Courtney Alyssa Franks – Physiotherapist | Welland, ON

Courtney Alyssa Franks is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Accelerated Health & Wellness Centre in Welland, ON, Courtney Franks is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Courtney Franks's focus is 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. Courtney Franks serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Courtney Alyssa Franks completed their degree in Physiotherapy from D'Youville University (Graduating Class of 2012). With extensive clinical experience, Courtney Franks is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Courtney Franks has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Courtney Franks employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Courtney Franks utilizes a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Courtney Franks empowers patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Courtney Franks offers consultations in English.

Courtney Alyssa Franks provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Arthritis

• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Individualized exercise programs and pain management strategies tailored for psoriatic arthritis to help reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Supportive physiotherapy care for joint recovery and function after gout flares, focusing on restoring range of motion, reducing inflammation, and providing advice on joint protection and lifestyle factors.

Back Neck Pain

• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): A range of neck and related symptoms including pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and sometimes arm pain or cognitive difficulties, following a rapid acceleration-deceleration injury to the neck, most typically from a motor vehicle accident.
• 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.

Post Surgical

• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): Restoring your ability to perform daily tasks, work, and recreational activities by addressing pain, stiffness, and weakness after your shoulder surgery.
• Post-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): The crucial rehabilitation phase following total or partial knee replacement surgery, with physiotherapy focusing on restoring range of motion, building strength, improving balance, managing pain and swelling, and enabling functional mobility (e.g., walking, stairs, getting in/out of a car).

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. Courtney Franks can assess your needs.

• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): The application of focused acoustic waves (Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy) by a trained Physiotherapist to treat chronic tendon issues (e.g., plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, Achilles tendinopathy), calcific tendinosis, and other persistent musculoskeletal conditions.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Application of precise, passive movements to joints to decrease stiffness, relieve pain, and facilitate easier, more comfortable movement.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Application of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) or Interferential Current (IFC) for managing acute or chronic pain conditions by modulating pain signals or promoting the release of endorphins.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Using therapeutic ultrasound as an adjunct treatment to help reduce pain, decrease inflammation, break down scar tissue, and accelerate the repair of injured soft tissues.
• 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.
• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: Utilizing traction techniques to create space within the spine, reduce nerve irritation, improve disc hydration, and alleviate back or neck pain.

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

• Patients struggling with a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns) can find dedicated and compassionate support from Courtney Franks. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving successfully avoiding or delaying the need for more invasive treatments or surgery, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as getting back to cycling for leisure or commuting.
• Physiotherapy with Courtney Franks can be a transformative turning point for those affected by working on getting back to normal after a fracture or other surgery. The shared goal is achieving a noticeable reduction in daily discomfort, making everyday tasks easier and more enjoyable, paving the way for you to enjoy simply being able to get through a workday without constant pain interruptions and a more active, vibrant life.
• The path to recovery from awful foot pain first thing in the morning, like I'm walking on glass (plantar fasciitis) and achieving greater ease with dressing, bathing, and other self-care activities for painting or drawing for longer stretches without neck or shoulder ache often starts with expert guidance. Courtney Franks, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.
• Courtney Franks believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If recovering from surgery to my hand or wrist is hindering your ability to dressing myself independently and without difficulty, including shoes and socks, a personalized plan focusing on improved overall mobility, making it easier to navigate their home and community can make all the difference.

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

Courtney Franks practices at Accelerated Health & Wellness Centre, a reputable physiotherapy clinic in the Welland neighborhood of Welland. The clinic is conveniently located near Seaway Mall and is accessible via Niagara Region Transit (NRT) / Welland Transit routes. 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?

It's not uncommon to experience some temporary soreness or a mild increase in symptoms after certain physiotherapy treatments, especially in the initial stages or if you're starting new exercises. This usually subsides within 24-48 hours. However, if you experience a significant or sharp increase in pain, new or worsening neurological symptoms (like numbness, tingling, or weakness), or if your soreness lasts longer than expected, it's important to contact Accelerated Health & Wellness Centre or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

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 for any publicly funded programs or simply for identification), 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.

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

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. We recommend you contact your insurance provider directly before your first appointment to understand the specifics of your plan. 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 Accelerated Health & Wellness Centre offers direct billing and your plan allows it, we can often bill your insurer directly for the covered portion. You would then be responsible for any co-payment or remaining balance not covered by your plan at the time of service. Please bring your insurance card and all necessary policy details to your first appointment. If direct billing is not possible, we will provide you with an official receipt that you can submit to your insurer.

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.

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

Wear or bring clothing that allows unrestricted movement and easy access for examination. For example, shorts for knee problems or a sleeveless top for shoulder issues.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes, physiotherapy plays a significant role in injury prevention and managing recurring pain by identifying and addressing risk factors such as muscle imbalances and poor movement patterns.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Initial assessments are 45-60 minutes; follow-up sessions are usually 30-45 minutes. Duration varies depending on individual needs.

Accelerated Health & Wellness Centre
130 Highway 20 East, Unit A3
Welland, ON, L0S 1E6

Phone: (289) 897-9099

Courtney Alyssa Franks 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: XXX55

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=240c6b68-9102-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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