Karen Wing-Ki Chiu – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Karen Wing-Ki Chiu is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, ON, Karen Chiu is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Karen Chiu focuses on 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. Karen Chiu serves infants, children, and adolescents.

Karen Wing-Ki Chiu completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Toronto (Graduating Class of 2018). With clinical experience, Karen Chiu is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Karen Chiu has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Karen Chiu employs a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals; empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Karen Chiu offers consultations in Cantonese, English.

Karen Wing-Ki Chiu provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Back Neck Pain

• 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.
• 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).
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: A common cause of persistent back and neck pain due to the cumulative strain of prolonged sitting, standing, or performing tasks in non-ideal positions.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Aching, sharp pain, a feeling of the knee 'giving way', or difficulty fully bending or straightening your knee.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Injuries to ankle ligaments, typically from twisting or 'rolling' motions, leading to pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Can result in recurrent sprains and chronic instability if not properly rehabilitated.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Lower back issues that restrict your ability to bend, lift, sit for long periods, or enjoy your usual activities without discomfort.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Damage to the body's movement system, including issues like joint inflammation, ligament tears, or muscle overstretching, often requiring physiotherapy for optimal recovery.

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. Karen Chiu can assess your needs.

• Postural Assessment and Correction: Education on optimal body mechanics and corrective strategies to improve your posture during daily activities, work, and recreation.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Customized strength training to address specific weaknesses identified in your assessment, helping to correct imbalances, improve movement efficiency, and achieve your physical objectives.
• 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.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Structured physical activities and exercises aimed at helping you safely regain strength, stamina, and confidence in your body's abilities, tailored to your current level.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Providing clear guidance on self-care techniques, activity modifications, and beneficial lifestyle adjustments for long-term well-being and injury prevention.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Assessing your fundamental movement patterns to identify limitations, asymmetries, and potential risk factors for injury or re-injury.

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

• Many patients have found lasting relief from persistent dizziness that isn't a spinning vertigo but makes me feel unsteady and achieved the ability to manage symptoms independently if they occasionally recur under the skilled care of Karen Chiu. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as returning to a specific physical hobby they had to give up due to pain with a new lease on life.
• Tired of feeling generally stiff, achy, and less mobile than I used to be interfering with getting back to cycling for leisure or commuting? Karen Chiu uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve noticeable strength gains in their limbs, supporting more demanding tasks and regain your freedom of movement.
• At Karen Chiu's physiotherapy practice, individuals with loss of strength in one of my limbs after an injury are guided towards a better ability to cope with the physical stresses of daily life. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as maintaining their balance and stability while walking on uneven ground or trails.
• The path to recovery from frequent headaches that seem to start from tension in my neck or shoulders and achieving a greater sense of body confidence and trust in their physical abilities for sleeping soundly through the night without being woken by pain or discomfort often starts with expert guidance. Karen Chiu, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.

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

Karen Chiu's practice at Hospital for Sick Children is located in the Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Cabbagetown and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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

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, for children/youth, seniors, or through Community Physiotherapy Clinics/Family Health Teams), but eligibility is strict. Check your private insurance for coverage.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Definitely. A Physiotherapist can assess your movement, identify potential weaknesses, and provide a personalized program to prevent future injuries and recurring pain.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

The goal is to reduce pain, not cause it. Some treatments might cause mild, temporary discomfort, but your Physiotherapist will work within your tolerance level. Report any significant pain immediately.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

This varies greatly depending on individual needs. Your Physiotherapist will give you a better estimate after your initial assessment and will adjust the plan as you progress.

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

Mild soreness is normal, but significant worsening or new symptoms require contacting your Physiotherapist immediately.

How can I book an appointment at Hospital for Sick Children?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (416) 813-6755 during our business hours. Our friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable appointment time.

Hospital for Sick Children
555 University Ave.
Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8

Phone: (416) 813-6755

Karen Wing-Ki Chiu 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: XXX45

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=5e375d27-07a3-e811-8173-480fcff40721

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