Heather Anne Drivakos – Physiotherapist | Etobicoke, ON

Heather Anne Drivakos is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at William Osler Health System in Etobicoke, ON, Heather Anne Drivakos is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Heather Anne Drivakos'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. Heather Anne Drivakos serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Heather Anne Drivakos completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Toronto (Graduating Class of 2003). With extensive clinical experience, Heather Anne Drivakos is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Heather Anne Drivakos has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Heather Anne Drivakos's practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Etobicoke community through proactive physiotherapy. Heather Anne Drivakos adopts a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Heather Anne Drivakos offers consultations in English.

Heather Anne Drivakos provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Post Surgical

• 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.
• 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.

Arthritis

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: An autoimmune condition causing chronic inflammation, pain, stiffness, swelling, and potential deformity in multiple joints, often symmetrically. Physiotherapy aims to manage pain, maintain joint function and mobility, improve strength and endurance, provide joint protection strategies, and support self-management.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Helping you regain mobility, reduce discomfort, and improve function in affected joints after a gout episode, as part of your overall gout management plan.

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. Heather Anne Drivakos can assess your needs.

• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Empowering you with a clear understanding of your condition, its causes, and practical tools for effective self-management and lasting relief.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A thorough evaluation by your Physiotherapist to accurately diagnose movement dysfunctions, injuries, and the underlying sources of your pain.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Detailed analysis of your static and dynamic posture, with tailored exercises, stretches, and advice to help you improve alignment and reduce strain on your body.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Evaluation of your body's basic movements (like squatting, lunging, reaching) to highlight areas for improvement in stability, mobility, and motor control.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Targeted exercises focused on strengthening the deep abdominal, back, pelvic floor, and diaphragm muscles to provide better support for your spine, improve posture, enhance balance, and increase movement efficiency.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Personalized programs incorporating various stretching techniques (e.g., static, dynamic, PNF) to alleviate stiffness, increase tissue extensibility, and promote better posture.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Heather Anne Drivakos, 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 William Osler Health System, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Heather Anne Drivakos frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Struggling with the frustration of post-operative stiffness and weakness that's slowing down my recovery? Heather Anne Drivakos develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving improved breathing mechanics and capacity through postural correction. This is key to helping you get back to doing attending their favorite yoga and pilates classes without limitation with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• Patients struggling with soreness and tightness in my Achilles tendon, especially after exercise can find dedicated and compassionate support from Heather Anne Drivakos. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving enjoying family vacations and outings with more energy and less pain, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as comfortably cooking and meal prepping for their family.
• With Heather Anne Drivakos's help, managing that burning pain between my shoulder blades from too much computer work to achieve developing better body awareness and understanding of healthy movement patterns becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like going on enjoyable fishing or camping trips again.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Heather Anne Drivakos can help you move beyond trouble with a constantly stiff and sore neck, making turning my head a pain. The focus is on improved hand and wrist function for tasks requiring dexterity, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as competing effectively in their curling league games.

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

Heather Anne Drivakos practices at William Osler Health System, situated in a physiotherapy clinic in the central Etobicoke neighborhood of Etobicoke. The clinic is conveniently located near nearby parks and community recreation facilities and is accessible via local public transit routes. Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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.

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

Some temporary post-treatment soreness can be normal, much like after a good workout. However, if your pain significantly worsens, if you develop new concerning symptoms, or if the discomfort doesn't settle down within a day or two, please call us. Your Physiotherapist would want to know so they can offer guidance and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan. Open communication is key to your successful recovery.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes, absolutely! Physiotherapy plays a significant role in injury prevention and managing recurring pain. Your Physiotherapist can identify underlying risk factors such as muscle imbalances, poor movement patterns, postural issues, or biomechanical inefficiencies. By addressing these through targeted exercises, education on proper body mechanics, ergonomic advice, and activity modification, physiotherapy can help reduce your risk of initial injury, prevent re-injury, and manage chronic conditions more effectively, keeping you active and healthy.

Is there parking available at or near William Osler Health System?

Paid parking is available in the parkade adjacent to the building. Limited free street parking may also be found in the vicinity, but please check local signage for restrictions.

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. Check your private insurance for private clinic coverage and verify your specific eligibility for any public coverage directly with the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

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. However, some private/extended health insurance plans require a referral for reimbursement. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

What are William Osler Health System's operating hours?

Our clinic is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Hours can vary, so please call the office or check our website for the most current hours and availability.

William Osler Health System
101 Humber College Blvd.
Etobicoke, ON, M9V 1R8

Phone: (416) 494-2120

Heather Anne Drivakos 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: XXX15

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=ca654ea2-8d02-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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