Kevin Wood – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Kevin Wood is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto, ON, Kevin Wood is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Kevin Wood specializes in managing acute and chronic conditions affecting the heart and lungs, such as COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, post-operative cardiac or respiratory recovery, and post-COVID symptoms. Kevin Wood's approach involves breathing exercises, airway clearance techniques, exercise prescription, and patient education, serving adult patients.

Kevin Wood completed their degree in Physiotherapy from the University of Toronto (Graduating Class of 2018). With extensive clinical experience, Kevin Wood is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Kevin Wood has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy.

Kevin Wood employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Kevin Wood maintains a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best possible care. Kevin Wood adopts a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Kevin Wood offers consultations in English.

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

Long Covid

• Post-COVID-19 Condition / Long COVID Symptom Management: Physiotherapy support to help individuals recover from the long-term physical and functional impact of COVID-19, improve their daily function, energy levels, and overall quality of life through a personalized and cautious approach.

Post Surgical

• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): A progressive rehabilitation program after surgery to fix a broken bone, helping you regain full use of your arm or leg and return to your normal activities.
• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): Specialized physiotherapy focused on regaining shoulder movement, strength, stability, and function after various types of shoulder surgeries, such as rotator cuff repair, labral tear repair, shoulder stabilization procedures (e.g., Bankart repair), or shoulder joint replacement (arthroplasty).

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. Kevin Wood can assess your needs.

• 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.
• 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.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Skilled hands-on techniques, including gentle joint mobilizations (smooth, rhythmic movements) and, where appropriate and authorized, joint manipulations (quick, precise thrusts) to restore optimal movement, reduce pain, and improve joint function.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): A systematic screening process, such as FMS™ or SFMA™ (if your Physiotherapist is certified), to understand how you move and guide preventative or corrective exercise programs.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Education on optimal body mechanics and corrective strategies to improve your posture during daily activities, work, and recreation.

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

• With Kevin Wood's help, managing feeling 'off-balance' and worried about falling, especially as I get older to achieve waking up feeling more refreshed with considerably less pain and stiffness becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like feeling energetic enough to engage in social activities in the evenings.
• Don't let managing stiffness, tremors, and movement challenges with Parkinson's disease dictate what you can and cannot do. Kevin Wood offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at a noticeable reduction in daily discomfort, making everyday tasks easier and more enjoyable, helping you reclaim walking their children to school or the park and enjoy a more functional life.
• At Kevin Wood's physiotherapy practice, individuals with recovering my strength and energy after being very sick (like with pneumonia or Long COVID) are guided towards feeling less fatigued during physical activities and throughout the day. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as painting or drawing for longer stretches without neck or shoulder ache.
• The journey to being active again without the constant worry of pain or re-injury when faced with persistent recovering my strength and mobility after a knee or hip replacement surgery is made smoother and more effective with Kevin Wood's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like spending hours gardening comfortably, without subsequent back or knee strain.

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

Kevin Wood practices at St. Michael's Hospital, located in the Garden District, Ryerson neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Kensington Market and is accessible via the TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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 St. Michael's Hospital offers direct billing and your plan allows it, we 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, we will provide you with an official receipt that you can submit to your insurer.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

Physiotherapy should not be an ordeal of pain. While you might feel some discomfort or a stretching sensation as you work to regain movement or strength, especially in the initial stages of treatment for an acute injury or chronic stiffness, it's rarely 'painful' in a distressing or harmful way. Your Physiotherapist will guide you through each step, modify treatments to suit your comfort and tolerance, and ensure that the overall experience is positive. The ultimate aim is to make you feel better, not worse.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, in almost all cases, you will receive a customized home exercise program. These exercises are carefully chosen by your Physiotherapist to specifically target your issues and help you achieve your functional goals faster and more effectively. Performing them as recommended is very important for your progress and for maintaining the improvements you make during your clinic visits.

What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows the Physiotherapist to easily access and assess the area being treated, and permits you to move freely for any exercises or movements. For example, shorts are ideal for knee, hip, or ankle issues, while a tank top or loose t-shirt works well for shoulder, neck, or upper back problems. Athletic wear or gym attire is generally a good choice. You may also be provided with a gown if needed.

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. We strongly advise checking your private insurance for coverage of services in private clinics.

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 St. Michael's Hospital or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

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.

What are St. Michael's Hospital's operating hours?

St. Michael's Hospital is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Hours can vary, so please call the office or check their website for the most current hours and availability.

St. Michael's Hospital
30 Bond Street
Toronto, ON, M5B 1W8

Phone: (416) 864-5180

Kevin Wood 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: XXX92

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=3274a299-94b6-e811-8178-480fcff40721

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