Elizabeth Joy McKay – Physiotherapist | Hamilton, ON

Elizabeth Joy McKay is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at Hamilton Health Sciences in Hamilton, ON, Elizabeth McKay is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Elizabeth McKay's focus is assisting individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life after neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. Elizabeth McKay serves adults.

Elizabeth Joy McKay completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 2006). With extensive clinical experience, Elizabeth McKay is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Elizabeth McKay has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Neurological Physiotherapy.

Elizabeth McKay's practice philosophy centers on a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Elizabeth McKay adopts a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Elizabeth McKay offers consultations in English.

Elizabeth Joy McKay provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: A structured and individualized rehabilitation approach for individuals recovering from a mild traumatic brain injury, guiding a safe and gradual return to school, work, and sport activities.

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 chronic condition causing joint discomfort, stiffness (especially in the morning or after inactivity), and impacting your ability to perform daily activities, walk, or engage in hobbies.

Peripheral Nerve

• Nerve Entrapments / Compressions (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Sciatica, Meralgia Paresthetica): Symptoms such as localized or radiating pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness caused by mechanical compression or irritation of peripheral nerves at specific anatomical sites (entrapment points).
• Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic, Chemotherapy-Induced, Idiopathic): Improving safety, function, and quality of life for those with impaired sensation or strength due to various types of peripheral neuropathy.

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. Elizabeth McKay can assess your needs.

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Management & Rehabilitation: Comprehensive care for concussion recovery, including initial assessment of symptoms (headache, dizziness, etc.), management of associated neck pain or dysfunction, vestibular and oculomotor (eye movement) rehabilitation, and guided, gradual return-to-learn, work, and sport protocols.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Identifying and addressing habitual postures (e.g., from desk work, phone use) or ergonomic factors that may be contributing to your pain or dysfunction.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Educating you about your diagnosis, expected recovery timeline (prognosis), and the reasons behind your treatment plan to encourage active participation in your healing.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: An in-depth examination to fully understand your specific condition, allowing your Physiotherapist to create an effective and personalized rehabilitation plan.
• Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Disorders: Customized exercise-based programs (e.g., gaze stabilization, habituation, balance retraining exercises) prescribed by a trained Vestibular Physiotherapist to reduce vestibular symptoms, improve functional balance, decrease fall risk, and enhance confidence in movement.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Evaluation of your body's basic movements (like squatting, lunging, reaching) to highlight areas for improvement in stability, mobility, and motor control.

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

• For those whose that burning pain between my shoulder blades from too much computer work has made returning to a specific physical hobby they had to give up due to pain seem like a distant memory, Elizabeth McKay's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward greater confidence when walking, standing, or navigating challenging environments. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to returning to a specific physical hobby they had to give up due to pain with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• Many find that recovering my strength and mobility after a knee or hip replacement surgery significantly impacts their ability to playing their musical instrument (guitar, piano, violin, etc.) for extended periods. Elizabeth McKay helps patients target being able to climb stairs with ease and confidence once again with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Elizabeth McKay can help you move beyond recovering from surgery to my hand or wrist. The focus is on sleeping more soundly through the night due to reduced pain and discomfort, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as carrying a backpack or shoulder bag comfortably.
• The journey to enjoying family vacations and outings with more energy and less pain when faced with persistent recovering from a concussion and dealing with lingering symptoms like dizziness or headaches is made smoother and more effective with Elizabeth McKay's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like participating in water aerobics or other pool-based exercises.

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

Elizabeth McKay practices at Hamilton Health Sciences, situated in the Hamilton North End, Beasley neighborhood of Hamilton. The clinic is conveniently located near Jackson Square and is accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

Comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement is best for your physiotherapy appointment – think about what you might wear to a gym or for light exercise. If you're being treated for a lower-body issue (like hip or knee pain), shorts are very helpful. For upper-body issues (like shoulder or neck pain), a tank top or loose t-shirt is suitable so the Physiotherapist can properly examine and treat the area.

Is there parking available at or near Hamilton Health Sciences?

Paid parking is available in the parkade adjacent to the building. Limited free street parking may also be found in the vicinity, but please check local signage for restrictions.

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

In Ontario, you can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a doctor's referral. This is known as direct access. However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement; check your insurance policy before your appointment.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your first appointment (assessment and treatment plan) usually takes about 60 minutes. Follow-up appointments are typically 30 to 45 minutes long, depending on your treatment needs.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy uses hands-on techniques to reduce pain, increase joint movement, relax muscles, or improve nerve mobility. Techniques include joint glides, sustained pressure, soft tissue massage, and joint manipulations.

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

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

What is Hamilton Health Sciences's appointment cancellation policy?

We request at least 24 hours' notice for cancellations or rescheduling. A fee may be charged for late cancellations or missed appointments. Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to change your appointment.

Hamilton Health Sciences
300 Wellington St. N.
Hamilton, ON, L8L 0A4

Phone: (905) 521-2100

Elizabeth Joy McKay 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: XXX82

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=b2f7ceb1-8e02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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