Harikrishnan Gopalakrishnan Nair – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Harikrishnan Gopalakrishnan Nair is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at Women's College Hospital in Toronto, ON, Hari Nair is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Hari Nair focuses on managing acute and chronic conditions affecting the heart and lungs, such as COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, post-operative cardiac or respiratory recovery, and post-COVID symptoms. Hari Nair's approach involves breathing exercises, airway clearance, exercise prescription, and education, serving a diverse range of patients.

Harikrishnan Gopalakrishnan Nair completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Calicut (Graduating Class of 2005). With extensive clinical experience, Hari Nair is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Hari Nair has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy.

Hari Nair employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Hari Nair fosters a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Hari Nair maintains a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Hari Nair offers consultations in English, Hindi, Kannada, Malayalam, Tamil.

Harikrishnan Gopalakrishnan Nair provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Post Surgical

• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): Restoring your ability to perform daily tasks, work, and recreational activities by addressing pain, stiffness, and weakness after your shoulder surgery.
• Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): A structured physiotherapy plan to help you recover full function, independence, and confidence in your new hip after replacement surgery.
• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): Supportive physiotherapy to aid your recovery and help you manage symptoms after back or neck surgery, focusing on education, safe movement strategies, and specific exercises.

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): Conditions like 'jumper's knee' (patellar tendinopathy), 'swimmer's shoulder' (rotator cuff tendinopathy), or 'tennis elbow' (lateral epicondylitis) caused by tendon issues that limit your ability to perform specific tasks.

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.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Aching, sharp, or persistent pain located in the lower back, which may sometimes extend into the buttocks or legs, limiting your comfort.

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. Hari Nair can assess your needs.

• 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.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: A progressive program designed to build a strong and stable core, improving your body's foundation for all movements and reducing strain on other structures.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Active patient participation through guided, gentle muscle contractions to restore normal joint play, reduce muscle guarding, and improve tissue length.
• Post-COVID-19 Condition / Long COVID Rehabilitation: Tailored rehabilitation programs focusing on symptom-guided graded exercise therapy (starting very gently), pacing strategies to manage energy levels (avoiding post-exertional malaise), breathing exercises, functional retraining for daily activities, and education to help individuals recover from the long-term effects of COVID-19.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Developing muscular strength and endurance to aid in injury recovery, support affected joints, improve biomechanics, and enhance athletic performance or demanding physical tasks.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Hari Nair, 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 Women's College Hospital, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Hari Nair frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Living with feeling generally stiff, achy, and less mobile than I used to be doesn't have to be your norm. Hari Nair applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards feeling a substantial improvement in their mobility and range of motion for easier movement, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty.
• Rediscover your ability to driving for longer periods without neck or back pain without the constant burden of recurrent dislocations or a feeling of instability in my shoulder or knee. Hari Nair focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to improved coordination for complex movements and fine motor tasks, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
• With Hari Nair's help, managing swelling in my arm or leg, possibly lymphedema, after surgery or treatment to achieve being active again without the constant worry of pain or re-injury becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like enjoying long, challenging hikes on weekends again.
• For those whose that 'pins and needles' feeling that won't go away has made playing actively and roughhousing with their young kids or grandkids seem like a distant memory, Hari Nair's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward enhanced pelvic floor function and control (for relevant conditions). Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to playing actively and roughhousing with their young kids or grandkids with greater comfort and renewed confidence.

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

Hari Nair practices at Women's College Hospital, situated in the University of Toronto, Harbord neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Exhibition Place and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession dedicated to helping people of all ages improve their movement, function, and overall well-being. A registered Physiotherapist uses evidence-based techniques like targeted exercise, hands-on manual therapy, and personalized education to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of injuries, pain conditions, and physical impairments affecting your muscles, bones, joints, nerves, and even your cardiorespiratory system. It can help you reduce pain, increase mobility and strength, recover from surgery, prevent future injuries, and enhance your quality of life.

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. Always check your private/extended health insurance plans, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics. Verify your specific eligibility for any public coverage directly with the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Initial assessment appointments are generally longer to allow for a thorough evaluation and discussion, typically lasting between 45 to 60 minutes. Subsequent follow-up treatment sessions are usually shorter, often ranging from 30 to 45 minutes. However, the duration can vary depending on your specific needs, the complexity of your condition, the type of treatment being provided, and the treatment plan designed by your Physiotherapist.

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.

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.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Absolutely! Home exercises are a vital part of your rehabilitation journey and empower you to take an active role in your recovery process. Your Physiotherapist will carefully select and teach you exercises specific to your needs. These exercises help to reinforce what's done in the clinic, manage your condition effectively, and ensure you continue progressing towards your goals even when you're not in a session.

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 (annual maximum, per-visit limits, co-payments, referral requirements, direct billing). If direct billing is possible, we can bill your insurer directly; otherwise, we'll provide a receipt for you to submit.

What are Women's College Hospital's operating hours?

Women's College Hospital 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. Hours can vary, so please call or check our website for the most current information.

Women's College Hospital
76 Grenville Street, 4th Floor
Toronto, ON, M5S 1B2

Phone: (416) 323-6400

Harikrishnan Gopalakrishnan Nair 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: XXX09

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=90123c5e-1032-e811-8142-480fcff44541

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