Kerrie Dirven – Physiotherapist | London, ON

Kerrie Dirven is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Fowler Kennedy Sport Medicine Clinic in London, ON, Kerrie Dirven is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Kerrie Dirven's focus is 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. Kerrie Dirven serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Kerrie Dirven completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Western University (Graduating Class of 2021). With clinical experience, Kerrie Dirven is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Kerrie Dirven has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Kerrie Dirven's practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the London community through proactive physiotherapy; empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Kerrie Dirven offers consultations in English.

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

Back Neck Pain

• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Back or neck pain that often radiates into an arm or leg, potentially with numbness, tingling, weakness, or burning sensations, due to a spinal disc problem (herniation, protrusion, or bulge) compressing or irritating a nearby nerve root (radiculopathy). Sciatica specifically refers to radicular pain down the leg.
• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): A range of neck and related symptoms including pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and sometimes arm pain or cognitive difficulties, following a rapid acceleration-deceleration injury to the neck, most typically from a motor vehicle accident.

Post Surgical

• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: Comprehensive physiotherapy for knee ligament injuries post-operatively, focusing on restoring full knee function, power, and agility to meet your specific athletic or lifestyle demands.
• Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): A tailored physiotherapy program following hip joint replacement to optimize your recovery, manage pain, ensure adherence to any precautions, and facilitate a return to an active lifestyle.
• Post-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): Specialized physiotherapy after knee joint replacement surgery to help you regain independence, optimize your surgical outcome, and return to desired daily activities and hobbies.

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. Kerrie Dirven can assess your needs.

• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: A specialized physiotherapy treatment that uses a traction table or manual techniques to gently decompress spinal structures, relieve pressure, and promote healing.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): The application of cold packs, ice massage, or other cold modalities by your Physiotherapist to reduce swelling, inflammation, muscle spasm, and acute pain, particularly after an injury.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: The application of high-frequency sound waves by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to promote deep tissue heating, increase local blood flow, reduce pain, and facilitate the healing process in soft tissues like muscles, tendons, or ligaments.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: Utilizing therapeutic laser to enhance tissue regeneration, reduce pain signals, and manage inflammation as part of your comprehensive physiotherapy care.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Hands-on treatment focusing on your body's soft tissues to restore pliability, reduce discomfort, and optimize movement quality.
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): A non-invasive, evidence-based treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing, reduce pain, and promote tissue regeneration in stubborn soft tissue conditions that haven't responded to other therapies.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Kerrie Dirven, 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 Fowler Kennedy Sport Medicine Clinic, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Kerrie Dirven frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Don't let a 'frozen shoulder' feeling, where my shoulder feels completely stuck dictate what you can and cannot do. Kerrie Dirven offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at getting back to hiking, running, or cycling pain-free and with renewed vigor, helping you reclaim returning to dancing, whether it's ballet, salsa, or just for fun and enjoy a more functional life.
• Many find that persistent dizziness that isn't a spinning vertigo but makes me feel unsteady significantly impacts their ability to competing effectively in their curling league games. Kerrie Dirven helps patients target a noticeable improvement in their gait and walking efficiency with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• If pain in my shins when I try to run or be active (shin splints) is preventing you from fully enjoying attending their favorite yoga and pilates classes without limitation, Kerrie Dirven offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining greater ease in performing overhead activities or reaching, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• With Kerrie Dirven's help, managing a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns) to achieve a smooth and confident transition back to their work duties becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like painting or drawing for longer stretches without neck or shoulder ache.

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

Kerrie Dirven's practice is located at the Fowler Kennedy Sport Medicine Clinic, situated in the Carling, Boullee neighborhood of London. The clinic is conveniently located near the Westmount Area and is accessible via the London Transit Commission (LTC). Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

Does Fowler Kennedy Sport Medicine Clinic offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, Fowler Kennedy Sport Medicine Clinic offers direct billing for most major private insurance companies such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, Blue Cross, etc. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. Always confirm your specific coverage details, including any annual maximums, per-visit limits, or deductible requirements, directly with your insurance provider, as plans vary significantly. You are responsible for any portion not covered by your insurance.

Is there parking available at or near Fowler Kennedy Sport Medicine Clinic?

Ample free patient parking is available directly in front of and beside the building. Look for the designated patient spots. Please check all signage for time limits or restrictions.

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.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

The first physiotherapy session is primarily an in-depth assessment. Expect to spend time talking with your Physiotherapist about your specific issue, its history, and your overall health background. Your therapist will then perform various physical tests to assess your movement, strength, and any areas of concern. The main goal of this first visit is to understand your condition fully so that a tailored and effective treatment plan can be developed collaboratively with you. You might also receive your first set of home exercises or some initial hands-on care to start the healing process.

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

No, you do not need a doctor's referral to see a Physiotherapist in Ontario. This is known as direct access. However, some private/extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement of physiotherapy services. It is strongly recommended that you check the specific requirements of your individual 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 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 coverage for services in private clinics.

Fowler Kennedy Sport Medicine Clinic
1001 Fanshawe College Blvd.
London, ON, N5Y 5R6

Phone: (519) 452-4230

Kerrie Dirven 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: XXX91

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=7cdb85ef-6e20-ec11-b6e6-0022486d8531

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