Katherine V.C. Hillen – Physiotherapist | Kingston, ON

Katherine V.C. Hillen is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at Providence Care Hospital in Kingston, ON, Katherine is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Katherine'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. Katherine serves adults.

Katherine V.C. Hillen completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 1991). With extensive clinical experience, Katherine is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Katherine has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Neurological Physiotherapy.

Katherine's practice philosophy centers around a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting; and empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Katherine offers consultations in English.

Katherine V.C. Hillen provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Peripheral Nerve

• Nerve Entrapments / Compressions (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Sciatica, Meralgia Paresthetica): Addressing conditions affecting nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, aiming to relieve pressure on the nerve, reduce inflammation, restore normal nerve function, and alleviate symptoms.
• Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic, Chemotherapy-Induced, Idiopathic): Physiotherapy focuses on improving balance, strength, sensation (where possible), reducing fall risk, managing pain, and providing education on foot care (especially for diabetic neuropathy) and adaptive strategies.

Vestibular Balance

• General Balance Deficits and Increased Fall Risk: Physiotherapy aimed at improving your balance, coordination, lower limb strength, reaction time, and confidence to reduce your risk of falling and enhance safe mobility in your home and community.
• Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD / 3PD): Addressing chronic subjective dizziness and unsteadiness through targeted rehabilitation designed to reduce symptoms and improve functional abilities for individuals with PPPD/3PD.
• Vestibular Hypofunction (Unilateral or Bilateral): Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for inner ear balance problems, involving customized exercises that promote central nervous system compensation and adaptation to the weakened vestibular input.

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. Katherine can assess your needs.

• 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.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Gentle, specific movements and mobilizations designed to address nerve-related pain (like sciatica or carpal tunnel symptoms), tingling, numbness, or restrictions by improving the nerve's ability to glide freely and reducing irritation.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A complete assessment of your musculoskeletal system to pinpoint issues, set clear rehabilitation goals, and get you started on the path to recovery.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Educating you about your diagnosis, expected recovery timeline (prognosis), and the reasons behind your treatment plan to encourage active participation in your healing.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Using controlled isometric and isotonic muscle contractions, as directed by your Physiotherapist, to address joint restrictions and muscle imbalances effectively.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Hands-on treatment focusing on your body's soft tissues to restore pliability, reduce discomfort, and optimize movement quality.

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

• Struggling with the frustration of soreness and tightness in my Achilles tendon, especially after exercise? Katherine develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving improved breathing mechanics and capacity through postural correction. This is key to helping you get back to doing being able to kneel or squat down to play with pets or children with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• Living with general muscle strains and pulls from overdoing it at the gym or in the garden doesn't have to be your norm. Katherine applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards improved performance in work-related physical demands, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of returning to dancing, whether it's ballet, salsa, or just for fun.
• Don't let an old ankle sprain that never seems to fully heal and still feels weak dictate what you can and cannot do. Katherine offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at improved joint health and a slowing of degenerative processes through better biomechanics, helping you reclaim performing tasks requiring fine motor skills and dexterity with ease and enjoy a more functional life.
• If swelling in my arm or leg, possibly lymphedema, after surgery or treatment is preventing you from fully enjoying participating in water aerobics or other pool-based exercises, Katherine offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining improved coordination for complex movements and fine motor tasks, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.

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

Katherine practices at Providence Care Hospital, situated in the Downtown Kingston, Queen's University Area, Sydenham Ward neighborhood of Kingston. The clinic is conveniently located near Market Square and is accessible via Kingston Transit. Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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. Always check your private/extended health insurance plans, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes, absolutely! Physiotherapy plays a significant role in injury prevention and managing recurring pain. Your Physiotherapist can identify underlying risk factors such as muscle imbalances, poor movement patterns, postural issues, or biomechanical inefficiencies. By addressing these through targeted exercises, education on proper body mechanics, ergonomic advice, and activity modification, physiotherapy can help reduce your risk of initial injury, prevent re-injury, and manage chronic conditions more effectively, keeping you active and healthy.

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.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your first appointment (assessment and treatment plan) usually takes about 60 minutes. Follow-up appointments are typically 30 to 45 minutes long, depending on your treatment needs.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

Your first visit will include a detailed discussion of your symptoms, medical history, and goals. A physical assessment will help determine the cause of your problem. Your therapist will then explain their findings, create a treatment plan with you, and likely begin some initial treatment.

Providence Care Hospital
752 King Street West
Kingston, ON, K7L 4X3

Phone: (613) 544-4900

Katherine V.C. Hillen 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: XXX03

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=25406fd2-8a02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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