Haard Sanjaykumar Rao

Haard Sanjaykumar Rao provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Joint pain, aching, and functional limitation due to the progressive loss of cartilage, which physiotherapy can help manage through exercise, education, and pain relief strategies.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Pain, tenderness, swelling, and dysfunction in a tendon (the strong cords that attach muscles to bones) due to overuse, repetitive strain, injury, or degeneration. Common sites include the Achilles, patellar tendon (knee), rotator cuff (shoulder), or elbow (tennis/golfer's elbow).

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.
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Pain, weakness, or restricted movement in the shoulder joint, often experienced with overhead activities, lifting, reaching behind your back, or sleeping on the affected side.
• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Discomfort experienced in the hip region, groin, outer hip, or buttock, potentially stemming from joint inflammation (bursitis), muscle strains, tendinopathy, or conservative management of labral tears.

Neurological

• Parkinson's Disease Management & Movement Therapy: Movement therapy designed by a Neuro Physiotherapist to address common Parkinson's symptoms like bradykinesia (slowness of movement), rigidity (stiffness), postural instability (balance problems), freezing of gait, and tremors.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Symptom Management & Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy support for the physical challenges of Multiple Sclerosis, focusing on maximizing mobility, safety, and participation in daily life.
• Muscular Dystrophy / Myopathy - Supportive Physiotherapy Care: Supportive physiotherapy care designed to enhance quality of life, manage the physical challenges of various muscle diseases, and promote independence for as long as possible.

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. Haard Rao can assess your needs.

• Chronic & Persistent Pain Management Programs: Personalized physiotherapy programs designed to reduce the impact of chronic pain on your life, helping you to gradually increase activity levels and re-engage in meaningful activities.
• Geriatric Physiotherapy & Seniors' Health: Specialized physiotherapy programs focused on addressing the unique physical needs of older adults, aiming to improve mobility, strength, balance, flexibility, manage age-related conditions (e.g., osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, sarcopenia), and reduce the risk of falls.
• Rehabilitation for Age-Related Deconditioning & Loss of Autonomy: Helping seniors regain their physical capacity, reduce dependency, and improve their ability to manage at home safely and effectively.
• Tele-Rehabilitation / Virtual Physiotherapy Consultations: Receiving personalized physiotherapy care online through secure and interactive video sessions with your qualified Physiotherapist, including real-time exercise correction and tailored advice.
• Fibromyalgia & Widespread Pain Management: A holistic and supportive physiotherapy approach to managing the diffuse pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and other symptoms commonly associated with fibromyalgia.
• Home-Based Physiotherapy Visits (Mobile Physio): Convenient and effective physiotherapy care delivered in your home by a qualified Physiotherapist, focusing on your specific goals and challenges.

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

• Living with my child walking on their toes most of the time doesn't have to be your norm. Haard Rao applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards a noticeable reduction in daily discomfort, making everyday tasks easier and more enjoyable, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of maintaining an upright posture while working on their computer for hours.
• Rediscover your ability to simply enjoying leisurely daily walks around their neighborhood for fresh air without the constant burden of knee pain, especially when going up/down stairs or after a run. Haard Rao focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to improved joint health and a slowing of degenerative processes through better biomechanics, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
• Don't let facial weakness or drooping on one side (like Bell's Palsy) dictate what you can and cannot do. Haard Rao offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at improved core stability and control, leading to better posture and reduced strain, helping you reclaim going on birdwatching outings in various terrains and enjoy a more functional life.
• If an awkward gait or limping when I walk is preventing you from fully enjoying getting on and off the floor with ease, Haard Rao offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining getting back their independence with daily activities and personal care, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.

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

Haard Rao's practice at Pickering Physiotherapy Institute is situated in the Bay Ridges, West Shore neighborhood of Pickering. The clinic is conveniently located near the Commercial Corridor and is accessible via Durham Region Transit (DRT). Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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.

Does Pickering Physiotherapy Institute offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

While we do not offer direct billing at this time, we provide detailed official receipts that you can easily submit to your insurer for reimbursement according to your plan. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. Always confirm your specific coverage details, including any annual maximums, per-visit limits, or deductible requirements, directly with your insurance provider, as plans vary significantly. You are responsible for any portion not covered by your insurance.

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

Patients in Ontario 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.

Is there parking available at or near Pickering Physiotherapy Institute?

Ample free patient parking is available directly in front of and beside our building. Look for the designated patient spots.

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. Contact your insurance provider before your first appointment to understand your plan's specifics, including annual maximums, per-visit limits, co-payments, referral requirements, and direct billing options. If Pickering Physiotherapy Institute offers direct billing and your plan allows it, we can bill your insurer directly for the covered portion. You'll be responsible for any co-payment or remaining balance. Bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. If direct billing isn't possible, we'll provide an official receipt for your insurer.

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 children/youth, seniors, or through Community Physiotherapy Clinics/Family Health Teams), but eligibility is strict and waitlists may exist. Check your private insurance for coverage.

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.

Pickering Physiotherapy Institute
375 Kingston Road
Pickering, ON, L1V 1A3

Phone: (647) 492-4568

Haard Sanjaykumar Rao 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: XXX57

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=baa89961-617b-ed11-81ad-002248d51760

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