Gayathri Dhandapani – Physiotherapist | Milton, ON

Gayathri Dhandapani is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Mex Physio in Milton, ON, Gayathri Dhandapani (Gaaya) is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Gayathri Dhandapani (Gaaya)'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. Gayathri Dhandapani (Gaaya) serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Gayathri Dhandapani completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University (Graduating Class of 2004). With extensive clinical experience, Gayathri Dhandapani (Gaaya) is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Gayathri Dhandapani (Gaaya) has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Gayathri Dhandapani (Gaaya)'s practice philosophy centers around a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting; and a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Gayathri Dhandapani (Gaaya) offers consultations in Arabic, English, Hindi, Malayalam, Tamil.

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

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Conservative physiotherapy management for trigger digit, which may include splinting to rest the tendon, specific tendon gliding exercises, activity modification advice, modalities to reduce inflammation, and education to prevent recurrence.
• 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.

Back Neck Pain

• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Pain, pins and needles, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg resulting from irritation or compression of a spinal nerve, often managed effectively with physiotherapy techniques like McKenzie method or neural mobilization.
• 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.

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. Gayathri Dhandapani (Gaaya) can assess your needs.

• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): The application of cold packs, ice massage, or other cold modalities by your Physiotherapist to reduce swelling, inflammation, muscle spasm, and acute pain, particularly after an injury.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Utilizing electrophysical agents as an adjunct to your physiotherapy treatments to aid recovery, improve muscle function, manage pain, or reduce swelling, tailored to your specific condition.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: A non-invasive physiotherapy modality that uses sound energy to stimulate cellular activity, enhance circulation, and support tissue recovery from injury or inflammation.
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): ESWT for chronic tendinopathies, heel spurs, and other musculoskeletal problems, aiming to break down scar tissue, increase blood flow, and trigger a healing response.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: Superficial heat application carefully monitored by your therapist to promote relaxation, pain relief, and enhance the effectiveness of other treatments.
• 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 Gayathri Dhandapani (Gaaya), 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 Mex Physio, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Gayathri Dhandapani (Gaaya) frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Patients struggling with sharp pain shooting down my leg, feeling a lot like sciatica can find dedicated and compassionate support from Gayathri Dhandapani (Gaaya). The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving a renewed sense of vitality and enthusiasm for daily activities, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as getting on and off the floor with ease.
• Many individuals seek help from Gayathri Dhandapani (Gaaya), their physiotherapist, when recovering my strength and energy after being very sick (like with pneumonia or Long COVID) starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve getting back to enjoying life's simple pleasures without physical limitations, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like being able to kneel or squat down to play with pets or children.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from difficulty moving one side of my body or walking easily after a stroke and achieved the ability to sit for longer periods (e.g., at a desk, in a car) without significant discomfort under the skilled care of Gayathri Dhandapani (Gaaya). This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as reading a good book for hours without experiencing neck pain or headaches with a new lease on life.
• Struggling with the frustration of recurrent dislocations or a feeling of instability in my shoulder or knee? Gayathri Dhandapani (Gaaya) develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving a deeper understanding of their condition and how to manage it proactively for long-term well-being. This is key to helping you get back to doing getting back to cycling for leisure or commuting with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.

Your personalized physiotherapy plan, developed with Gayathri Dhandapani (Gaaya), will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.

Gayathri Dhandapani (Gaaya) practices at Mex Physio, situated in the Milton South/West (Willmott, Harrison, Ford) neighborhood of Milton. The clinic is conveniently located near Highway 401 Access and is accessible via Milton Transit. Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

You can expect your initial physiotherapy visit to be around an hour long. This extended time allows for a comprehensive assessment of your condition and a collaborative discussion about your treatment goals. Subsequent follow-up sessions are generally between 30 and 45 minutes, though this can be adjusted based on your individual requirements. Your Physiotherapist will advise on the appropriate appointment length for your specific care.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your first visit, the Physiotherapist will conduct a detailed evaluation to get a full picture of your condition. This usually involves a thorough discussion about your symptoms, how they impact your daily life, any relevant medical history, and your personal goals for therapy. A physical assessment will then be performed to help pinpoint the cause of your problem and assess your physical capabilities. Afterwards, your therapist will explain their findings, collaborate with you to set treatment goals, and outline a proposed plan of care. You'll likely receive some initial advice, exercises, or hands-on treatment to begin your recovery journey.

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 advised to check your private insurance for coverage of services at private clinics.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Definitely. A key aspect of physiotherapy is not just treating current problems but also preventing future ones. A Physiotherapist can assess your movement, identify potential weaknesses or imbalances that could lead to injury, and provide you with a personalized program of exercises and strategies. This proactive approach is beneficial for athletes, individuals with physically demanding jobs, or anyone looking to maintain long-term musculoskeletal health and avoid recurring pain.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

Physiotherapy should not be an ordeal of pain. While you might feel some discomfort or a stretching sensation as you work to regain movement or strength, especially in the initial stages of treatment for an acute injury or chronic stiffness, it's rarely 'painful' in a distressing or harmful way. Your Physiotherapist will guide you through each step, modify treatments to suit your comfort and tolerance, and ensure that the overall experience is positive. The ultimate aim is to make you feel better, not worse.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy involves skilled, hands-on treatments performed by your Physiotherapist as part of your overall physiotherapy plan. These techniques are designed to assess and treat your joints, muscles, and nerves to decrease pain and improve your mobility and function. Examples include specific joint mobilizations to improve movement, soft tissue release techniques to address muscle tightness or scar tissue, and sometimes manipulations (adjustments) if indicated and appropriate for your condition and your therapist's qualifications.

What are Mex Physio's operating hours?

Mex Physio 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 or check our website/online booking portal for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

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.

Mex Physio
1 - 1594 Leger Way
Milton, ON, L9E 0B9

Phone: (905) 636-6121

Gayathri Dhandapani 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: XXX38

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=e041d91d-9402-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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