Daniel Thomas DeBruyne – Physiotherapist | St. Catharines, ON

Daniel Thomas DeBruyne is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Hotel Dieu Shaver Health and Rehabilitation Centre in St. Catharines, ON, Daniel DeBruyne is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Daniel DeBruyne'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. Daniel DeBruyne serves adults.

Daniel Thomas DeBruyne completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Toronto (Graduating Class of 2015). With clinical experience, Daniel DeBruyne is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Daniel DeBruyne has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Daniel DeBruyne's practice philosophy centers on a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the St. Catharines community through proactive physiotherapy. Daniel DeBruyne offers consultations in English.

Daniel Thomas DeBruyne provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Back Neck Pain

• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Pain, pins and needles, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg resulting from irritation or compression of a spinal nerve, often managed effectively with physiotherapy techniques like McKenzie method or neural mobilization.
• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Neck, shoulder, and upper back discomfort, often accompanied by headaches or 'brain fog', after a sudden jerking motion of the head, such as in a rear-end collision.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Nerve compression symptoms due to a narrowing (stenosis) of the spinal canal or the small openings where nerves exit the spine (foramina), most commonly in the lumbar (lower back) or cervical (neck) regions.

Post Surgical

• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: A structured, progressive, and goal-oriented physiotherapy rehabilitation program crucial for restoring knee stability, strength, range of motion, and proprioception (joint position sense) after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or other knee ligament (e.g., PCL, MCL, LCL) reconstructive surgery.
• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): Targeted physiotherapy to help you recover from operatively treated fractures, addressing common issues like joint stiffness, muscle weakness, swelling, pain, and functional limitations in the affected limb.

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. Daniel DeBruyne can assess your needs.

• Postural Assessment and Correction: Education on optimal body mechanics and corrective strategies to improve your posture during daily activities, work, and recreation.
• 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.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Educating you about your diagnosis, expected recovery timeline (prognosis), and the reasons behind your treatment plan to encourage active participation in your healing.
• 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.
• 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.

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

• Don't let that grinding or crunching feeling in my knee or shoulder dictate what you can and cannot do. Daniel DeBruyne offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at greater ease in performing overhead activities or reaching, helping you reclaim attending and enjoying their children's or grandchildren's sporting events and enjoy a more functional life.
• For those whose that 'arthritic' pain in my hands, hips, or knees has made sleeping soundly through the night without being woken by pain or discomfort seem like a distant memory, Daniel DeBruyne's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward feeling more energetic and less weighed down by physical discomfort. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to sleeping soundly through the night without being woken by pain or discomfort with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• The journey to enhanced ability to participate in social and community events when faced with persistent general muscle strains and pulls from overdoing it at the gym or in the garden is made smoother and more effective with Daniel DeBruyne's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like walking their children to school or the park.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from recovering from surgery to my hand or wrist and achieved enhanced recovery from post-surgical procedures with fewer complications under the skilled care of Daniel DeBruyne. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as playing a full game of recreational hockey with their friends with a new lease on life.

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

Daniel DeBruyne practices at Hotel Dieu Shaver Health and Rehabilitation Centre, situated in the Merritton, Thorold South (Brock University Area) neighborhood of St. Catharines. The clinic is conveniently located near Lakeside Park and is accessible via Niagara Region Transit (NRT). Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

Physiotherapy should not be an ordeal of pain. While you might feel some discomfort or a stretching sensation as you work to regain movement or strength, especially in the initial stages of treatment for an acute injury or chronic stiffness, it's rarely 'painful' in a distressing or harmful way. Your Physiotherapist will guide you through each step, modify treatments to suit your comfort and tolerance, and ensure that the overall experience is positive. The ultimate aim is to make you feel better, not worse.

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.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your first visit, the Physiotherapist will conduct a detailed evaluation to get a full picture of your condition. This usually involves a thorough discussion about your symptoms, how they impact your daily life, any relevant medical history, and your personal goals for therapy. A physical assessment will then be performed to help pinpoint the cause of your problem and assess your physical capabilities. Afterwards, your therapist will explain their findings, collaborate with you to set treatment goals, and outline a proposed plan of care. You'll likely receive some initial advice, exercises, or hands-on treatment to begin your recovery journey.

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 advised to check your private insurance for coverage of services in private clinics.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial and integral component of most physiotherapy treatment plans. Your Physiotherapist will prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals. These exercises are designed to complement your in-clinic treatment, help you manage your symptoms effectively between sessions, accelerate your recovery, and empower you with tools for long-term self-management. Your active participation in your home program is key for optimal results.

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.

Hotel Dieu Shaver Health and Rehabilitation Centre
541 Glenridge Ave.
St. Catharines, ON, L2T 4C2

Phone: (905) 685-1381

Daniel Thomas DeBruyne 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: XXX23

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=7baa5dab-9202-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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