Di Zhang – Physiotherapist | Ottawa, ON

Connie Zhang is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Geriatric Physiotherapy Focus / Seniors' Health). Practicing at Bruyere Health in Ottawa, ON, Connie Zhang is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Connie Zhang focuses on the unique health needs of older adults, aiming to improve and maintain mobility, strength, balance, manage age-related conditions like arthritis or osteoporosis, reduce fall risk, and enhance overall quality of life and independence. Connie Zhang serves seniors with compassion and expertise.

Connie Zhang completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McGill University (Graduating Class of 2013). With clinical experience, Connie Zhang is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Connie Zhang has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Geriatric Physiotherapy / Seniors' Health.

Connie Zhang employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting; empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Connie Zhang offers consultations in Chinese, English, French.

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

Post Surgical

• Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): A structured physiotherapy plan to help you recover full function, independence, and confidence in your new hip after replacement surgery.
• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): Restoring your ability to perform daily tasks, work, and recreational activities by addressing pain, stiffness, and weakness after your shoulder surgery.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Knee problems that limit your ability to stay active, perform daily tasks, or enjoy your hobbies, for which physiotherapy offers effective solutions.
• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Symptoms in your hand or wrist that impact your ability to perform your job, hobbies, or essential self-care tasks, addressed by specialized hand physiotherapy.

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. Connie Zhang can assess your needs.

• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Structured physical activities and exercises aimed at helping you safely regain strength, stamina, and confidence in your body's abilities, tailored to your current level.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Developing control, strength, and endurance in your core musculature for improved functional performance, pain reduction, and prevention of re-injury.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: A carefully selected set of exercises specific to your condition and abilities, aimed at restoring function, reducing pain, improving movement, and preventing future issues.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Specific stretches designed by your therapist to target tight muscle groups relevant to your condition, helping to improve your flexibility and reduce your risk of injury.
• Balance Training & Falls Prevention Programs: Specific training programs to enhance your sense of body position, improve your reaction times to unexpected balance disturbances, and build confidence in your ability to move safely in various environments.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Customized strength training to address specific weaknesses identified in your assessment, helping to correct imbalances, improve movement efficiency, and achieve your physical objectives.

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

• Many patients have found lasting relief from persistent dizziness that isn't a spinning vertigo but makes me feel unsteady and achieved improved circulation and tissue healing under the skilled care of Connie Zhang. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema or a play with a new lease on life.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of recovering from a burn and needing help with scar mobility and movement? Connie Zhang works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of enhanced pelvic floor function and control (for relevant conditions). This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as walking their children to school or the park.
• If difficulty coordinating my movements, feeling clumsy is preventing you from fully enjoying returning to dancing, whether it's ballet, salsa, or just for fun, Connie Zhang offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining a deeper understanding of their condition and how to manage it proactively for long-term well-being, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• Many find that difficulty with fine motor skills like buttoning shirts or writing due to hand pain significantly impacts their ability to getting back to their regular, consistent gym workouts. Connie Zhang helps patients target improved hand and wrist function for tasks requiring dexterity with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.

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

Connie Zhang's practice at Bruyere Health is situated in the Centretown West, Chinatown neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near Arts Court and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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 Bruyere Health 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.

What is Bruyere Health'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 (or one business day) 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 (no-shows) without sufficient notice. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your appointment.

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

Patients in Ontario can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a physician's referral (this is known as direct access). However, some private/extended health insurance plans do require a doctor's referral for reimbursement of physiotherapy services. We strongly advise you to check the specific requirements of your individual insurance 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 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.

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 Bruyere Health or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

Bruyere Health
60 Cambridge Street
Ottawa, ON, K1R 7A5

Phone: (613) 562-6262

Di Zhang 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: XXX14

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=5d5cbffd-9102-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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