Frances L. Garner – Physiotherapist | Hamilton, ON

Frances L. Garner is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton in Hamilton, ON, Frances Garner is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Frances Garner focuses on 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. Frances Garner serves adults.

Frances L. Garner completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Toronto (Graduating Class of 1992). With extensive clinical experience, Frances Garner is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Frances Garner has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

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

Frances L. Garner provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Arthritis

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Physiotherapy as an important part of a multidisciplinary team approach to managing rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory joint conditions (e.g., ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis), helping to minimize disease impact and maximize quality of life.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): A type of chronic inflammatory arthritis primarily affecting the spine (especially the sacroiliac joints and vertebrae), leading to pain, stiffness, and potential fusion of vertebrae, which can result in a stooped posture if not managed.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Physiotherapy to address residual joint stiffness, pain, swelling, and functional loss after an acute gout attack has subsided, or to help manage musculoskeletal impairments and tophi-related issues associated with chronic gout, always in conjunction with appropriate medical management for urate control.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Lower back issues that restrict your ability to bend, lift, sit for long periods, or enjoy your usual activities without discomfort.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Damage to the body's movement system, including issues like joint inflammation, ligament tears, or muscle overstretching, often requiring physiotherapy for optimal recovery.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: A 'rolled' or twisted ankle with subsequent swelling, tenderness, and difficulty putting your full weight on the foot.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Aching, soreness, or sharp pain experienced in the neck, which may include muscle spasms, trigger points, or reduced flexibility.

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. Frances Garner can assess your needs.

• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): The therapeutic use of different electrical currents by your Physiotherapist to achieve specific physiological effects, such as improving muscle contraction, reducing atrophy, or enhancing functional movement.
• 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.
• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: The application of gentle, controlled mechanical or manual force to distract (stretch) spinal segments, aiming to alleviate pressure on intervertebral discs, nerves, and facet joints.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Application of precise, passive movements to joints to decrease stiffness, relieve pain, and facilitate easier, more comfortable movement.
• 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.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Ultrasound therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, often used to prepare tissues for manual therapy or exercise, or to manage acute and chronic soft tissue injuries.

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

• Physiotherapy with Frances Garner can be a transformative turning point for those affected by dealing with pelvic pain or bladder/bowel control issues (for both men and women). The shared goal is achieving the ability to sit for longer periods (e.g., at a desk, in a car) without significant discomfort, paving the way for you to enjoy participating in light recreational activities like bowling or mini-golf and a more active, vibrant life.
• Frances Garner believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If general muscle strains and pulls from overdoing it at the gym or in the garden is hindering your ability to getting on and off the floor with ease, a personalized plan focusing on a better ability to cope with the physical stresses of daily life can make all the difference.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Frances Garner can help you move beyond wrist pain and tingling, possibly from carpal tunnel syndrome, especially at night. The focus is on a return to intimacy without the fear of pain or discomfort, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as going on birdwatching outings in various terrains.
• Don't let recovering from a painful and limiting work-related injury (WCB/CNESST/WorkSafe claim) dictate what you can and cannot do. Frances Garner offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at enjoying family vacations and outings with more energy and less pain, helping you reclaim getting back to their regular, consistent gym workouts and enjoy a more functional life.

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

Frances Garner's practice at St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton is situated in the Corktown, Stinson neighborhood of Hamilton. The clinic is conveniently located near Mohawk College (Fennell Campus) and is accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

What are St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton's operating hours?

St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and some practitioners offer Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. However, hours can vary by practitioner and day, so please call our office at (905) 522-1155 or check our website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

How can I book an appointment at St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (905) 522-1155 during our business hours. Our friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable appointment time with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

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.

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. However, some private/extended health insurance plans require a referral for reimbursement. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

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

Some temporary post-treatment soreness can be normal. 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.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your first appointment usually takes about 60 minutes. Follow-up appointments are typically 30 to 45 minutes. The exact duration will depend on your treatment.

St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton
50 Charlton Ave. E.
Hamilton, ON, L8N 4A6

Phone: (905) 522-1155

Frances L. Garner 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: XXX62

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=9f5f6ef0-8a02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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