Elisabeth M. L. Slack – Physiotherapist | Burlington, ON

Elisabeth M. L. Slack is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Burlington Sports Therapy and Physiotherapy in Burlington, ON, Beth is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Beth's approach focuses on 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. Beth serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Elisabeth M. L. Slack completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 2009). With extensive clinical experience, Elisabeth M. L. Slack is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Elisabeth M. L. Slack has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Beth's practice philosophy centers on empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results; Beth promotes preventative care and long-term wellness for the Burlington community through proactive physiotherapy. Elisabeth M. L. Slack offers consultations in English.

Elisabeth M. L. Slack provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Arthritis

• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): An inflammatory arthritis that can affect some people with psoriasis (a skin condition), causing joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and sometimes affecting tendons (enthesitis) and ligaments. Can affect small or large joints, often asymmetrically, and sometimes the spine.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Specific exercises (e.g., McKenzie exercises, stretching, postural exercises) and strategies to help individuals with ankylosing spondylitis maintain function, reduce stiffness, and prevent long-term spinal changes.
• 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.

Hand Wrist

• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Specialized physiotherapy for conditions affecting the intricate structures of the hand and wrist, such as fractures (e.g., Colles', scaphoid), tendon lacerations or ruptures (e.g., flexor/extensor tendon repairs), ligament sprains/tears (e.g., skier's thumb, TFCC injuries), repetitive strain injuries, or arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis). Includes both conservative management and post-operative rehabilitation.
• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): A condition where a finger or thumb gets stuck or 'catches' in a bent position, then may snap straight (like pulling a trigger). Caused by inflammation and narrowing of the tendon sheath around the flexor tendon.

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Joint pain, aching, and functional limitation due to the progressive loss of cartilage, which physiotherapy can help manage through exercise, education, and pain relief strategies.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Persistent tendon pain that can interfere with your sports, work, or daily activities, often requiring specific loading programs and advice from a physiotherapist for effective management.

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. Beth 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.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Development of a tailored therapeutic exercise program by your Physiotherapist, focused on your specific rehabilitation needs, strength goals, flexibility improvements, balance, and overall conditioning.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): A form of manual therapy that actively involves you in your treatment, utilizing your body's muscular effort to achieve specific therapeutic effects on restricted joints and shortened soft tissues.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Targeted exercises using resistance (such as bodyweight, resistance bands, free weights, or gym equipment) to build muscle strength, power, and endurance, tailored to your specific rehabilitation needs or performance goals.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Education and instruction on effective and safe stretching techniques to help you maintain or improve your body's flexibility and joint mobility.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Improving the mobility and health of your nervous system to reduce pain, restore sensation, and enhance overall function.

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

• Rediscover your ability to painting or drawing for longer stretches without neck or shoulder ache without the constant burden of an awkward gait or limping when I walk. Beth focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to enjoying cycling or swimming regularly without pain or limitation, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Beth's clinic, common concerns like my child walking on their toes most of the time are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of improved circulation and tissue healing. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like getting back to golfing 18 holes without their back acting up.
• Many find that feeling 'off-balance' and worried about falling, especially as I get older significantly impacts their ability to engaging in volunteer work that might have physical demands. Beth helps patients target being able to play actively with their children or grandchildren again with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• Beth believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If pain in my shins when I try to run or be active (shin splints) is hindering your ability to going on birdwatching outings in various terrains, a personalized plan focusing on developing better body awareness and understanding of healthy movement patterns can make all the difference.

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

Beth's practice, Burlington Sports Therapy and Physiotherapy, is conveniently located in the Headon Forest, Palmer neighborhood of Burlington. The clinic is situated near Mapleview Shopping Centre and is easily accessible via Burlington Transit. Our clinic is accessible. 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 Ontarians. 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 recommended to check your private insurance for coverage as many plans offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy refers to specialized hands-on techniques used by a Physiotherapist to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. This can include joint mobilization (gentle, rhythmic gliding movements), joint manipulation (skilled, high-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts, where appropriate and within the therapist's scope and with your consent), various soft tissue mobilization techniques (like massage, myofascial release, trigger point release), and neural mobilization (gentle techniques to improve nerve movement). The primary goals are to reduce pain, improve range of motion, restore optimal joint mechanics, reduce muscle tension, and enhance tissue repair and function.

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 (direct access). However, some private/extended health insurance plans require a referral for reimbursement. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

Does Burlington Sports Therapy and Physiotherapy offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, Burlington Sports Therapy and Physiotherapy offers direct billing for most major private insurance companies such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, and Blue Cross. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. Always confirm your specific coverage details, including any annual maximums, per-visit limits, or deductible requirements, directly with your insurance provider.

Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?

It's helpful to bring your health card, any referral letters from other healthcare providers if you were referred, and any reports or images from relevant medical tests (X-rays, MRIs, etc.) related to your condition. If you have private insurance coverage for physiotherapy, please bring your insurance card or policy details for billing purposes. Comfortable attire that allows for easy movement during the assessment is also recommended.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

Physiotherapy should not be painful. While you might feel some discomfort or a stretching sensation, it's rarely 'painful' in a distressing or harmful way. Your Physiotherapist will guide you through each step and modify treatments to suit your comfort and tolerance.

Is there parking available at or near Burlington Sports Therapy and Physiotherapy?

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

Burlington Sports Therapy and Physiotherapy
35-3455 Harvester Road
Burlington, ON, L7N 3W5

Phone: (905) 220-7858

Elisabeth M. L. Slack 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: XXX95

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=6b9aa307-9002-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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