Fiona Ly – Physiotherapist | Markham, ON

Fiona Ly is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Resident Physiotherapist). Practicing at First Markham Physiotherapy and Rehab in Markham, ON, Fiona is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards.

Fiona'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. Fiona serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Fiona Ly completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Toronto (Graduating Class of 2024). With clinical experience, Fiona Ly is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Fiona Ly has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy. Fiona embraces a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals; a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Fiona Ly offers consultations in English.

Fiona Ly provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Commonly known as 'wear-and-tear' arthritis, this condition affects various joints, often worsening with age, overuse, or previous injury, and can significantly impact daily function.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Inflammation (tendinitis) or, more commonly, degeneration (tendinosis/tendinopathy) of tendons, leading to localized pain that typically worsens with activity or loading of the tendon.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Disorders affecting hand and wrist function, making daily tasks such as gripping objects, typing, writing, or fine motor activities difficult and painful.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Aching, soreness, or sharp pain experienced in the neck, which may include muscle spasms, trigger points, or reduced flexibility.

Hand Wrist

• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Focused physiotherapy care for complex hand and wrist problems, often involving custom splinting or orthosis fabrication, manual therapy (joint and soft tissue mobilization), specific exercises to restore dexterity, strength, and range of motion, scar management, and sensory re-education.
• 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.

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. Fiona can assess your needs.

• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Gentle, specific movements and mobilizations designed to address nerve-related pain (like sciatica or carpal tunnel symptoms), tingling, numbness, or restrictions by improving the nerve's ability to glide freely and reducing irritation.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: A variety of hands-on methods such as therapeutic massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and active release style techniques to reduce muscle tension, break down scar tissue, improve circulation, and enhance tissue flexibility.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Helping you understand how your posture impacts your musculoskeletal health and providing you with tools for lasting postural improvement and pain relief.
• 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: A complete assessment of your musculoskeletal system to pinpoint issues, set clear rehabilitation goals, and get you started on the path to recovery.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Using controlled isometric and isotonic muscle contractions, as directed by your Physiotherapist, to address joint restrictions and muscle imbalances effectively.

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

• Don't let awful foot pain first thing in the morning, like I'm walking on glass (plantar fasciitis) dictate what you can and cannot do. Fiona offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at enhanced pelvic floor function and control (for relevant conditions), helping you reclaim maintaining their balance and stability while walking on uneven ground or trails and enjoy a more functional life.
• Fiona frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of recovering from a painful and limiting work-related injury (WCB/CNESST/WorkSafe claim). A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets improved performance in work-related physical demands and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like actively participating in family outings and vacations without holding others back.
• For those whose breathing difficulties and shortness of breath with COPD or asthma, especially during activity has made easily carrying groceries in from the car in one or two trips seem like a distant memory, Fiona's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward increased endurance for walking, allowing for longer and more enjoyable outings. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to easily carrying groceries in from the car in one or two trips with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• Struggling with the frustration of my baby/child having trouble with their motor skills, like delayed rolling, sitting or walking? Fiona develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving reduced muscle tension and a feeling of greater physical ease. This is key to helping you get back to doing dancing the night away at social events and family celebrations with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.

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

Fiona practices at First Markham Physiotherapy and Rehab, situated in the Unionville (South), Buttonville, Milliken Mills West neighborhood of Markham. The clinic is conveniently located near Markham GO Station and is accessible via York Region Transit (YRT) / Viva. Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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.

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 of the population. 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. Always check your private/extended health insurance plans, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics. Verify your specific eligibility for any public coverage directly with the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

The first physiotherapy session is primarily an in-depth assessment. Expect to spend time talking with your Physiotherapist about your specific issue, its history, and your overall health background. Your therapist will then perform various physical tests to assess your movement, strength, and any areas of concern. The main goal of this first visit is to understand your condition fully so that a tailored and effective treatment plan can be developed collaboratively with you. You might also receive your first set of home exercises or some initial hands-on care to start the healing process.

I have private health insurance. How does that work with physiotherapy payments?

Many private health insurance plans offer full or partial coverage for registered physiotherapy services. We recommend you contact your insurance provider directly before your first appointment to understand the specifics of your plan. Key things to check are: your annual maximum for physiotherapy, any per-visit limits or co-payments, whether a doctor's referral is required for reimbursement, and if your plan allows for direct billing by the clinic. If First Markham Physiotherapy and Rehab offers direct billing and your plan allows it, we can often bill your insurer directly for the covered portion. You would then be responsible for any co-payment or remaining balance not covered by your plan at the time of service. Please bring your insurance card and all necessary policy details to your first appointment. If direct billing is not possible, we will provide you with an official receipt that you can submit to your insurer.

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

Patients in ON 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 of physiotherapy services. Check your individual insurance policy before your first appointment.

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

Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows the Physiotherapist to easily access and assess the area being treated, and permits you to move freely for any exercises or movements. For example, shorts are ideal for knee, hip, or ankle issues, while a tank top or loose t-shirt works well for shoulder, neck, or upper back problems. Athletic wear or gym attire is generally a good choice. You may also be provided with a gown if needed.

First Markham Physiotherapy and Rehab
3-3085 Highway 7 East
Markham, ON, L3R 0J5

Phone: (905) 940-1777

Fiona Ly 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: XXX87

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=8cd59b1a-026a-ef11-a670-0022483cae12

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