Elisabeth Anne Rubenschuh – Physiotherapist | Hamilton, ON

Elisabeth Anne Rubenschuh is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Hamilton Health Sciences, St. Peter's in Hamilton, ON, Liz Rubenschuh is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Liz Rubenschuh addresses 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. Liz Rubenschuh serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Elisabeth Anne Rubenschuh completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 2014). With clinical experience, Liz Rubenschuh is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Liz Rubenschuh has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Liz Rubenschuh employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting; a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Liz Rubenschuh offers consultations in English.

Elisabeth Anne Rubenschuh provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Common Musculoskeletal

• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): A broad term for common injuries affecting muscles, tendons (tendinitis/tendinopathy), ligaments (sprains), joint capsules (capsulitis), and bursae (bursitis), leading to pain, inflammation, and functional limitations.
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Difficulty with activities like reaching for objects, dressing, personal care, or carrying items due to underlying shoulder issues, which physiotherapy can help diagnose and treat.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Neck problems that interfere with your sleep quality, ability to work comfortably (especially at a desk), or perform everyday tasks without pain.

Arthritis

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: An autoimmune condition causing chronic inflammation, pain, stiffness, swelling, and potential deformity in multiple joints, often symmetrically. Physiotherapy aims to manage pain, maintain joint function and mobility, improve strength and endurance, provide joint protection strategies, and support self-management.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): A physiotherapy approach to address the unique challenges of AS, aiming to keep you as mobile and active as possible and support your spinal health and overall well-being.

Back Neck Pain

• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Symptoms of nerve compression originating from the spine, such as a 'slipped disc' or 'pinched nerve', causing radiating pain, altered sensation, or muscle weakness in a limb.
• 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.

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. Liz Rubenschuh can assess your needs.

• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Utilizing electrophysical agents as an adjunct to your physiotherapy treatments to aid recovery, improve muscle function, manage pain, or reduce swelling, tailored to your specific condition.
• 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.
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): Targeted shockwave application to promote tissue regeneration, modulate pain, and improve function in chronic injuries, often with lasting results.
• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: Therapeutic traction for the cervical (neck) or lumbar (low back) spine, used by physiotherapists to help reduce pain, decompress nerve roots, and improve symptoms associated with conditions like disc herniations, sciatica, or spinal stenosis.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Using therapeutic cold to manage the initial stages of an injury (e.g., sprains, strains) and control inflammatory responses, helping to limit tissue damage.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Liz Rubenschuh, 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 Hamilton Health Sciences, St. Peter's, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Liz Rubenschuh frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• It's truly rewarding for Liz Rubenschuh to witness patients conquer my child walking on their toes most of the time and experience enhanced ability to participate in social and community events. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in managing their personal care routines independently again.
• Don't let trouble performing repetitive tasks at work without pain dictate what you can and cannot do. Liz Rubenschuh offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at reduced swelling and inflammation in injured areas, helping you reclaim attending concerts or theatre shows and sitting comfortably throughout and enjoy a more functional life.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of clicking, popping, or pain in my jaw (TMJ issues) when I eat or talk? Liz Rubenschuh works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of less reliance on pain medication, trusting more in their body's ability to heal and function. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as handling their job that involves frequent standing, walking, or bending.
• Patients often come to Liz Rubenschuh feeling defeated by difficulty with fine motor skills like buttoning shirts or writing due to hand pain. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving increased endurance for walking, allowing for longer and more enjoyable outings and resuming returning to dancing, whether it's ballet, salsa, or just for fun becomes a realistic and attainable goal.

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

Liz Rubenschuh practices at Hamilton Health Sciences, St. Peter's, situated in the Hamilton East Central (Crown Point, Stipley) neighborhood of Hamilton. The clinic is conveniently located near McMaster University Medical Centre (West End) and is accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR). Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

In physiotherapy, manual therapy encompasses a range of 'hands-on' interventions. Your Physiotherapist may use these techniques to help reduce your pain, increase joint movement, relax tight muscles, or improve the mobility of your nerves. Common approaches include joint glides, sustained pressures, specific soft tissue massage, and, when indicated, joint manipulations. It's a key part of helping your body move better.

What is Hamilton Health Sciences, St. Peter's'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.

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 Hamilton Health Sciences, St. Peter's or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

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 insurance policy before your first appointment.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

Your first appointment will be an in-depth assessment. You'll discuss your issue, its history, and your health background. Liz Rubenschuh will perform physical tests to assess your movement and strength. The goal is to understand your condition fully to develop a tailored treatment plan. You may also receive initial home exercises or hands-on care.

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 children/youth, seniors, or through Community Physiotherapy Clinics/Family Health Teams), but eligibility criteria are strict. Check your private insurance for coverage.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy helps people improve their movement, function, and well-being. A registered Physiotherapist uses evidence-based techniques like exercise, manual therapy, and education to assess, diagnose, and treat injuries, pain conditions, and physical impairments. It can help reduce pain, increase mobility and strength, and improve your quality of life.

Hamilton Health Sciences, St. Peter's
88 Maplewood Ave.
Hamilton, ON, L8M 1W9

Elisabeth Anne Rubenschuh 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: XXX51

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=55b2eb39-9202-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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