Justin Spencer Smith – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Justin Spencer Smith is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Resident Physiotherapist) (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at Balance Physiotherapy in Toronto, ON, Justin Smith is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Justin Smith's focus is assisting individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life after neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. Justin Smith serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Justin Spencer Smith completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Toronto (Graduating Class of 2024). With clinical experience, Justin Smith is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Justin Smith has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Neurological Physiotherapy.

Justin Smith employs a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Justin Smith has a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Justin Smith offers consultations in English.

Justin Spencer Smith provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Vestibular Balance

• Vestibular Hypofunction (Unilateral or Bilateral): Individualized exercise programs including gaze stabilization exercises (e.g., VORx1, VORx2), habituation exercises (for motion sensitivity), and balance retraining to improve function when the vestibular system is impaired.
• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Brief, often intense, episodes of dizziness or a spinning sensation (vertigo) triggered by specific changes in head position (e.g., rolling over in bed, looking up, bending down), caused by displaced inner ear crystals (otoconia).

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A chronic condition causing joint discomfort, stiffness (especially in the morning or after inactivity), and impacting your ability to perform daily activities, walk, or engage in hobbies.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Inflammation (tendinitis) or, more commonly, degeneration (tendinosis/tendinopathy) of tendons, leading to localized pain that typically worsens with activity or loading of the tendon.

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. Justin Smith can assess your needs.

• 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.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Hands-on physiotherapy focused on mobilizing restricted joints and soft tissues to promote healing, restore normal biomechanics, and alleviate pain.
• Tele-Rehabilitation / Virtual Physiotherapy Consultations: Effective virtual physiotherapy care to help you manage your condition, progress your rehabilitation, and receive professional advice when in-person visits are challenging or not preferred.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Using controlled isometric and isotonic muscle contractions, as directed by your Physiotherapist, to address joint restrictions and muscle imbalances effectively.
• 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.
• Balance Training & Falls Prevention Programs: Targeted exercises and strategies designed by your Physiotherapist to improve your stability, coordination, lower limb strength, and body awareness (proprioception), thereby reducing your risk of falls, particularly beneficial for older adults or individuals with balance impairments.

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

• Many patients have found lasting relief from an old ankle sprain that never seems to fully heal and still feels weak and achieved sleeping more soundly through the night due to reduced pain and discomfort under the skilled care of Justin Smith. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as engaging in detailed crafting, sewing, or knitting hobbies for hours with a new lease on life.
• Tired of difficulty with fine motor skills like buttoning shirts or writing due to hand pain interfering with returning to a specific physical hobby they had to give up due to pain? Justin Smith uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve the ability to sit for longer periods (e.g., at a desk, in a car) without significant discomfort and regain your freedom of movement.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Justin Smith can help you move beyond an awkward gait or limping when I walk. The focus is on improved ability to lift and carry objects correctly and safely, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as joining in on pickup basketball games at the local court.
• Struggling with the frustration of soreness and tightness in my Achilles tendon, especially after exercise? Justin Smith develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving learning specific exercises that provide ongoing relief and maintain their progress. This is key to helping you get back to doing challenging myself with indoor or outdoor rock climbing with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.

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

Justin Smith practices at Balance Physiotherapy, located in the Don Mills North neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near the CN Tower and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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.

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 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.

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 (direct access). However, some private/extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

How can I book an appointment at Balance Physiotherapy?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (416) 386-0384 during our business hours. Our friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable appointment time with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

What is Balance Physiotherapy'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 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.

Balance Physiotherapy
8-12 Upjohn Road
Toronto, ON, M3B 2V9

Phone: (416) 386-0384

Justin Spencer Smith 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: XXX44

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=8957516b-ff69-ef11-a670-002248b11322

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