Heather Patricia Imrie – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Heather Patricia Imrie is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Rebalance Sports Medicine in Toronto, ON, Heather Imrie is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Heather Imrie's focus is 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 Imrie serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Heather Patricia Imrie completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Western University (Graduating Class of 2009). With extensive clinical experience, Heather Imrie is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Heather Imrie has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Heather Imrie promotes preventative care and long-term wellness for the Toronto community through proactive physiotherapy. Heather Imrie employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Heather Imrie demonstrates a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Heather Imrie offers consultations in English.

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

Arthritis

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Physiotherapy as an important part of a multidisciplinary team approach to managing rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory joint conditions (e.g., ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis), helping to minimize disease impact and maximize quality of life.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): An inflammatory arthritis that can affect some people with psoriasis (a skin condition), causing joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and sometimes affecting tendons (enthesitis) and ligaments. Can affect small or large joints, often asymmetrically, and sometimes the spine.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Exercises and advice to manage the impact of gout on your joints, improve mobility, and reduce the likelihood of long-term joint damage.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Aching, sharp, or deep pain in the hip that may worsen with activity, specific movements, or even at rest.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Aching, soreness, or sharp pain experienced in the neck, which may include muscle spasms, trigger points, or reduced flexibility.
• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Knee problems that limit your ability to stay active, perform daily tasks, or enjoy your hobbies, for which physiotherapy offers effective solutions.
• 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.

Back Neck Pain

• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Symptoms like 'neurogenic claudication' – leg pain, cramping, or heaviness with walking or prolonged standing that typically eases with rest or bending forward (flexion).
• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Sharp, shooting, electric-like, or burning pain that travels along the path of a nerve due to issues with intervertebral discs or other spinal structures.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Pain and muscle tension related to ergonomic factors at work or home, muscle imbalances, and suboptimal body mechanics or movement habits.
• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Neck, shoulder, and upper back discomfort, often accompanied by headaches or 'brain fog', after a sudden jerking motion of the head, such as in a rear-end collision.

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 Imrie can assess your needs.

• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Application of skilled soft tissue techniques to manage pain, stiffness, and improve function in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: The use of moist heat packs, paraffin wax, or other heat sources by your Physiotherapist to relax muscles, increase local blood flow, reduce stiffness, alleviate chronic pain, and improve tissue extensibility.
• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: A specialized physiotherapy treatment that uses a traction table or manual techniques to gently decompress spinal structures, relieve pressure, and promote healing.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Application of various forms of electrical stimulation, such as Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) for muscle strengthening and re-education, or Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) to assist with movement, as prescribed by your Physiotherapist.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Targeted therapy to alleviate symptoms such as shooting pain, pins and needles, or weakness arising from neural tension or entrapment.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Application of precise, passive movements to joints to decrease stiffness, relieve pain, and facilitate easier, more comfortable movement.

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

• If feeling unsteady on my feet or experiencing dizziness and balance problems is preventing you from fully enjoying maintaining an upright posture while working on their computer for hours, Heather Imrie offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining feeling empowered to take control of their physical health journey, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• Living with knee pain, especially when going up/down stairs or after a run doesn't have to be your norm. Heather Imrie applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards successfully integrating safe movement strategies into their daily routines, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of participating fully in their martial arts practice, including sparring.
• Struggling with the frustration of recovering my strength and energy after being very sick (like with pneumonia or Long COVID)? Heather Imrie develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving improved joint health and a slowing of degenerative processes through better biomechanics. This is key to helping you get back to doing working at their desk all day without developing back or neck stiffness with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• Heather Imrie believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If an awkward gait or limping when I walk is hindering your ability to resuming their weightlifting routine at the gym safely, a personalized plan focusing on improved circulation and tissue healing can make all the difference.

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

Heather Imrie practices at Rebalance Sports Medicine, situated in the Richmond, Adelaide, King (Entertainment District) neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near the Distillery District and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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.

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 to check your private insurance for private clinic coverage.

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

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.

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.

What is Rebalance Sports Medicine's appointment cancellation policy?

We understand that schedules can change unexpectedly. To ensure we can accommodate all our patients efficiently, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer the time slot to other patients who may be waiting for care. A fee may be charged for late cancellations (less than 24 hours' notice) or missed appointments without sufficient notice. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your appointment.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

While some physiotherapy techniques might feel uncomfortable or cause a temporary increase in soreness, it should not be excessively or intolerably painful. Your Physiotherapist will discuss what sensations you might expect and will adjust the intensity to ensure you are comfortable while achieving therapeutic benefits. Communication about your comfort level is very important.

Rebalance Sports Medicine
155 University Avenue, #303
Toronto, ON, M5H 3B7

Phone: (416) 306-1111

Heather Patricia Imrie 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=64c1baf5-8f02-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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