David Allan Zelibka – Physiotherapist | London, ON

David Allan Zelibka is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Elevate Physiotherapy in London, ON, Dave is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Dave'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. Dave serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

David Allan Zelibka completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Alberta (Graduating Class of 2005). With extensive clinical experience, David Allan Zelibka is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Dave has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

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

David Allan Zelibka provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Addressing the inflammation, pain, and restricted movement associated with stenosing tenosynovitis of the finger or thumb.
• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Focused physiotherapy care for complex hand and wrist problems, often involving custom splinting or orthosis fabrication, manual therapy (joint and soft tissue mobilization), specific exercises to restore dexterity, strength, and range of motion, scar management, and sensory re-education.

Arthritis

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Physiotherapy as an important part of a multidisciplinary team approach to managing rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory joint conditions (e.g., ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis), helping to minimize disease impact and maximize 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.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Supportive physiotherapy for individuals with psoriatic arthritis, focusing on managing joint pain and swelling, maintaining range of motion and strength, improving function, and providing advice on activity modification and joint protection.

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. Dave can assess your needs.

• 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.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: The use of specific electrical stimulation devices (IFC or TENS) by your Physiotherapist to provide pain relief, reduce muscle spasm, decrease swelling, or promote muscle activation and re-education.
• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: The application of gentle, controlled mechanical or manual force to distract (stretch) spinal segments, aiming to alleviate pressure on intervertebral discs, nerves, and facet joints.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Cold therapy techniques applied by your therapist to effectively alleviate acute pain, reduce inflammation, and manage muscle soreness or spasm.
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): A non-invasive, evidence-based treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing, reduce pain, and promote tissue regeneration in stubborn soft tissue conditions that haven't responded to other therapies.
• 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.

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

• Discover how physiotherapy with Dave can help you move beyond recurrent dislocations or a feeling of instability in my shoulder or knee. The focus is on decreased frequency and intensity of headaches related to neck or postural issues, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as managing the physical demands of their job without constant pain.
• Are you finding that recovering my strength and energy after being very sick (like with pneumonia or Long COVID) stops you from enjoying reading a good book for hours without experiencing neck pain or headaches? Dave is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve the ability to manage symptoms independently if they occasionally recur through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.
• At Dave's physiotherapy practice, individuals with that persistent ache in my lower back that just won't quit are guided towards restored joint function, leading to smoother and more coordinated movements. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as engaging in volunteer work that might have physical demands.
• For those whose trouble with everyday tasks because of pain or weakness in my hands or grip has made comfortably cooking and meal prepping for their family seem like a distant memory, Dave's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward experiencing significant pain relief, allowing for a more comfortable daily life. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to comfortably cooking and meal prepping for their family with greater comfort and renewed confidence.

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

Dave practices at Elevate Physiotherapy, situated in the Woodfield, Wortley Village neighborhood of London. The clinic is conveniently located near Western University and is accessible via London Transit Commission (LTC). Please inquire regarding specific accessibility needs for our clinic. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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

What is Elevate Physiotherapy'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.

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.

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.

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 Elevate Physiotherapy offers direct billing and your plan allows it, we can 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 treatment supposed to be painful?

The primary goal of physiotherapy is generally to reduce pain and improve function, not to cause significant or lasting pain. Some assessment techniques or specific treatments might cause mild, temporary discomfort or soreness. Your Physiotherapist will always work within your tolerance levels and encourage open feedback. If you experience notable or unacceptable pain during treatment, please inform your therapist immediately.

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

Comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement is best. Shorts are helpful for lower-body issues, and a tank top or loose t-shirt is suitable for upper-body issues.

Elevate Physiotherapy
172 Wortley Rd
London, ON, N6C 3P7

Phone: (519) 719-1782

David Allan Zelibka 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: XXX40

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=95cda526-9102-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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