Kristi D. Zimmerman – Physiotherapist | Fort Erie, ON

Kristi D. Zimmerman is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Geriatric Physiotherapy Focus / Seniors' Health). Practicing at Niagara Health System – Douglas Memorial Hospital site in Fort Erie, ON, Kristi Zimmerman is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Kristi Zimmerman focuses on the unique health needs of older adults, aiming to improve and maintain mobility, strength, balance, manage age-related conditions like arthritis or osteoporosis, reduce fall risk, and enhance overall quality of life and independence. Kristi Zimmerman serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Kristi D. Zimmerman completed their degree in Physiotherapy from D'Youville University (Graduating Class of 1999). With extensive clinical experience, Kristi Zimmerman is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Kristi Zimmerman has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Geriatric Physiotherapy / Seniors' Health.

Kristi Zimmerman's practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Fort Erie community through proactive physiotherapy. Kristi Zimmerman maintains a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care, and employs a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Kristi Zimmerman offers consultations in English.

Kristi D. Zimmerman provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Arthritis

• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Helping you regain mobility, reduce discomfort, and improve function in affected joints after a gout episode, as part of your overall gout management plan.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: An autoimmune condition causing chronic inflammation, pain, stiffness, swelling, and potential deformity in multiple joints, often symmetrically. Physiotherapy aims to manage pain, maintain joint function and mobility, improve strength and endurance, provide joint protection strategies, and support self-management.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Physiotherapy for ankylosing spondylitis focuses on maintaining spinal mobility and flexibility (especially extension), improving posture, strengthening core and back muscles, managing pain, and providing education on self-management and regular exercise.

Joint Pain

• 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.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Pain, tenderness, swelling, and dysfunction in a tendon (the strong cords that attach muscles to bones) due to overuse, repetitive strain, injury, or degeneration. Common sites include the Achilles, patellar tendon (knee), rotator cuff (shoulder), or elbow (tennis/golfer's elbow).

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. Kristi Zimmerman can assess your needs.

• Chronic & Persistent Pain Management Programs: Multifaceted and individualized physiotherapy approaches including pain science education (understanding your pain), graded exercise therapy, pacing strategies, coping mechanisms, manual therapy (where appropriate), and relaxation techniques to help you manage persistent pain and improve your quality of life.
• Fibromyalgia & Widespread Pain Management: Improving daily function, energy levels, and reducing pain sensitivity for individuals with fibromyalgia through a carefully progressed and individualized physiotherapy plan.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Targeted therapy to alleviate symptoms such as shooting pain, pins and needles, or weakness arising from neural tension or entrapment.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Hands-on treatment focusing on your body's soft tissues to restore pliability, reduce discomfort, and optimize movement quality.
• Balance Training & Falls Prevention Programs: Specific training programs to enhance your sense of body position, improve your reaction times to unexpected balance disturbances, and build confidence in your ability to move safely in various environments.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): A form of manual therapy that actively involves you in your treatment, utilizing your body's muscular effort to achieve specific therapeutic effects on restricted joints and shortened soft tissues.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Kristi Zimmerman, 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 Niagara Health System – Douglas Memorial Hospital site, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Kristi Zimmerman frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• With Kristi Zimmerman's help, managing pain or weakness that's stopping me from enjoying my favorite hobbies to achieve feeling less fatigued during physical activities and throughout the day becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like easily carrying groceries in from the car in one or two trips.
• Physiotherapy with Kristi Zimmerman can be a transformative turning point for those affected by dealing with pelvic pain or bladder/bowel control issues (for both men and women). The shared goal is achieving implementing practical strategies to avoid re-injury during work or daily life, paving the way for you to enjoy dressing myself independently and without difficulty, including shoes and socks and a more active, vibrant life.
• Don't let that 'arthritic' pain in my hands, hips, or knees dictate what you can and cannot do. Kristi Zimmerman offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at improved circulation and tissue healing, helping you reclaim attending concerts or theatre shows and sitting comfortably throughout and enjoy a more functional life.
• Rediscover your ability to taking energetic, long walks with their dog every day without the constant burden of managing stiffness, tremors, and movement challenges with Parkinson's disease. Kristi Zimmerman focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to greater ease with dressing, bathing, and other self-care activities, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.

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

Kristi Zimmerman practices at the Niagara Health System – Douglas Memorial Hospital site, located in a physiotherapy clinic in the central Fort Erie neighborhood of Fort Erie, ON. The clinic is conveniently located near nearby parks and community recreation facilities and is accessible via local public transit routes. Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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 *access* to physiotherapy services, some private health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement. It is crucial to check with your insurance provider before your appointment to understand their specific coverage requirements.

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

Many private health insurance plans offer coverage for registered physiotherapy services, but the details vary widely. Before your first appointment, contact your insurance provider to clarify: your annual maximum for physiotherapy; any per-visit limits or co-payments; whether a doctor's referral is needed for reimbursement; and if your plan allows direct billing. If direct billing is possible and your clinic offers it, the clinic can bill your insurer directly. You'll only be responsible for any co-payment or remaining balance. Bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. If direct billing isn't an option, you'll receive a receipt to submit to your insurer for reimbursement.

Is physiotherapy covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

OHIP generally does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private outpatient clinics. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available through specific programs, such as post-hospitalization care for certain conditions, or for children/youth, seniors, or through Community Physiotherapy Clinics/Family Health Teams. Eligibility criteria are strict, and waitlists may exist. Check your eligibility with OHIP directly and always verify your private/extended health insurance coverage, as many plans offer significant coverage for private clinic physiotherapy services.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at Niagara Health System – Douglas Memorial Hospital site treat?

Physiotherapists at the Niagara Health System – Douglas Memorial Hospital site treat a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes, but is not limited to, back and neck pain, joint problems (arthritis, post-surgical recovery), sports injuries, and nerve pain. We also have therapists specializing in Geriatric Physiotherapy / Seniors' Health and general physiotherapy. Treatments often involve manual therapy, exercise prescription, and patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Absolutely! Home exercises are essential for rehabilitation. Your physiotherapist will design a personalized program to reinforce in-clinic work, manage your condition, and help you progress towards your goals even between sessions.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Definitely. Physiotherapy helps prevent future problems by assessing your movement, identifying potential weaknesses, and providing personalized exercise and strategy programs. This proactive approach benefits athletes, those with physically demanding jobs, and anyone seeking long-term musculoskeletal health.

Niagara Health System – Douglas Memorial Hospital site
230 Bertie Street
Fort Erie, ON, L2A 1Z2

Kristi D. Zimmerman 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=1fd26ca5-8c02-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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