James Andrew Shaw – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

James Andrew Shaw is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at University of Toronto - Department of Physical Therapy in Toronto, ON, Jay is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Jay focuses on providing comprehensive assessment and treatment for a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal injuries, pain conditions, and movement dysfunctions to help patients of all ages restore function, manage pain, and improve their quality of life. Jay serves a diverse range of patients.

James Andrew Shaw completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Western University (Graduating Class of 2010). With clinical experience, James Andrew Shaw is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. James Andrew Shaw has a particular interest or further training in areas such as General Physiotherapy Practice and general physiotherapy.

Jay maintains a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. James Andrew Shaw offers consultations in English.

James Andrew Shaw provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

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.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: A 'pulled' muscle, often occurring during activities like sprinting, jumping, lifting, or sudden changes in direction, causing immediate pain and difficulty using the muscle.

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. Jay can assess your needs.

• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Employing different types of electrotherapy to support your rehabilitation goals, including promoting tissue healing or improving motor control.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Utilizing targeted electrical currents to help alleviate pain, manage discomfort, and support healing in conjunction with other physiotherapy interventions.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: Application of therapeutic heat to prepare tissues for exercise, manual therapy, or stretching, or to manage chronic muscle soreness and joint stiffness.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Using therapeutic ultrasound as an adjunct treatment to help reduce pain, decrease inflammation, break down scar tissue, and accelerate the repair of injured soft tissues.
• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: The application of gentle, controlled mechanical or manual force to distract (stretch) spinal segments, aiming to alleviate pressure on intervertebral discs, nerves, and facet joints.
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): Targeted shockwave application to promote tissue regeneration, modulate pain, and improve function in chronic injuries, often with lasting results.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Jay, 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 University of Toronto - Department of Physical Therapy, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Jay frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Tired of needing to improve my breathing patterns or lung capacity interfering with getting in and out of the car smoothly and without wincing? Jay uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve achieving personal fitness goals that once seemed out of reach and regain your freedom of movement.
• Jay frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of post-operative stiffness and weakness that's slowing down my recovery. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets enjoying family vacations and outings with more energy and less pain and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like participating fully in their martial arts practice, including sparring.
• Struggling with the frustration of feeling 'off-balance' and worried about falling, especially as I get older? Jay develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving better joint stability during movement and weight-bearing activities. This is key to helping you get back to doing driving for longer periods without neck or back pain with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• If recovering from surgery to my hand or wrist is preventing you from fully enjoying feeling energetic enough to engage in social activities in the evenings, Jay offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining a significant improvement in their overall quality of life and daily well-being, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.

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

Jay practices at University of Toronto - Department of Physical Therapy, situated in the Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Roy Thomson Hall and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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

In Ontario, you can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a doctor's referral. This is known as direct access. However, some private health insurance plans may require a referral for coverage. It is strongly recommended that you check with your insurance provider before your first appointment to confirm their specific requirements.

I have private health insurance. How does that work with physiotherapy payments?

Many private health insurance plans offer coverage for physiotherapy services. Before your first appointment, contact your insurance provider to understand your plan's specifics, including your annual maximum, per-visit limits, co-payments, referral requirements, and whether direct billing is available. If direct billing is an option and your plan allows it, we can often bill your insurer directly for the covered portion; you would be responsible for any remaining balance. Bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. If direct billing is not possible, we will provide a receipt for submission to your insurer.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Absolutely! Home exercises are crucial for rehabilitation. Your Physiotherapist will design a personalized program to reinforce in-clinic work, manage your condition, and help you progress towards your goals.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy helps people of all ages improve movement, function, and well-being. Registered Physiotherapists use evidence-based techniques (exercise, manual therapy, education) to assess, diagnose, and treat injuries, pain, and physical impairments. It can reduce pain, increase mobility and strength, aid recovery from surgery, prevent future injuries, and improve your quality of life.

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

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the area being treated and permits free movement. Shorts are ideal for lower body, while a tank top or loose t-shirt works well for upper body. Athletic wear is a good choice.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes! Physiotherapy can identify risk factors (muscle imbalances, poor movement patterns, etc.) and address them through targeted exercises, education, and ergonomic advice to reduce injury risk and manage chronic pain.

Is physiotherapy covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

OHIP generally does not cover physiotherapy services in private outpatient clinics. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available in specific situations (e.g., post-hospitalization) but eligibility criteria are strict. Check your private insurance for coverage.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

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

University of Toronto - Department of Physical Therapy
500 University Ave, Suite 160
Toronto, ON, M5G 1V7

Phone: (416) 946-8641

James Andrew Shaw 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: XXX81

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=23b3574f-9002-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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