Kirsten Hope Drew – Physiotherapist | Cambridge, ON

Kirsten Hope Drew is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Cambridge Memorial Hospital in Cambridge, ON, Kirsten Drew is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Kirsten Drew'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. Kirsten Drew serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Kirsten Hope Drew completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of British Columbia (Graduating Class of 1995). With extensive clinical experience, Kirsten Drew is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Kirsten Drew has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Kirsten Drew's practice philosophy centers on a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Kirsten Drew employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Kirsten Drew offers consultations in English.

Kirsten Hope Drew provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Conservative physiotherapy management for trigger digit, which may include splinting to rest the tendon, specific tendon gliding exercises, activity modification advice, modalities to reduce inflammation, and education to prevent recurrence.
• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Specialized physiotherapy for conditions affecting the intricate structures of the hand and wrist, such as fractures (e.g., Colles', scaphoid), tendon lacerations or ruptures (e.g., flexor/extensor tendon repairs), ligament sprains/tears (e.g., skier's thumb, TFCC injuries), repetitive strain injuries, or arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis). Includes both conservative management and post-operative rehabilitation.

Post Surgical

• Post-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): The crucial rehabilitation phase following total or partial knee replacement surgery, with physiotherapy focusing on restoring range of motion, building strength, improving balance, managing pain and swelling, and enabling functional mobility (e.g., walking, stairs, getting in/out of a car).
• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: Specialized physiotherapy following knee ligament reconstruction surgery to ensure a successful recovery, minimize complications (like stiffness or muscle atrophy), and facilitate a safe and confident return to activity and sport, preventing re-injury.

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. Kirsten Drew can assess your needs.

• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Guided stretching routines and flexibility exercises prescribed by your Physiotherapist, aimed at improving your range of motion, reducing muscle tightness or stiffness, and enhancing overall movement quality.
• 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.
• 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.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Evaluation of your body's basic movements (like squatting, lunging, reaching) to highlight areas for improvement in stability, mobility, and motor control.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Targeted exercises focused on strengthening the deep abdominal, back, pelvic floor, and diaphragm muscles to provide better support for your spine, improve posture, enhance balance, and increase movement efficiency.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Developing muscular strength and endurance to aid in injury recovery, support affected joints, improve biomechanics, and enhance athletic performance or demanding physical tasks.

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

• For those whose trouble performing repetitive tasks at work without pain has made standing for longer periods, for example, while cooking or at an event seem like a distant memory, Kirsten Drew's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward enjoying cycling or swimming regularly without pain or limitation. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to standing for longer periods, for example, while cooking or at an event with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• Don't let needing help to get moving again after a long period of illness or inactivity dictate what you can and cannot do. Kirsten Drew offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at improved breathing mechanics and capacity through postural correction, helping you reclaim going on enjoyable fishing or camping trips again and enjoy a more functional life.
• Are you finding that wrist pain and tingling, possibly from carpal tunnel syndrome, especially at night stops you from enjoying actively participating in family outings and vacations without holding others back? Kirsten Drew is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve a noticeable reduction in daily discomfort, making everyday tasks easier and more enjoyable through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.
• The journey to experiencing significant pain relief, allowing for a more comfortable daily life when faced with persistent facial weakness or drooping on one side (like Bell's Palsy) is made smoother and more effective with Kirsten Drew's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like simply being able to get through a workday without constant pain interruptions.

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

Kirsten Drew practices at Cambridge Memorial Hospital, situated in the Preston Centre, Preston Heights neighborhood of Cambridge. The clinic is conveniently located near Cambridge Centre Mall and is accessible via Grand River Transit (GRT). Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

What are Cambridge Memorial Hospital's operating hours?

Cambridge Memorial Hospital is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and some practitioners offer Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. However, hours can vary by practitioner and day, so please call the hospital or check their website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at Cambridge Memorial Hospital treat?

Our Physiotherapists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes, but is not limited to, issues like back and neck pain, joint problems (such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery), sports injuries, and nerve pain. We also have therapists with specialized skills in areas like Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and general physiotherapy. Our treatments often involve manual therapy, exercise prescription, and patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Initial assessment appointments are generally longer to allow for a thorough evaluation and discussion, typically lasting between 45 to 60 minutes. Subsequent follow-up treatment sessions are usually shorter, often ranging from 30 to 45 minutes. However, the duration can vary depending on your specific needs, the complexity of your condition, the type of treatment being provided, and the treatment plan designed by your Physiotherapist.

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 plan, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy refers to specialized hands-on techniques used by a Physiotherapist to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. This can include joint mobilization (gentle, rhythmic gliding movements), joint manipulation (skilled, high-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts, where appropriate and within the therapist's scope and with your consent), various soft tissue mobilization techniques (like massage, myofascial release, trigger point release), and neural mobilization (gentle techniques to improve nerve movement). The primary goals are to reduce pain, improve range of motion, restore optimal joint mechanics, reduce muscle tension, and enhance tissue repair and function.

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.

Does Cambridge Memorial Hospital offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Please contact Cambridge Memorial Hospital directly to inquire about their direct billing policies.

Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?

Bring your health card, any doctor's referral letter (if applicable), imaging test results, medication list, and extended health benefits information. Wear comfortable clothing.

Cambridge Memorial Hospital
700 Coronation Blvd.
Cambridge, ON, N1R 3G2

Phone: (519) 621-2330

Kirsten Hope Drew 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: XXX97

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=c1a8c8e8-8b02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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