Heather Elizabeth Roberts – Physiotherapist | London, ON

Heather Elizabeth Roberts is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Victoria Hospital, London Health Sciences Centre in London, ON, Heather Roberts is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Heather Roberts's practice focuses on 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 Roberts also focuses on the unique health needs of older adults, aiming to improve and maintain mobility, strength, balance, manage age-related conditions like arthritis or osteoporosis, reduce fall risk, and enhance overall quality of life and independence. Heather Roberts serves adults.

Heather Elizabeth Roberts completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Alberta (Graduating Class of 2004). With extensive clinical experience, Heather Roberts is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Heather Roberts has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and Geriatric Physiotherapy / Seniors' Health.

Heather Roberts employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting; promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the London community through proactive physiotherapy. Heather Roberts offers consultations in English.

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

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage and underlying bone, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility in affected joints like the knees, hips, spine, or hands.
• 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

• 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.
• 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.

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 Roberts can assess your needs.

• 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.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: A progressive approach to rebuilding your physical condition, allowing for a safe return to daily activities, work demands, and hobbies you enjoy.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Developing control, strength, and endurance in your core musculature for improved functional performance, pain reduction, and prevention of re-injury.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Specific stretches designed by your therapist to target tight muscle groups relevant to your condition, helping to improve your flexibility and reduce your risk of injury.
• Home-Based Physiotherapy Visits (Mobile Physio): In-home rehabilitation programs tailored to your living space and functional needs, helping you regain independence with daily activities, manage pain, and improve mobility where you live.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Customized strength training to address specific weaknesses identified in your assessment, helping to correct imbalances, improve movement efficiency, and achieve your physical objectives.

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

• Don't let working on getting back to normal after a fracture or other surgery dictate what you can and cannot do. Heather Roberts offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at being active again without the constant worry of pain or re-injury, helping you reclaim driving for longer periods without neck or back pain and enjoy a more functional life.
• It's truly rewarding for Heather Roberts to witness patients conquer pain or weakness that's stopping me from enjoying my favorite hobbies and experience feeling more like their 'old self' before their injury or condition began. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in taking energetic, long walks with their dog every day again.
• Patients often come to Heather Roberts feeling defeated by clicking, popping, or pain in my jaw (TMJ issues) when I eat or talk. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving a better understanding of ergonomics for their work and home environment and resuming giving presentations or speaking publicly with confidence and good posture becomes a realistic and attainable goal.
• Rediscover your ability to safely meeting the lifting requirements at their workplace without the constant burden of my baby/child having trouble with their motor skills, like delayed rolling, sitting or walking. Heather Roberts focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to enhanced recovery from post-surgical procedures with fewer complications, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.

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

Heather Roberts practices at Victoria Hospital, London Health Sciences Centre, situated in the Downtown London, North London East neighborhood of London. The clinic is conveniently located near various plazas north and south and is accessible via the London Transit Commission (LTC). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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

Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows the Physiotherapist to easily access and assess the area being treated, and permits you to move freely for any exercises or movements. For example, shorts are ideal for knee, hip, or ankle issues, while a tank top or loose t-shirt works well for shoulder, neck, or upper back problems. Athletic wear or gym attire is generally a good choice. You may also be provided with a gown if needed.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your first visit, the Physiotherapist will conduct a detailed evaluation to get a full picture of your condition. This usually involves a thorough discussion about your symptoms, how they impact your daily life, any relevant medical history, and your personal goals for therapy. A physical assessment will then be performed to help pinpoint the cause of your problem and assess your physical capabilities. Afterwards, your therapist will explain their findings, collaborate with you to set treatment goals, and outline a proposed plan of care. You'll likely receive some initial advice, exercises, or hands-on treatment to begin your recovery journey.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

The number of physiotherapy sessions required varies greatly from person to person. It depends on several factors, including the nature and severity of your condition, how long you've had the issue (acute vs. chronic), your individual treatment goals, your body's unique response to therapy, and how consistently you are able to follow your prescribed home exercise program and self-management advice. Your Physiotherapist will discuss a proposed treatment frequency and estimated duration after your initial assessment and will continually re-evaluate your progress with you.

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

In Ontario, you can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a physician's referral. This is known as direct access. However, some private/extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement of physiotherapy services. It is strongly advised that you check the specific requirements of your individual insurance policy before your first appointment.

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 that you check your private insurance for private clinic coverage and verify your specific eligibility for any public coverage directly with OHIP.

Does Victoria Hospital, London Health Sciences Centre offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Please contact the clinic directly to inquire about their direct billing policies with private insurance companies. It is recommended to bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment and confirm your specific coverage details, including any annual maximums, per-visit limits, or deductible requirements, directly with your insurance provider.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

The primary goal of physiotherapy is generally to reduce pain and improve function, not to cause significant or lasting pain. Some assessment techniques or specific treatments (like deep soft tissue work, joint mobilization, or certain exercises) might cause mild, temporary discomfort or soreness, especially if the tissues being treated are sensitive, inflamed, or very stiff. However, your Physiotherapist will always work within your tolerance levels, communicate clearly about what to expect, and encourage open feedback. If you experience notable or unacceptable pain during treatment, please inform your therapist immediately so adjustments can be made to ensure your comfort.

Victoria Hospital, London Health Sciences Centre
800 Commissioners Rd East, PO Box 5010
London, ON, N6A 5W9

Phone: (519) 685-8500

Heather Elizabeth Roberts 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: XXX73

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=30a43f16-8e02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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