Heather L. Mcintosh – Physiotherapist | Guelph, ON

Heather L. Mcintosh is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Guelph General Hospital in Guelph, ON, HEATHER MCINTOSH is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. HEATHER MCINTOSH addresses 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 MCINTOSH serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

HEATHER MCINTOSH completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Western University (Graduating Class of 2000). With extensive clinical experience, HEATHER MCINTOSH is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. HEATHER MCINTOSH has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

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

Heather L. Mcintosh provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Arthritis

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Helping you live well with rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory arthropathies through targeted physiotherapy interventions designed to manage symptoms, preserve function, and promote overall well-being.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Supportive physiotherapy care for joint recovery and function after gout flares, focusing on restoring range of motion, reducing inflammation, and providing advice on joint protection and lifestyle factors.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Physiotherapy for ankylosing spondylitis focuses on maintaining spinal mobility and flexibility (especially extension), improving posture, strengthening core and back muscles, managing pain, and providing education on self-management and regular exercise.

Joint Pain

• 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.
• 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.

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 MCINTOSH can assess your needs.

• 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.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Targeted manual methods performed by your Physiotherapist to release tight or overactive muscles, address fascial restrictions, and alleviate pain arising from soft tissue dysfunction.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Education and instruction on effective and safe stretching techniques to help you maintain or improve your body's flexibility and joint mobility.
• 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): Using controlled isometric and isotonic muscle contractions, as directed by your Physiotherapist, to address joint restrictions and muscle imbalances effectively.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: A carefully selected set of exercises specific to your condition and abilities, aimed at restoring function, reducing pain, improving movement, and preventing future issues.

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

• When managing stiffness, tremors, and movement challenges with Parkinson's disease is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing simply enjoying leisurely daily walks around their neighborhood for fresh air, physiotherapy with HEATHER MCINTOSH can help you work towards improved balance and coordination, leading to safer and more confident mobility in seniors. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• Tired of feeling 'off-balance' and worried about falling, especially as I get older interfering with dancing the night away at social events and family celebrations? HEATHER MCINTOSH uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve moving more freely and with greater agility than they have in years and regain your freedom of movement.
• Discover how physiotherapy with HEATHER MCINTOSH can help you move beyond that nagging tennis elbow (or golfer's elbow) that flares up with activity. The focus is on a greater sense of body confidence and trust in their physical abilities, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as getting in and out of the car smoothly and without wincing.
• At HEATHER MCINTOSH's physiotherapy practice, individuals with dealing with pelvic pain or bladder/bowel control issues (for both men and women) are guided towards a significantly reduced risk of falling, enhancing safety and independence. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as managing their personal care routines independently.

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

HEATHER MCINTOSH's practice is located at Guelph General Hospital, situated in the Grange Road Area, Victoria North neighborhood of Guelph. The clinic is conveniently located near the Commercial Corridor and is accessible via Guelph Transit. Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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 plan, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

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 there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?

To make your first appointment as smooth and productive as possible, please consider bringing: your health card, any doctor's referral letter (if applicable), results or reports of any imaging tests (X-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs) related to your current condition, a list of any medications you are currently taking, and your extended health benefits information (insurance card/policy number) for direct billing if available at our clinic. Wearing comfortable clothes is also a good idea.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy involves skilled, hands-on treatments performed by your Physiotherapist as part of your overall physiotherapy plan. These techniques are designed to assess and treat your joints, muscles, and nerves to decrease pain and improve your mobility and function. Examples include specific joint mobilizations to improve movement, soft tissue release techniques to address muscle tightness or scar tissue, and sometimes manipulations (adjustments) if indicated and appropriate for your condition and your therapist's qualifications.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

Physiotherapy should not be an ordeal of pain. While you might feel some discomfort or a stretching sensation as you work to regain movement or strength, especially in the initial stages of treatment for an acute injury or chronic stiffness, it's rarely 'painful' in a distressing or harmful way. Your Physiotherapist will guide you through each step, modify treatments to suit your comfort and tolerance, and ensure that the overall experience is positive. The ultimate aim is to make you feel better, not worse.

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 HEATHER MCINTOSH or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

Guelph General Hospital
115 Delhi St.
Guelph, ON, N1E 4J4

Phone: (519) 837-6440

Heather L. Mcintosh 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: XXX99

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=2ed73411-8d02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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