Gail C. Paterson – Physiotherapist | Ottawa, ON

Gail C. Paterson is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Arthritis Society in Ottawa, ON, Gail Paterson is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Gail Paterson 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. Gail Paterson serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Gail C. Paterson completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McGill University (Graduating Class of 1983). With extensive clinical experience, Gail Paterson is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Gail Paterson has a particular interest and further training in areas such as General Physiotherapy Practice and general physiotherapy.

Gail Paterson demonstrates a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Gail Paterson offers consultations in English, French.

Gail C. Paterson provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Sports Injury

• 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): Stretching or tearing of ligaments (the strong, fibrous bands that connect bones to each other at joints) due to sudden force, twisting, overstretching, or impact. Common in sports involving jumping, cutting, pivoting, or collisions. Examples include ACL/MCL tears in the knee or common ankle sprains.

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.

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. Gail Paterson can assess your needs.

• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Specialized manual techniques aimed at restoring normal movement and function to peripheral nerves that may be compressed, adhered, or under tension.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Targeted manual methods performed by your Physiotherapist to release tight or overactive muscles, address fascial restrictions, and alleviate pain arising from soft tissue dysfunction.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Hands-on physiotherapy focused on mobilizing restricted joints and soft tissues to promote healing, restore normal biomechanics, and alleviate pain.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Graded exercise programs designed to improve your overall physical fitness, endurance, strength, and functional capacity, especially beneficial after illness, surgery, or periods of prolonged inactivity.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Evidence-based exercise programs designed by your physiotherapist, including instruction and progression, to optimize your recovery and enhance your physical well-being.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Specific stretches designed by your therapist to target tight muscle groups relevant to your condition, helping to improve your flexibility and reduce your risk of injury.

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

• Living with wrist pain and tingling, possibly from carpal tunnel syndrome, especially at night doesn't have to be your norm. Gail Paterson applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards getting back to enjoying life's simple pleasures without physical limitations, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of attending and enjoying their children's or grandchildren's sporting events.
• Patients struggling with trouble performing repetitive tasks at work without pain can find dedicated and compassionate support from Gail Paterson. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving reduced muscle tension and a feeling of greater physical ease, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as taking long photography walks to capture nature or cityscapes.
• If feeling unsteady on my feet or experiencing dizziness and balance problems is preventing you from fully enjoying safely meeting the lifting requirements at their workplace, Gail Paterson offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining greater ease with dressing, bathing, and other self-care activities, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• Patients often come to Gail Paterson feeling defeated by experiencing discomfort, back pain, or pelvic girdle pain during or after pregnancy. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving restoring normal movement patterns essential for everyday tasks and resuming performing self-care tasks like hair washing or reaching their back becomes a realistic and attainable goal.

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

Gail Paterson's practice at the Arthritis Society is located in the Carlington, Copeland Park, Carleton Heights neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near Dow's Lake Pavilion and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

This is very individual and depends on many factors. After your comprehensive initial assessment, your Physiotherapist will be able to give you a better idea of the anticipated number of sessions and the frequency of visits needed to achieve your specific goals. We believe in open communication and will regularly review your progress with you, adjusting the treatment plan as you improve and as needed.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, in almost all cases, you will receive a customized home exercise program. These exercises are carefully chosen by your Physiotherapist to specifically target your issues and help you achieve your functional goals faster and more effectively. Performing them as recommended is very important for your progress and for maintaining the improvements you make during your clinic visits.

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. It is strongly recommended to check your private insurance for coverage of 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 (direct access). However, some private/extended health insurance plans require a referral for reimbursement. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes, absolutely! Physiotherapy plays a significant role in injury prevention and managing recurring pain. Your Physiotherapist can identify underlying risk factors such as muscle imbalances, poor movement patterns, postural issues, or biomechanical inefficiencies. By addressing these through targeted exercises, education on proper body mechanics, ergonomic advice, and activity modification, physiotherapy can help reduce your risk of initial injury, prevent re-injury, and manage chronic conditions more effectively, keeping you active and healthy.

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.

Arthritis Society
885 Meadowlands Drive East, Suite 503
Ottawa, ON, K2C 3N2

Phone: (613) 723-1083

Gail C. Paterson 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: XXX48

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=f80e7cb7-8902-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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