Deidre Joan Pretlove – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Deidre Joan Pretlove is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Personal Best Physiotherapy, Pilates, Rehabilitation in Toronto, ON, Deidre is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Deidre'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. Deidre serves adults.

Deidre Joan Pretlove completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Toronto (Graduating Class of 1987). With extensive clinical experience, Deidre is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Deidre has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

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

Deidre Joan Pretlove provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Hand Wrist

• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Physiotherapy to help you regain optimal use of your hand and wrist after an injury, surgery, or due to a chronic condition, enabling you to return to work, hobbies, and daily tasks.
• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Addressing the inflammation, pain, and restricted movement associated with stenosing tenosynovitis of the finger or thumb.

Back Neck Pain

• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Muscular pain, trigger points, and tension headaches resulting from habitual poor posture, which can be addressed with postural re-education, exercises, and ergonomic advice.
• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Symptoms resulting from a whiplash injury, which can vary in severity (WAD Grades I-III) and duration, requiring a comprehensive physiotherapy approach for recovery.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Symptoms like 'neurogenic claudication' – leg pain, cramping, or heaviness with walking or prolonged standing that typically eases with rest or bending forward (flexion).

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. Deidre can assess your needs.

• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Targeted manual methods performed by your Physiotherapist to release tight or overactive muscles, address fascial restrictions, and alleviate pain arising from soft tissue dysfunction.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Graded exercise programs designed to improve your overall physical fitness, endurance, strength, and functional capacity, especially beneficial after illness, surgery, or periods of prolonged inactivity.
• 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.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Evidence-based exercise programs designed by your physiotherapist, including instruction and progression, to optimize your recovery and enhance your physical well-being.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Developing control, strength, and endurance in your core musculature for improved functional performance, pain reduction, and prevention of re-injury.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Gentle, active manual therapy techniques where you use your own specific muscle contractions against your therapist's controlled resistance to improve joint mobility, lengthen tight tissues, and reduce pain.

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

• Patients struggling with recovering from a burn and needing help with scar mobility and movement can find dedicated and compassionate support from Deidre. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving improved coordination for complex movements and fine motor tasks, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as giving presentations or speaking publicly with confidence and good posture.
• It's truly rewarding for Deidre to witness patients conquer an old ankle sprain that never seems to fully heal and still feels weak and experience effectively managing chronic pain and reclaiming an active lifestyle. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in taking group exercise classes at the community center again.
• The path to recovery from clicking, popping, or pain in my jaw (TMJ issues) when I eat or talk and achieving enhanced pelvic floor function and control (for relevant conditions) for setting up and taking down equipment for hobbies or sports often starts with expert guidance. Deidre, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.
• Many find that dealing with ongoing pain and stiffness after a car accident, like whiplash significantly impacts their ability to going on enjoyable fishing or camping trips again. Deidre helps patients target increased flexibility throughout their body, particularly in their back and major joints with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.

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

Deidre's practice, Personal Best Physiotherapy, Pilates, Rehabilitation, is conveniently located in the Davisville neighborhood of Toronto, near the Port Lands. The clinic 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 Personal Best Physiotherapy, Pilates, Rehabilitation or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Absolutely! Home exercises are a vital part of your rehabilitation journey and empower you to take an active role in your recovery process. Your Physiotherapist will carefully select and teach you exercises specific to your needs. These exercises help to reinforce what's done in the clinic, manage your condition effectively, and ensure you continue progressing towards your goals even when you're not in a session.

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 there parking available at or near Personal Best Physiotherapy, Pilates, Rehabilitation?

Yes, there is ample free patient parking available directly in front of and beside the building. Look for the designated patient spots.

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Physiotherapist in ON?

In Ontario, you can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a physician's referral (direct access). However, some private/extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement; check your policy before your first appointment.

Is physiotherapy covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

OHIP generally does NOT cover physiotherapy services in private outpatient clinics. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available in specific situations (e.g., post-hospitalization, for certain demographics) but eligibility is strict. Check your private insurance for coverage.

Personal Best Physiotherapy, Pilates, Rehabilitation
124 Merton Street
Toronto, ON, M4S 2Z2

Phone: (416) 322-6070

Deidre Joan Pretlove 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: XXX88

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=0fa13e25-8a02-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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