Heather Anne Whitesell – Physiotherapist | London, ON

Heather Anne Whitesell is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Pediatric Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at London Health Sciences Centre-Victoria Campus in London, ON, Heather is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Heather's focus is providing specialized physiotherapy services for infants, children, and adolescents to address developmental delays, congenital conditions (like torticollis), orthopedic injuries, neurological conditions, and promote optimal motor function and participation.

Heather Anne Whitesell completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Western University (Graduating Class of 1998). With extensive clinical experience, Heather is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Heather has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Pediatric Physiotherapy.

Heather's practice philosophy centers around promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the London community through proactive physiotherapy. Heather has a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care, and employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Heather Anne Whitesell offers consultations in English.

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

Sports Injury

• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee / Anterior Knee Pain): Dull, aching pain in the front of the knee, often related to issues with the alignment and movement of the patella within the femoral groove.
• Stress Fractures (Activity-Related - Conservative Management/Rehab): An overuse injury where the bone is unable to withstand repetitive mechanical loading, requiring a period of offloading and gradual rehabilitation guided by a physiotherapist for safe return to activity.

Developmental

• Coordination Challenges / Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) - Supportive Physiotherapy: Marked difficulties with motor coordination that significantly interfere with a child's ability to perform daily living activities (e.g., dressing, using cutlery), achieve academically (e.g., handwriting), or participate in play and sports. These difficulties are not explained by intellectual disability or other primary neurological or sensory conditions.

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 can assess your needs.

• Postural Assessment and Correction: Education on optimal body mechanics and corrective strategies to improve your posture during daily activities, work, and recreation.
• 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.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Educating you about your diagnosis, expected recovery timeline (prognosis), and the reasons behind your treatment plan to encourage active participation in your healing.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: An in-depth examination to fully understand your specific condition, allowing your Physiotherapist to create an effective and personalized rehabilitation plan.
• Gait Analysis & Running/Walking Re-training: Evaluation of how you walk or run, with tailored advice from your Physiotherapist on footwear, technique modifications, and exercises to improve your form and prevent injury.
• Sports Injury Rehabilitation & Management: Specialized and progressive physiotherapy care for athletes of all levels, focusing on accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, sport-specific exercise, and safe, timely return-to-sport protocols.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Heather, 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 London Health Sciences Centre-Victoria Campus, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Heather frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• For those whose shoulder pain that makes simple things like lifting my arm or reaching overhead difficult has made tackling home renovation and DIY projects with confidence seem like a distant memory, Heather's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward enhanced recovery from post-surgical procedures with fewer complications. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to tackling home renovation and DIY projects with confidence with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• Living with tendonitis pain flaring up in my shoulder, knee, elbow, or foot doesn't have to be your norm. Heather applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards being active again without the constant worry of pain or re-injury, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of getting on and off the floor with ease.
• It's truly rewarding for Heather to witness patients conquer knee pain, especially when going up/down stairs or after a run and experience improved circulation and tissue healing. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in attending their favorite yoga and pilates classes without limitation again.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Heather's clinic, common concerns like feeling unsteady on my feet or experiencing dizziness and balance problems are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of successfully integrating safe movement strategies into their daily routines. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like performing self-care tasks like hair washing or reaching their back.

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

Heather practices at the London Health Sciences Centre-Victoria Campus, situated in the Woodfield, Wortley Village neighborhood of London. The clinic is conveniently located near Victoria Park and is accessible via the London Transit Commission (LTC). Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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. We recommend you contact your insurance provider directly before your first appointment to understand the specifics of your plan. Key things to check are: your annual maximum for physiotherapy, any per-visit limits or co-payments, whether a doctor's referral is required for reimbursement, and if your plan allows for direct billing by the clinic. If our clinic offers direct billing and your plan allows it, we can often bill your insurer directly for the covered portion. You would then be responsible for any co-payment or remaining balance not covered by your plan at the time of service. Please bring your insurance card and all necessary policy details to your first appointment. If direct billing is not possible, we will provide you with an official receipt that you can submit to your insurer.

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

Comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement is best for your physiotherapy appointment – think about what you might wear to a gym or for light exercise. If you're being treated for a lower-body issue (like hip or knee pain), shorts are very helpful. For upper-body issues (like shoulder or neck pain), a tank top or loose t-shirt is suitable so the Physiotherapist can properly examine and treat the area.

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. We strongly advise checking your private insurance for private clinic coverage.

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.

Is there parking available at or near London Health Sciences Centre-Victoria Campus?

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.

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.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

While some physiotherapy techniques might feel uncomfortable or cause temporary soreness, it should not be excessively painful. Your Physiotherapist will discuss what to expect and adjust techniques to ensure your comfort.

London Health Sciences Centre-Victoria Campus
800 Commissioners Road
London, ON, N6C 2R6

Phone: (519) 685-8500

Heather Anne Whitesell 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: XXX83

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=d37db71e-8c02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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