Epifanio F. Gonsalves – Physiotherapist | Markham, ON

Epifanio F. Gonsalves is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Honsberger Physiotherapy in Markham, ON, Efan Gonsalves is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Efan Gonsalves's role involves 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. Efan Gonsalves specializes in the assessment, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries. Care is tailored to help athletes of all levels, from recreational to elite, return to their sport safely, optimize performance, and prevent future injuries. Efan Gonsalves serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Epifanio F. Gonsalves completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 2001). With extensive clinical experience, Efan Gonsalves is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Efan Gonsalves has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and Sports Physiotherapy.

Efan Gonsalves employs a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Efan Gonsalves demonstrates a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Efan Gonsalves offers consultations in English and French.

Epifanio F. Gonsalves provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Joint Pain

• 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.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Pain, tenderness, swelling, and dysfunction in a tendon (the strong cords that attach muscles to bones) due to overuse, repetitive strain, injury, or degeneration. Common sites include the Achilles, patellar tendon (knee), rotator cuff (shoulder), or elbow (tennis/golfer's elbow).

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Helping to alleviate the symptoms of a catching, locking, or painful finger/thumb through targeted physiotherapy interventions, potentially avoiding the need for injections or surgery in some cases.
• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Managing a variety of acute and chronic conditions of the hand and wrist, aiming to reduce pain, improve function, and prevent long-term disability.

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. Efan Gonsalves can assess your needs.

• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Gentle, active manual therapy techniques where you use your own specific muscle contractions against your therapist's controlled resistance to improve joint mobility, lengthen tight tissues, and reduce pain.
• Sports Injury Rehabilitation & Management: Helping you get back in the game quickly and safely with targeted sports physiotherapy, focusing on restoring strength, agility, and confidence.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Manual treatments specifically designed to improve joint mechanics, alleviate discomfort, reduce stiffness, and enhance your range of motion in the spine or limbs.
• Gait Analysis & Running/Walking Re-training: Helping you move better and reduce injury risk by analyzing and correcting your walking or running technique, addressing issues like overpronation, hip drop, or poor cadence.
• Sports Performance Enhancement & Injury Prevention: Physiotherapy interventions aimed at helping you reach your athletic potential by addressing physical limitations, improving power and agility, and implementing evidence-based injury prevention strategies.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Targeted therapy to alleviate symptoms such as shooting pain, pins and needles, or weakness arising from neural tension or entrapment.

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

• Discover how physiotherapy with Efan Gonsalves can help you move beyond hip pain when I walk, climb stairs, or try to sleep on my side. The focus is on feeling less fatigued during physical activities and throughout the day, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as working on detailed woodworking projects in their shop without hand pain.
• Struggling with the frustration of recovering my strength and mobility after a knee or hip replacement surgery? Efan Gonsalves develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving improved ability to lift and carry objects correctly and safely. This is key to helping you get back to doing dressing myself independently and without difficulty, including shoes and socks with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• Many find that a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns) significantly impacts their ability to participating in water aerobics or other pool-based exercises. Efan Gonsalves helps patients target implementing practical strategies to avoid re-injury during work or daily life with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• Tired of swelling in my arm or leg, possibly lymphedema, after surgery or treatment interfering with sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema or a play? Efan Gonsalves uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve reduced swelling and inflammation in injured areas and regain your freedom of movement.

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

Efan Gonsalves practices at Honsberger Physiotherapy, situated in the Unionville (South), Buttonville, Milliken Mills West neighborhood of Markham. The clinic is conveniently located near Uptown Market and is accessible via York Region Transit (YRT) / Viva. Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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 doctor's referral. This is known as direct access. However, some private/extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement of physiotherapy services. It is strongly recommended that you check with your insurance provider before your first appointment to understand their specific requirements.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy, delivered by a qualified Physiotherapist, is a science-based profession that focuses on restoring movement and function when someone is affected by injury, illness, or disability. It can also help to reduce your risk of future problems. Your physiotherapist will use techniques such as therapeutic exercise, manual therapy (hands-on treatment), education, and advice, empowering you to manage your health independently and achieve your physical goals.

What is Honsberger Physiotherapy'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 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 without sufficient notice. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your appointment.

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

To make your first appointment as smooth and productive as possible, please consider bringing: your health card, any doctor's referral letter (if applicable), results or reports of any imaging tests (X-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs) related to your current condition, a list of any medications you are currently taking, and your extended health benefits information (insurance card/policy number) for direct billing if available at our clinic. Wearing comfortable clothes is also a good idea.

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

Some temporary post-treatment soreness can be normal, much like after a good workout. However, if your pain significantly worsens, if you develop new concerning symptoms, or if the discomfort doesn't settle down within a day or two, please call us. Your Physiotherapist would want to know so they can offer guidance and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan. Open communication is key to your successful recovery.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial and integral component of most physiotherapy treatment plans. Your Physiotherapist will prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals. These exercises are designed to complement your in-clinic treatment, help you manage your symptoms effectively between sessions, accelerate your recovery, and empower you with tools for long-term self-management. Your active participation in your home program is key for optimal results.

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

OHIP generally does NOT cover physiotherapy services provided in private outpatient clinics. 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 that you check your private/extended health insurance plan, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

Honsberger Physiotherapy
675 Cochrane Drive, Unit 105
Markham, ON, L3R 0B8

Phone: (905) 940-2627

Epifanio F. Gonsalves 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: XXX81

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=8d033717-8d02-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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