen's University (Graduating Class of 1996). With extensive clinical experience, Christopher is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Christopher has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Christopher's practice philosophy centers on empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Christopher maintains a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care possible. Christopher promotes preventative care and long-term wellness for the Toronto community through proactive physiotherapy. Christopher offers consultations in English.

Christopher O. McKenzie 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.

Back Neck Pain

• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Symptoms of nerve compression originating from the spine, such as a 'slipped disc' or 'pinched nerve', causing radiating pain, altered sensation, or muscle weakness in a limb.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Symptoms like 'neurogenic claudication' – leg pain, cramping, or heaviness with walking or prolonged standing that typically eases with rest or bending forward (flexion).

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. Christopher can assess your needs.

• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Ultrasound therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, often used to prepare tissues for manual therapy or exercise, or to manage acute and chronic soft tissue injuries.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Using therapeutic cold to manage the initial stages of an injury (e.g., sprains, strains) and control inflammatory responses, helping to limit tissue damage.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Employing different types of electrotherapy to support your rehabilitation goals, including promoting tissue healing or improving motor control.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: A comforting physiotherapy modality that helps to soothe tight muscles, decrease pain perception, and improve the flexibility of soft tissues.
• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: A specialized physiotherapy treatment that uses a traction table or manual techniques to gently decompress spinal structures, relieve pressure, and promote healing.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: The application of specific wavelengths of light energy (cold laser) by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and accelerate tissue repair and regeneration at a cellular level.

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

• Are you finding that that burning pain between my shoulder blades from too much computer work stops you from enjoying playing a full game of recreational hockey with their friends? Christopher is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve a noticeable reduction in daily discomfort, making everyday tasks easier and more enjoyable through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.
• Don't let numbness, tingling, or weakness in my hands, arms, feet, or legs dictate what you can and cannot do. Christopher offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at a smoother and stronger postpartum recovery, helping you reclaim joining in on pickup basketball games at the local court and enjoy a more functional life.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from loss of strength in one of my limbs after an injury and achieved greater confidence when walking, standing, or navigating challenging environments under the skilled care of Christopher. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as actively participating in family outings and vacations without holding others back with a new lease on life.
• Patients often come to Christopher feeling defeated by frequent headaches that seem to start from tension in my neck or shoulders. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving improved performance in work-related physical demands and resuming setting up and taking down equipment for hobbies or sports becomes a realistic and attainable goal.

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

Christopher practices at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, located in the Lawrence Park neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Harbourfront Centre and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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/extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement of physiotherapy services. It is strongly recommended that you check with your insurance provider to understand their specific requirements before your first appointment.

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 is Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre's appointment cancellation policy?

We understand that schedules can change unexpectedly. To ensure we can accommodate all our patients efficiently, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer the time slot to other patients who may be waiting for care. A fee may be charged for late cancellations (less than 24 hours' notice) or missed appointments without sufficient notice. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your appointment.

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

OHIP generally does NOT cover physiotherapy services in private outpatient clinics. 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. Check your private insurance coverage as many plans offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

What are Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre's operating hours?

Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Hours can vary by practitioner and day, so please call the clinic or check their website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

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.

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

Many private health insurance plans offer full or partial coverage for registered physiotherapy services. Contact your insurance provider before your first appointment to understand your plan's specifics. Key things to check are: your annual maximum for physiotherapy, any per-visit limits or co-payments, whether a doctor's referral is required for reimbursement, and if your plan allows for direct billing by the clinic. If direct billing is possible, we can bill your insurer directly for the covered portion. You would then be responsible for any co-payment or remaining balance. If direct billing is not possible, we will provide you with an official receipt to submit to your insurer.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Definitely. Physiotherapy helps prevent future injuries by assessing movement, identifying potential weaknesses, and providing personalized exercise programs. This proactive approach benefits athletes, individuals with physically demanding jobs, or anyone seeking long-term musculoskeletal health.

Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
2075 Bayview Ave.
Toronto, ON, M4N 3M5

Phone: (416) 480-6100

Christopher O. McKenzie 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: XXX50

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=e7d419ce-8b02-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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