Ellen Alexandra Gay McKendry – Physiotherapist | Ottawa, ON

Ellen Alexandra Gay McKendry is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Ellen Alexandra Gay McKendry, Physiotherapist in Ottawa, ON, Sandra is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Sandra focuses on providing comprehensive assessment and treatment for a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal injuries, pain conditions, and movement dysfunctions to help patients of all ages restore function, manage pain, and improve their quality of life. Sandra serves a diverse range of patients, tailoring treatment plans to meet individual needs and goals.

Ellen Alexandra Gay McKendry completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Queen's University (Graduating Class of 1984). With extensive clinical experience, Sandra is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Sandra has a particular interest and further training in areas such as General Physiotherapy Practice and general physiotherapy.

Sandra's practice philosophy centers on empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Sandra has a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best possible care. Ellen Alexandra Gay McKendry offers consultations in English.

Ellen Alexandra Gay McKendry provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Back Neck Pain

• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Sharp, shooting, electric-like, or burning pain that travels along the path of a nerve due to issues with intervertebral discs or other spinal structures.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Back or neck pain accompanied by associated limb symptoms (pain, sensory changes, weakness) due to a constricted spinal canal, which physiotherapy can help manage conservatively.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Aching, sharp, or deep pain in the hip that may worsen with activity, specific movements, or even at rest.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: A 'pulled' muscle, often occurring during activities like sprinting, jumping, lifting, or sudden changes in direction, causing immediate pain and difficulty using the muscle.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Injuries to ankle ligaments, typically from twisting or 'rolling' motions, leading to pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Can result in recurrent sprains and chronic instability if not properly rehabilitated.

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. Sandra can assess your needs.

• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: A specialized physiotherapy treatment that uses a traction table or manual techniques to gently decompress spinal structures, relieve pressure, and promote healing.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Utilizing targeted electrical currents to help alleviate pain, manage discomfort, and support healing in conjunction with other physiotherapy interventions.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A complete assessment of your musculoskeletal system to pinpoint issues, set clear rehabilitation goals, and get you started on the path to recovery.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: The use of moist heat packs, paraffin wax, or other heat sources by your Physiotherapist to relax muscles, increase local blood flow, reduce stiffness, alleviate chronic pain, and improve tissue extensibility.
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): A non-invasive, evidence-based treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing, reduce pain, and promote tissue regeneration in stubborn soft tissue conditions that haven't responded to other therapies.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: LLLT or 'cold laser' therapy to stimulate your body's natural healing processes, provide pain relief, and improve function in conditions like tendinopathies, arthritis, or soft tissue injuries.

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

• Patients struggling with that burning pain between my shoulder blades from too much computer work can find dedicated and compassionate support from Sandra. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving getting back to hiking, running, or cycling pain-free and with renewed vigor, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as going on enjoyable fishing or camping trips again.
• Many individuals seek help from Sandra, their physiotherapist, when difficulty moving one side of my body or walking easily after a stroke starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve being active again without the constant worry of pain or re-injury, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like tackling home renovation and DIY projects with confidence.
• At Sandra's physiotherapy practice, individuals with pain or weakness that's stopping me from enjoying my favorite hobbies are guided towards feeling empowered to take control of their physical health journey. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as playing a full game of recreational hockey with their friends.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Sandra's clinic, common concerns like experiencing discomfort, back pain, or pelvic girdle pain during or after pregnancy are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of being able to play actively with their children or grandchildren again. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like simply being able to get through a workday without constant pain interruptions.

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

Ellen Alexandra Gay McKendry, Physiotherapist, is conveniently located in the Barrhaven (Longfields, Chapman Mills, Half Moon Bay) neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is situated near National Defence HQ (Pearkes Building) and is easily accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Definitely. A key aspect of physiotherapy is not just treating current problems but also preventing future ones. A Physiotherapist can assess your movement, identify potential weaknesses or imbalances that could lead to injury, and provide you with a personalized program of exercises and strategies. This proactive approach is beneficial for athletes, individuals with physically demanding jobs, or anyone looking to maintain long-term musculoskeletal health and avoid recurring pain.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

It's difficult to say exactly how many sessions you'll need without a thorough assessment, as everyone's situation and recovery path is unique. Some acute conditions might resolve in just a few sessions, while more chronic, complex, or significant issues may require a longer period of care to achieve lasting results. Your Physiotherapist will provide an estimated treatment timeline and plan after your first visit, and this will be revisited as your treatment progresses.

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, while a referral isn't legally required to see a Physiotherapist, some private/extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement. Check your 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 Ontarians. 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 is strict and waitlists may exist. Check your private insurance for coverage in private clinics.

How can I book an appointment at Ellen Alexandra Gay McKendry, Physiotherapist?

You can book an appointment by calling the clinic at (343) 698-1485 during business hours. Sandra may also offer online booking through her website. The reception team can assist you in finding a suitable appointment time.

Ellen Alexandra Gay McKendry, Physiotherapist
Chapman Mills Drive
Ottawa, ON, K2J 0P9

Phone: (343) 698-1485

Ellen Alexandra Gay McKendry 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: XXX85

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=7a7a96c5-8902-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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