Hannah Marie Carmichael – Physiotherapist | Ottawa, ON

Hannah Marie Carmichael is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at The Ottawa Hospital-Civic Campus in Ottawa, ON, Hannah Carmichael is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Hannah Carmichael's role involves assisting individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life after neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. Hannah Carmichael serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Hannah Marie Carmichael completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Dalhousie University (Graduating Class of 2017). With clinical experience, Hannah Carmichael is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Hannah Carmichael has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Neurological Physiotherapy.

Hannah Carmichael empowers 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. Hannah Carmichael offers consultations in English, French.

Hannah Marie Carmichael provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Common Musculoskeletal

• 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.
• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or stiffness in the wrist, hand, or fingers, often resulting from overuse, repetitive tasks, arthritis, or specific conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or De Quervain's tenosynovitis.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Discomfort, limited range of motion, and persistent tension in the cervical spine (neck), often related to posture, an injury, stress, or sleeping position.

Vestibular Balance

• Vestibular Hypofunction (Unilateral or Bilateral): Reduced function of one (unilateral) or both (bilateral) inner ear balance systems (vestibular organs), leading to persistent dizziness, gaze instability (difficulty keeping vision clear during head movement), imbalance, and sometimes nausea.
• General Balance Deficits and Increased Fall Risk: Comprehensive balance assessment by a Physiotherapist to identify underlying causes of unsteadiness, followed by targeted exercise programs and strategies to help you stay steady on your feet.

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: Physiotherapy management of acute and persistent symptoms of a concussion, including addressing associated neck pain/dysfunction (cervicogenic component), vestibular (balance/dizziness) issues, oculomotor (eye movement) problems, and exertional intolerance.

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. Hannah Carmichael can assess your needs.

• 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.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Active patient participation through guided, gentle muscle contractions to restore normal joint play, reduce muscle guarding, and improve tissue length.
• Home-Based Physiotherapy Visits (Mobile Physio): Bringing expert physiotherapy services to you when clinic visits are challenging, ensuring continuity of care and personalized attention in your familiar surroundings.
• Tele-Rehabilitation / Virtual Physiotherapy Consultations: Convenient access to expert physiotherapy services from the comfort of your home, office, or any location with an internet connection, ideal for those with busy schedules, living in remote areas, or preferring virtual care.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Application of skilled soft tissue techniques to manage pain, stiffness, and improve function in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Improving the mobility and health of your nervous system to reduce pain, restore sensation, and enhance overall function.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Hannah Carmichael, 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 The Ottawa Hospital-Civic Campus, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Hannah Carmichael frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Tired of experiencing discomfort, back pain, or pelvic girdle pain during or after pregnancy interfering with taking long photography walks to capture nature or cityscapes? Hannah Carmichael uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve a safe and confident return to their favorite sport or recreational activity and regain your freedom of movement.
• It's truly rewarding for Hannah Carmichael to witness patients conquer recovering from a concussion and dealing with lingering symptoms like dizziness or headaches and experience regaining full function in an injured area, enabling a return to cherished activities. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in being able to carry their baby or toddler without straining their back or arms again.
• If knee pain, especially when going up/down stairs or after a run is preventing you from fully enjoying being able to perform deep cleaning tasks around the house, Hannah Carmichael offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining a more comfortable and physically manageable pregnancy experience, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• Patients often come to Hannah Carmichael feeling defeated by trouble with a constantly stiff and sore neck, making turning my head a pain. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving moving more freely and with greater agility than they have in years and resuming getting back to golfing 18 holes without their back acting up becomes a realistic and attainable goal.

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

Hannah Carmichael practices at The Ottawa Hospital-Civic Campus, situated in the Hintonburg, Civic Hospital, Westboro East neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near Little Italy (Corso Italia) and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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

It's recommended to wear or bring clothing that allows unrestricted movement and provides easy access for your physiotherapist to examine the body part being assessed or treated. For instance, if you have a knee problem, please wear or bring shorts. For shoulder issues, a sleeveless top or a top with loose armholes is often helpful. The goal is to make the assessment and treatment as effective as possible.

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.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial and integral component of most physiotherapy treatment plans. Your Physiotherapist will prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals. These exercises are designed to complement your in-clinic treatment, help you manage your symptoms effectively between sessions, accelerate your recovery, and empower you with tools for long-term self-management. Your active participation in your home program is key for optimal results.

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 private clinic coverage.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

In physiotherapy, manual therapy encompasses a range of 'hands-on' interventions. Your Physiotherapist may use these techniques to help reduce your pain, increase joint movement, relax tight muscles, or improve the mobility of your nerves. Common approaches include joint glides, sustained pressures, specific soft tissue massage, and, when indicated, joint manipulations. It's a key part of helping your body move better.

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

It's not uncommon to experience some temporary soreness or a mild increase in symptoms after certain physiotherapy treatments, especially in the initial stages or if you're starting new exercises. This usually subsides within 24-48 hours. However, if you experience a significant or sharp increase in pain, new or worsening neurological symptoms (like numbness, tingling, or weakness), or if your soreness lasts longer than expected, it's important to contact The Ottawa Hospital-Civic Campus or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

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.

How can I book an appointment at The Ottawa Hospital-Civic Campus?

You can book an appointment by calling the clinic directly or through their online booking system (if available). The reception team can assist you in finding a suitable appointment time.

The Ottawa Hospital-Civic Campus
1053 Carling Ave
Ottawa, ON, K1Y 4E9

Phone: (613) 798-5555

Hannah Marie Carmichael 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: XXX58

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=784450b8-4cf3-ec11-bb3c-0022486df36c

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