Gary Yu-Kai Siu – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Gary Yu-Kai Siu is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Sunnybrook- St. John's Rehab in Toronto, ON, Gary Siu is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Gary Siu's focus is 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. Gary Siu serves adults.

Gary Yu-Kai Siu completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Toronto (Graduating Class of 2006). With clinical experience, Gary Siu is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Gary Siu has a particular interest or further training in areas such as General Physiotherapy Practice and general physiotherapy.

Gary Siu employs a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals; a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting; empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Gary Siu offers consultations in Cantonese, English.

Gary Yu-Kai Siu provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Sports Injury

• Muscle Strains (e.g., Hamstring, Calf, Groin, Quadriceps, Rotator Cuff): Common athletic injuries affecting major muscle groups such as the hamstrings, calves, groin (adductors), quadriceps, or rotator cuff muscles of the shoulder.
• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee / Anterior Knee Pain): Pain felt around, under, or behind the kneecap (patella), often described as a dull ache that is aggravated by activities like running, jumping, squatting, using stairs (especially going down), or prolonged sitting with the knee bent.

Back Neck Pain

• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Nerve compression symptoms due to a narrowing (stenosis) of the spinal canal or the small openings where nerves exit the spine (foramina), most commonly in the lumbar (lower back) or cervical (neck) regions.
• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Post-traumatic neck pain, restricted movement, and associated issues common after car accidents, which benefit from early and appropriate physiotherapy intervention.
• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Sharp, shooting, electric-like, or burning pain that travels along the path of a nerve due to issues with intervertebral discs or other spinal structures.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Pain and muscle tension related to ergonomic factors at work or home, muscle imbalances, and suboptimal body mechanics or movement habits.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Common shoulder problems such as rotator cuff issues (tendinopathy, small tears), impingement syndrome, or adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) significantly affecting arm function and daily comfort.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: A 'rolled' or twisted ankle with subsequent swelling, tenderness, and difficulty putting your full weight on the foot.
• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Hip problems that interfere with your mobility, sleep, and daily comfort, which can be effectively managed with physiotherapy interventions.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: Damage or tearing of muscle fibers, ranging from a mild overstretch (Grade 1 strain) to a partial or complete rupture (Grade 2 or 3 tear), typically caused by sudden forceful contraction, excessive stretch, or direct trauma.

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. Gary Siu can assess your needs.

• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): A systematic screening process, such as FMS™ or SFMA™ (if your Physiotherapist is certified), to understand how you move and guide preventative or corrective exercise programs.
• 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.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Structured physical activities and exercises aimed at helping you safely regain strength, stamina, and confidence in your body's abilities, tailored to your current level.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Guided stretching routines and flexibility exercises prescribed by your Physiotherapist, aimed at improving your range of motion, reducing muscle tightness or stiffness, and enhancing overall movement quality.
• 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.
• 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 Gary Siu, 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 Sunnybrook- St. John's Rehab, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Gary Siu frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Living with one leg feeling shorter than the other, causing hip or back pain doesn't have to be your norm. Gary Siu applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards being able to travel more comfortably and with less planning around physical limitations, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of carrying a backpack or shoulder bag comfortably.
• Patients often come to Gary Siu feeling defeated by my child walking on their toes most of the time. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving greater confidence when walking, standing, or navigating challenging environments and resuming swimming laps at the pool for fitness and relaxation becomes a realistic and attainable goal.
• For those whose recovering my strength and energy after being very sick (like with pneumonia or Long COVID) has made simply enjoying leisurely daily walks around their neighborhood for fresh air seem like a distant memory, Gary Siu's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward feeling more resilient and less vulnerable to minor strains or injuries. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to simply enjoying leisurely daily walks around their neighborhood for fresh air with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• Many find that managing stiffness, tremors, and movement challenges with Parkinson's disease significantly impacts their ability to easily carrying groceries in from the car in one or two trips. Gary Siu helps patients target improved breathing mechanics and capacity through postural correction with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.

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

Gary Siu's practice at Sunnybrook- St. John's Rehab is situated in the Newtonbrook, Willowdale neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Princess of Wales Theatre and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at Sunnybrook- St. John's Rehab treat?

Our Physiotherapists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. This includes, but is not limited to, issues like back and neck pain, joint problems (such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery), and sports injuries. We also have therapists with specialized skills in areas like pelvic health and other general physiotherapy areas. Our treatments often involve Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified), Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment, and patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.

How can I book an appointment at Sunnybrook- St. John's Rehab?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (416) 226-6780 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.

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

In Ontario, you can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a physician's referral (direct access). However, some private/extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

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.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

Physiotherapy should not be painful. While you might feel some discomfort or a stretching sensation, it's rarely 'painful' in a distressing or harmful way. Your Physiotherapist will guide you through each step and modify treatments to suit your comfort and tolerance.

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

Wear or bring clothing that allows unrestricted movement and easy access for your physiotherapist to examine the body part being assessed or treated. For instance, wear shorts if you have a knee problem, or a sleeveless top for shoulder issues.

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

OHIP generally does NOT cover physiotherapy services 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. Check your private insurance for coverage.

Sunnybrook- St. John's Rehab
285 Cummer Ave.
Toronto, ON, M2M2G1

Phone: (416) 226-6780

Gary Yu-Kai Siu 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: XXX22

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=5f86bfbd-8e02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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