Kathleen E. Norman – Physiotherapist | Kingston, ON

Kathleen E. Norman is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Queen's University-School of Rehabilitation Therapy in Kingston, ON, Kathleen Norman is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Kathleen Norman 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. Kathleen Norman serves a diverse range of patients, from athletes recovering from sports injuries to individuals experiencing chronic pain.

Kathleen E. Norman completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Queen's University (Graduating Class of 1987). With extensive clinical experience, Kathleen Norman is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Kathleen Norman has a particular interest and further training in areas such as General Physiotherapy Practice and general physiotherapy.

Kathleen Norman's practice philosophy centers on empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Kathleen Norman adopts a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Kathleen Norman works collaboratively with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Kathleen Norman offers consultations in English, French.

Kathleen E. Norman provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Sports Injury

• Ligament Sprains (e.g., ACL, MCL, PCL, Ankle Ligaments): Injuries like a 'twisted ankle', 'knee ligament injury', or 'shoulder separation' (AC joint sprain) sustained during athletic activity or accidental falls.
• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee / Anterior Knee Pain): Knee discomfort frequently experienced by runners, cyclists, and those involved in activities with repetitive knee bending, which physiotherapy can effectively manage through exercise and biomechanical correction.

Joint Pain

• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Persistent tendon pain that can interfere with your sports, work, or daily activities, often requiring specific loading programs and advice from a physiotherapist for effective management.
• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Commonly known as 'wear-and-tear' arthritis, this condition affects various joints, often worsening with age, overuse, or previous injury, and can significantly impact daily function.

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.
• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Pain affecting the hip joint and surrounding musculature, which can limit activities like walking, standing for long periods, rising from a chair, or lying on the affected side.
• 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.
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Pain, weakness, or restricted movement in the shoulder joint, often experienced with overhead activities, lifting, reaching behind your back, or sleeping on the affected side.

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. Kathleen Norman can assess your needs.

• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Cold therapy techniques applied by your therapist to effectively alleviate acute pain, reduce inflammation, and manage muscle soreness or spasm.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: A comforting physiotherapy modality that helps to soothe tight muscles, decrease pain perception, and improve the flexibility of soft tissues.
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): Targeted shockwave application to promote tissue regeneration, modulate pain, and improve function in chronic injuries, often with lasting results.
• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: Therapeutic traction for the cervical (neck) or lumbar (low back) spine, used by physiotherapists to help reduce pain, decompress nerve roots, and improve symptoms associated with conditions like disc herniations, sciatica, or spinal stenosis.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: LLLT or 'cold laser' therapy to stimulate your body's natural healing processes, provide pain relief, and improve function in conditions like tendinopathies, arthritis, or soft tissue injuries.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: A non-invasive electrotherapy modality aimed at reducing pain, muscle guarding, or swelling, and sometimes used for muscle strengthening, as part of your physiotherapy treatment.

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

• At Kathleen Norman's physiotherapy practice, individuals with feeling like my posture is hunched or rounded, causing discomfort are guided towards a better understanding of ergonomics for their work and home environment. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as maintaining an upright posture while working on their computer for hours.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Kathleen Norman's clinic, common concerns like a 'frozen shoulder' feeling, where my shoulder feels completely stuck are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of feeling equipped with effective self-management strategies and exercises. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like playing fetch with their dog in the park for an extended time.
• Are you finding that recurrent dislocations or a feeling of instability in my shoulder or knee stops you from enjoying taking long photography walks to capture nature or cityscapes? Kathleen Norman is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve feeling more resilient and less vulnerable to minor strains or injuries through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.
• Struggling with the frustration of that persistent ache in my lower back that just won't quit? Kathleen Norman develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving a smooth and confident transition back to their work duties. This is key to helping you get back to doing playing their musical instrument (guitar, piano, violin, etc.) for extended periods with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.

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

Kathleen Norman's practice is located at Queen's University-School of Rehabilitation Therapy in the Downtown Kingston, Queen's University Area, Sydenham Ward neighborhood of Kingston. The clinic enjoys a convenient location near Downtown Kingston and is easily accessible via Kingston Transit. Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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

In Ontario, you typically do not need a doctor's referral to see a physiotherapist. This is known as direct access. However, while a referral isn't legally required for an appointment, some extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement of services. It is strongly recommended that you check with your insurance provider to understand their specific requirements before your first appointment.

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

It's not uncommon to experience some temporary soreness or a mild increase in symptoms after certain physiotherapy treatments, especially in the initial stages or if you're starting new exercises. This usually subsides within 24-48 hours. However, if you experience a significant or sharp increase in pain, new or worsening neurological symptoms (like numbness, tingling, or weakness), or if your soreness lasts longer than expected, it's important to contact Kathleen Norman or your Physiotherapist directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

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.

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

Many private health insurance plans offer full or partial coverage for registered physiotherapy services. We recommend you contact your insurance provider directly before your first appointment to understand the specifics of your plan. Key things to check are: your annual maximum for physiotherapy, any per-visit limits or co-payments, whether a doctor's referral is required for reimbursement, and if your plan allows for direct billing by the clinic. If the clinic offers direct billing and your plan allows it, they can often bill your insurer directly for the covered portion. You would then be responsible for any co-payment or remaining balance not covered by your plan at the time of service. Please bring your insurance card and all necessary policy details to your first appointment. If direct billing is not possible, the clinic will provide you with an official receipt that you can submit to your insurer.

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. It is strongly recommended that you check your private insurance coverage for physiotherapy services in private clinics.

How can I book an appointment at Queen's University-School of Rehabilitation Therapy?

You can book an appointment by contacting the clinic directly during business hours. Their friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable appointment time with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

Queen's University-School of Rehabilitation Therapy
31 George St., Louise D. Acton Bldg.
Kingston, ON, K7L 3N6

Kathleen E. Norman 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: XXX96

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=dc48392b-8a02-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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