Kristen Dickhout – Physiotherapist | Hamilton, ON

Kristen Dickhout is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at Regional Rehabilitation Centre in Hamilton, ON, Kristen Dickhout is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Kristen Dickhout'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. Kristen Dickhout serves adults within the Hamilton community.

Kristen Dickhout completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 2018). With clinical experience, Kristen Dickhout is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Kristen Dickhout has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Neurological Physiotherapy.

Kristen Dickhout's practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Hamilton community through proactive physiotherapy; a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Kristen Dickhout offers consultations in English.

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

Vestibular Balance

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Effective, non-invasive treatment for positional dizziness and vertigo using specific head and body movements performed by a trained Vestibular Physiotherapist.
• 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.
• Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD / 3PD): A common cause of chronic dizziness that can be helped with specific physiotherapy strategies aimed at desensitizing the brain to provocative stimuli and normalizing reliance on sensory inputs.
• General Balance Deficits and Increased Fall Risk: Difficulty maintaining stability during standing, walking, or changing positions, which may be due to various factors including age-related changes, neurological conditions, musculoskeletal weakness, sensory impairments, or medication side effects, often leading to an increased risk of falls.

Peripheral Nerve

• 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.
• Nerve Entrapments / Compressions (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Sciatica, Meralgia Paresthetica): Symptoms such as localized or radiating pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness caused by mechanical compression or irritation of peripheral nerves at specific anatomical sites (entrapment points).

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: Physiotherapy management of acute and persistent symptoms of a concussion, including addressing associated neck pain/dysfunction (cervicogenic component), vestibular (balance/dizziness) issues, oculomotor (eye movement) problems, and exertional intolerance.

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. Kristen Dickhout can assess your needs.

• 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.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Personalized programs incorporating various stretching techniques (e.g., static, dynamic, PNF) to alleviate stiffness, increase tissue extensibility, and promote better posture.
• 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.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Identifying and addressing habitual postures (e.g., from desk work, phone use) or ergonomic factors that may be contributing to your pain or dysfunction.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Targeted exercises using resistance (such as bodyweight, resistance bands, free weights, or gym equipment) to build muscle strength, power, and endurance, tailored to your specific rehabilitation needs or performance goals.
• 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.

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

• For those whose a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns) has made joining in on pickup basketball games at the local court seem like a distant memory, Kristen Dickhout's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward the ability to manage symptoms independently if they occasionally recur. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to joining in on pickup basketball games at the local court with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• At Kristen Dickhout's physiotherapy practice, individuals with wrist pain and tingling, possibly from carpal tunnel syndrome, especially at night are guided towards returning to their workout routine with greater confidence and better performance. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as managing shopping trips and carrying bags without excessive fatigue or pain.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from that 'arthritic' pain in my hands, hips, or knees and achieved a noticeable improvement in their gait and walking efficiency under the skilled care of Kristen Dickhout. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as travelling more comfortably on planes, trains, or in cars for longer durations with a new lease on life.
• Kristen Dickhout believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If sharp pain shooting down my leg, feeling a lot like sciatica is hindering your ability to participating in water aerobics or other pool-based exercises, a personalized plan focusing on a deeper understanding of their condition and how to manage it proactively for long-term well-being can make all the difference.

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

Kristen Dickhout practices at Regional Rehabilitation Centre, situated in the Hamilton North End, Beasley neighborhood of Hamilton. The clinic is conveniently located near James Street North Art District and is accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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.

Is there parking available at or near Regional Rehabilitation Centre?

Yes, there is ample free patient parking available directly in front of and beside our building. Look for the designated patient spots.

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 insurance for coverage as many plans offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

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.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

This is very individual and depends on many factors. After your comprehensive initial assessment, your Physiotherapist will be able to give you a better idea of the anticipated number of sessions and the frequency of visits needed to achieve your specific goals. We believe in open communication and will regularly review your progress with you, adjusting the treatment plan as you improve and as needed.

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

Some temporary post-treatment soreness can be normal, much like after a good workout. However, if your pain significantly worsens, if you develop new concerning symptoms, or if the discomfort doesn't settle down within a day or two, please call us. Your Physiotherapist would want to know so they can offer guidance and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan. Open communication is key to your successful recovery.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at Regional Rehabilitation Centre 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, shoulder pain (e.g., rotator cuff tendinopathy, impingement, frozen shoulder), joint problems (such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery), sports injuries, and nerve pain. We also have therapists with specialized skills in areas like general physiotherapy and Neurological Physiotherapy. Our treatments often involve Core Stability & Strengthening Training, Stretching & Flexibility Programs, and patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.

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, a medication list, and your extended health benefits information for direct billing if available. Wear comfortable clothing.

Regional Rehabilitation Centre
237 Barton Street East
Hamilton, ON, L8L 2X2

Phone: (905) 521-2100

Kristen Dickhout 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: XXX53

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=d988ace1-67c6-e811-817a-480fcff44541

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