Cynthia Jean Danells – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Cynthia Jean Danells is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Centre in Toronto, ON, Cynthia is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Cynthia's focus is assisting individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life after neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. Cynthia serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Cynthia Jean Danells completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Dalhousie University (Graduating Class of 1992). With extensive clinical experience, Cynthia is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Cynthia has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Neurological Physiotherapy.

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

Cynthia Jean Danells provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Joint Pain

• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Pain, tenderness, swelling, and dysfunction in a tendon (the strong cords that attach muscles to bones) due to overuse, repetitive strain, injury, or degeneration. Common sites include the Achilles, patellar tendon (knee), rotator cuff (shoulder), or elbow (tennis/golfer's elbow).
• 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.

Neurological

• Facial Palsy / Bell's Palsy Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy for weakness or paralysis of facial muscles, often affecting one side of the face (e.g., Bell's Palsy, Ramsay Hunt syndrome, post-surgical facial nerve injury).
• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Rehabilitation (Incomplete/Specific Cases): Specialized neurorehabilitation programs designed by a Physiotherapist to improve physical function, optimize movement potential, and enhance quality of life for individuals living with an SCI.

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. Cynthia can assess your needs.

• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A complete assessment of your musculoskeletal system to pinpoint issues, set clear rehabilitation goals, and get you started on the path to recovery.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Using controlled isometric and isotonic muscle contractions, as directed by your Physiotherapist, to address joint restrictions and muscle imbalances effectively.
• Neurological Rehabilitation (e.g., Stroke, MS, Parkinson's, Acquired Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury): Evidence-based neurological rehabilitation focused on harnessing neuroplasticity, motor learning principles, and task-specific training to help regain lost skills and adapt to new ways of moving.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Improving the mobility and health of your nervous system to reduce pain, restore sensation, and enhance overall function.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Hands-on treatment focusing on your body's soft tissues to restore pliability, reduce discomfort, and optimize movement quality.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Evaluation of your body's basic movements (like squatting, lunging, reaching) to highlight areas for improvement in stability, mobility, and motor control.

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

• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of that 'pins and needles' feeling that won't go away? Cynthia works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of a better ability to cope with the physical stresses of daily life. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as being able to carry their baby or toddler without straining their back or arms.
• At Cynthia's physiotherapy practice, individuals with dealing with ongoing pain and stiffness after a car accident, like whiplash are guided towards better joint stability during movement and weight-bearing activities. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as enjoying long, challenging hikes on weekends again.
• Cynthia frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets seeing their child achieve developmental milestones with greater ease (for pediatric physio) and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like handling their job that involves frequent standing, walking, or bending.
• The journey to improved hand and wrist function for tasks requiring dexterity when faced with persistent sharp pain shooting down my leg, feeling a lot like sciatica is made smoother and more effective with Cynthia's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like painting or drawing for longer stretches without neck or shoulder ache.

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

Cynthia practices at the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Centre, located in the Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near the Metro Toronto Convention Centre and is easily accessible via the TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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 Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University 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 parking available at or near Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Centre?

Paid parking is available in the parkade adjacent to our building. Limited free street parking may also be found in the vicinity, but please check local signage for restrictions.

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 Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University 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.

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. We strongly advise checking your private insurance for private clinic coverage.

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.

Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Centre
550 University Ave.
Toronto, ON, M5G 2A2

Phone: (416) 597-3422

Cynthia Jean Danells 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: XXX26

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=a947832c-8b02-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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