David Buchnea – Physiotherapist | Barrie, ON

David Buchnea is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Sports Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at Strive Sport & Exercise Medicine in Barrie, ON, David Buchnea is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. David Buchnea specializes in the assessment, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries. Care is tailored to help athletes of all levels, from recreational to elite, return to their sport safely, optimize performance, and prevent future injuries. David Buchnea also manages acute and chronic conditions affecting the heart and lungs, such as COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, post-operative cardiac or respiratory recovery, and post-COVID symptoms. This involves breathing exercises, airway clearance, exercise prescription, and education. David Buchnea serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

David Buchnea completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Oxford Brookes University (Graduating Class of 2014). With extensive clinical experience, David Buchnea is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. David Buchnea has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Sports Physiotherapy and Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy.

David Buchnea's practice philosophy centers around a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals; and empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. David Buchnea offers consultations in English.

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

Sports Injury

• IT Band Syndrome (Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome): An overuse injury resulting from repetitive friction of the IT band over the lateral femoral epicondyle (at the knee) or greater trochanter (at the hip).
• Muscle Strains (e.g., Hamstring, Calf, Groin, Quadriceps, Rotator Cuff): Acute pain, swelling, bruising, localized tenderness, and weakness in a muscle, often occurring during activities like sprinting, jumping, lifting, or throwing.

Joint Pain

• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Conditions like 'jumper's knee' (patellar tendinopathy), 'swimmer's shoulder' (rotator cuff tendinopathy), or 'tennis elbow' (lateral epicondylitis) caused by tendon issues that limit your ability to perform specific tasks.
• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage and underlying bone, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility in affected joints like the knees, hips, spine, or hands.

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. David Buchnea can assess your needs.

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Management & Rehabilitation: Baseline concussion testing (if offered by the clinic/practitioner) and evidence-based post-injury management to ensure a safe and effective recovery from mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI).
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Providing clear guidance on self-care techniques, activity modifications, and beneficial lifestyle adjustments for long-term well-being and injury prevention.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Detailed analysis of your static and dynamic posture, with tailored exercises, stretches, and advice to help you improve alignment and reduce strain on your body.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Identifying inefficient or compensatory movement patterns that could be contributing to your pain or hindering your physical performance.
• Pulmonary Rehabilitation Programs: Comprehensive, often multidisciplinary, programs for individuals with chronic lung conditions (e.g., COPD, bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, interstitial lung disease), with a core physiotherapy component focusing on supervised exercise training (aerobic and strength), breathing techniques, education on managing the condition, and strategies for energy conservation.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: Detailed physical assessment of your joints, muscles, nerves, and movement patterns to identify the root cause of your symptoms and guide your treatment.

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

• Don't let that 'pins and needles' feeling that won't go away dictate what you can and cannot do. David Buchnea offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at learning specific exercises that provide ongoing relief and maintain their progress, helping you reclaim spending hours gardening comfortably, without subsequent back or knee strain and enjoy a more functional life.
• Struggling with the frustration of shoulder pain that makes simple things like lifting my arm or reaching overhead difficult? David Buchnea develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving enhanced ability to participate in social and community events. This is key to helping you get back to doing participating in community events and social gatherings more actively with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• Many find that awful foot pain first thing in the morning, like I'm walking on glass (plantar fasciitis) significantly impacts their ability to tackling home renovation and DIY projects with confidence. David Buchnea helps patients target feeling more positive, capable, and optimistic about their physical health with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• The journey to a better ability to cope with the physical stresses of daily life when faced with persistent recovering from surgery to my hand or wrist is made smoother and more effective with David Buchnea's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like playing a full game of recreational hockey with their friends.

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

David Buchnea's practice at Strive Sport & Exercise Medicine is located in the Letitia Heights, Sunnidale neighborhood of Barrie. The clinic is conveniently located near Barrie Waterfront (Kempenfelt Bay) and is accessible via Barrie Transit. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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.

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 Strive Sport & Exercise Medicine or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

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 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.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy, delivered by a qualified Physiotherapist, is a science-based profession that focuses on restoring movement and function when someone is affected by injury, illness, or disability. It can also help reduce the risk of future problems. Your physiotherapist will use techniques such as therapeutic exercise, manual therapy (hands-on treatment), education, and advice, empowering you to manage your health independently and achieve your physical goals.

What are Strive Sport & Exercise Medicine's operating hours?

Strive Sport & Exercise Medicine 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 office or check their website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your first visit, the Physiotherapist will conduct a detailed evaluation. This usually involves a discussion about your symptoms, medical history, and goals. A physical assessment will help pinpoint the cause of your problem. 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.

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

Many private health insurance plans offer coverage for registered physiotherapy services. Contact your insurer before your first appointment to understand your plan's specifics (annual maximum, per-visit limits, co-payments, referral requirements, and direct billing options). Strive Sport & Exercise Medicine may offer direct billing; otherwise, you'll receive a receipt to submit to your insurer.

Strive Sport & Exercise Medicine
41 Commerce Park Drive, Unit C
Barrie, ON, L4N 8X1

Phone: (705) 792-4278

David Buchnea 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: XXX34

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=18bd9381-9202-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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