Emma Jane Novak – Physiotherapist | Ottawa, ON

Emma Jane Novak is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at CHEO in Ottawa, ON, Emma Novak is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Emma Novak 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. Emma Novak serves infants, children, and adolescents.

Emma Jane Novak completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Toronto (Graduating Class of 1998). With extensive clinical experience, Emma Novak is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Emma Novak has a particular interest and further training in areas such as General Physiotherapy Practice and general physiotherapy.

Emma Novak's practice philosophy centers on a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals; and empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Emma Novak offers consultations in English.

Emma Jane Novak provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Sports Injury

• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee / Anterior Knee Pain): A common overuse injury in active individuals and athletes, sometimes referred to as 'runner's knee' or 'anterior knee pain', often related to biomechanical issues in how the kneecap tracks.
• IT Band Syndrome (Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome): A common cause of lateral knee pain in athletes, often linked to training errors, muscle imbalances (e.g., weak hip abductors), or poor biomechanics, which physiotherapy aims to address.
• Ligament Sprains (e.g., ACL, MCL, PCL, Ankle Ligaments): Injuries like a 'twisted ankle', 'knee ligament injury', or 'shoulder separation' (AC joint sprain) sustained during athletic activity or accidental falls.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Pain, weakness, or restricted movement in the shoulder joint, often experienced with overhead activities, lifting, reaching behind your back, or sleeping on the affected side.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Aching, sharp, or persistent pain located in the lower back, which may sometimes extend into the buttocks or legs, limiting your comfort.

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.

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. Emma Novak can assess your needs.

• 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.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Developing muscular strength and endurance to aid in injury recovery, support affected joints, improve biomechanics, and enhance athletic performance or demanding physical tasks.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Detailed analysis of your static and dynamic posture, with tailored exercises, stretches, and advice to help you improve alignment and reduce strain on your body.
• 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.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Customized exercise plans designed to help you recover from injury, manage chronic conditions, improve physical performance, and achieve your functional goals safely and effectively.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Developing control, strength, and endurance in your core musculature for improved functional performance, pain reduction, and prevention of re-injury.

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

• It's truly rewarding for Emma Novak to witness patients conquer persistent dizziness that isn't a spinning vertigo but makes me feel unsteady and experience enjoying family vacations and outings with more energy and less pain. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in playing their musical instrument (guitar, piano, violin, etc.) for extended periods again.
• Emma Novak believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If pain and difficulty with overhead movements like reaching into a cupboard is hindering your ability to reaching for items on high shelves or in cupboards without shoulder strain, a personalized plan focusing on feeling significantly stronger and more capable in their physical abilities can make all the difference.
• Many individuals seek help from Emma Novak, their physiotherapist, when difficulty with fine motor skills like buttoning shirts or writing due to hand pain starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve improved coordination for complex movements and fine motor tasks, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like getting back to their regular, consistent gym workouts.
• Living with recovering my strength and energy after being very sick (like with pneumonia or Long COVID) doesn't have to be your norm. Emma Novak applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards enjoying less stiffness in the mornings and throughout the day, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of painting or drawing for longer stretches without neck or shoulder ache.

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

Emma Novak practices at CHEO, situated in the Elmvale Acres, Hawthorne Meadows, Billings Bridge neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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.

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 or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement of physiotherapy services. It is strongly recommended that you check with your insurance provider to understand their specific requirements 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, such as post-hospitalization for certain conditions, for children/youth, seniors, or through Community Physiotherapy Clinics/Family Health Teams. Eligibility criteria are strict, and there may be waitlists. It is essential to check your private insurance coverage as many plans offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

Is there parking available at or near CHEO?

Yes, there is ample parking available near CHEO. Please check for signage regarding parking fees and restrictions.

How can I book an appointment at CHEO?

You can book an appointment by calling CHEO directly at (613) 737-7600 during business hours. Additional booking options may be available; please check the CHEO website for details.

CHEO
395 Smyth Road
Ottawa, ON, K1H 8L2

Phone: (613) 737-7600

Emma Jane Novak 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: XXX93

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=9f43c53c-8c02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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