Joshua Chan – Physiotherapist | Hamilton, ON

Joshua Chan is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at North Hamilton Community Health Centre in Hamilton, ON, Josh is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Josh specializes in managing acute and chronic conditions affecting the heart and lungs, such as COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, post-operative cardiac or respiratory recovery, and post-COVID symptoms. Josh's approach involves breathing exercises, airway clearance techniques, exercise prescription, and patient education, serving adult patients.

Joshua Chan completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Queen's University (Graduating Class of 2004). With extensive clinical experience, Josh is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Josh has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy.

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

Joshua Chan provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Cardioresp

• Post-Pneumonia / Respiratory Infection Recovery: Physiotherapy rehabilitation to help regain lung function, improve breathing efficiency, clear any residual lung secretions (mucus), build up endurance and strength, and manage persistent cough or breathlessness after a significant lung infection like pneumonia or severe bronchitis.
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Management (e.g., Chronic Bronchitis, Emphysema): Physiotherapy interventions for individuals with chronic bronchitis or emphysema, focusing on improving lung function, reducing breathlessness, and increasing ability to perform daily activities.
• Asthma Management (Exercise-Induced & General Support): A chronic inflammatory condition of the airways causing recurrent episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing, often triggered by allergens, irritants, cold air, or exercise (Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction - EIB).
• Bronchiectasis Management (Airway Clearance): A chronic lung condition where the airways (bronchi) become permanently widened and damaged, leading to mucus buildup, recurrent chest infections, chronic cough, and breathlessness. Physiotherapy focuses primarily on airway clearance techniques.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Common injuries related to physical activity, sports participation, accidental falls, or overuse from daily or work-related tasks.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Aching, soreness, or sharp pain experienced in the neck, which may include muscle spasms, trigger points, or reduced flexibility.

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. Josh can assess your needs.

• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: A variety of hands-on methods such as therapeutic massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and active release style techniques to reduce muscle tension, break down scar tissue, improve circulation, and enhance tissue flexibility.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Using controlled isometric and isotonic muscle contractions, as directed by your Physiotherapist, to address joint restrictions and muscle imbalances effectively.
• 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.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Customized exercise plans designed to help you recover from injury, manage chronic conditions, improve physical performance, and achieve your functional goals safely and effectively.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Specialized manual techniques aimed at restoring normal movement and function to peripheral nerves that may be compressed, adhered, or under tension.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Specialized workouts to enhance your core strength, stability, and endurance, which are crucial for injury prevention, back health, and efficient performance in daily activities and sports.

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

• If facial weakness or drooping on one side (like Bell's Palsy) is preventing you from fully enjoying engaging in volunteer work that might have physical demands, Josh 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.
• Josh believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If recovering from a concussion and dealing with lingering symptoms like dizziness or headaches is hindering your ability to shoveling snow or raking leaves without aggravating their back, a personalized plan focusing on a feeling of being 'unstuck' and more supple can make all the difference.
• Rediscover your ability to managing shopping trips and carrying bags without excessive fatigue or pain without the constant burden of loss of strength in one of my limbs after an injury. Josh focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to better joint stability during movement and weight-bearing activities, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
• Patients often come to Josh feeling defeated by a 'frozen shoulder' feeling, where my shoulder feels completely stuck. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving getting back to enjoying life's simple pleasures without physical limitations and resuming competing effectively in their curling league games becomes a realistic and attainable goal.

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

Josh practices at North Hamilton Community Health Centre, located in the Binbrook neighbourhood of Hamilton. The clinic enjoys a convenient location near Battlefield House Museum & Park National Historic Site (Stoney Creek) and is easily accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

What are North Hamilton Community Health Centre's operating hours?

North Hamilton Community Health Centre is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Some practitioners offer Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. However, hours can vary by practitioner and day, so please call the clinic at 555-1212 or check their website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

While some physiotherapy techniques might feel uncomfortable or cause a temporary increase in soreness (similar to muscle soreness after a new workout), especially when working on stiff joints or tight muscles, it should not be excessively or intolerably painful. Your Physiotherapist will discuss what sensations you might expect with different treatments and will always aim to adjust the intensity and techniques to ensure you are as comfortable as possible while still achieving therapeutic benefits. Constant communication about your comfort level is very important.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

It's difficult to say exactly how many sessions you'll need without a thorough assessment, as everyone's situation and recovery path is unique. Some acute conditions might resolve in just a few sessions, while more chronic, complex, or significant issues may require a longer period of care to achieve lasting results. Your Physiotherapist will provide an estimated treatment timeline and plan after your first visit, and this will be revisited as your treatment progresses.

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

Patients in Ontario 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.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial and integral component of most physiotherapy treatment plans. Your Physiotherapist will prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals. These exercises are designed to complement your in-clinic treatment, help you manage your symptoms effectively between sessions, accelerate your recovery, and empower you with tools for long-term self-management. Your active participation in your home program is key for optimal results.

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. Check your private insurance for private clinic coverage.

Does North Hamilton Community Health Centre offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

While we do not offer direct billing at this time, we provide detailed official receipts that you can easily submit to your insurer for reimbursement according to your plan. Bring your insurance card/information and confirm your coverage details with your provider. You are responsible for any portion not covered by your insurance.

North Hamilton Community Health Centre
438 Hughson N.
Hamilton, ON, L9L 4N5

Phone: (905) 523-6611

Joshua Chan 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: XXX22

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=5d8522de-8d02-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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