Kristin Ann Gauthier – Physiotherapist | Ottawa, ON

Kristin Ann Gauthier is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Evolve Physiotherapy in Ottawa, ON, Kristin Gauthier is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Kristin Gauthier addresses 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. Kristin Gauthier serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Kristin Ann Gauthier completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Ottawa (Graduating Class of 2015). With clinical experience, Kristin Gauthier is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Kristin Gauthier has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Kristin Gauthier promotes preventative care and long-term wellness for the Ottawa community through proactive physiotherapy; a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals; empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Kristin Gauthier offers consultations in English, French.

Kristin Ann Gauthier provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Addressing the inflammation, pain, and restricted movement associated with stenosing tenosynovitis of the finger or thumb.
• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Managing a variety of acute and chronic conditions of the hand and wrist, aiming to reduce pain, improve function, and prevent long-term disability.

Joint Pain

• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Persistent tendon pain that can interfere with your sports, work, or daily activities, often requiring specific loading programs and advice from a physiotherapist for effective management.
• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Joint pain, aching, and functional limitation due to the progressive loss of cartilage, which physiotherapy can help manage through exercise, education, and pain relief strategies.

Back Neck Pain

• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Nerve compression symptoms due to a narrowing (stenosis) of the spinal canal or the small openings where nerves exit the spine (foramina), most commonly in the lumbar (lower back) or cervical (neck) regions.
• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Symptoms resulting from a whiplash injury, which can vary in severity (WAD Grades I-III) and duration, requiring a comprehensive physiotherapy approach for recovery.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Pain and muscle tension related to ergonomic factors at work or home, muscle imbalances, and suboptimal body mechanics or movement habits.
• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Sharp, shooting, electric-like, or burning pain that travels along the path of a nerve due to issues with intervertebral discs or other spinal structures.

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. Kristin Gauthier can assess your needs.

• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: A progressive program designed to build a strong and stable core, improving your body's foundation for all movements and reducing strain on other structures.
• 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.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Manual treatments specifically designed to improve joint mechanics, alleviate discomfort, reduce stiffness, and enhance your range of motion in the spine or limbs.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Education and instruction on effective and safe stretching techniques to help you maintain or improve your body's flexibility and joint mobility.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Comprehensive exercise plans developed by your Physiotherapist to combat deconditioning, enhance overall physical well-being, and promote an active lifestyle.
• 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 Kristin Gauthier, 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 Evolve Physiotherapy, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Kristin Gauthier frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• If wrist pain and tingling, possibly from carpal tunnel syndrome, especially at night is preventing you from fully enjoying going on enjoyable fishing or camping trips again, Kristin Gauthier offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining experiencing significant pain relief, allowing for a more comfortable daily life, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• It's truly rewarding for Kristin Gauthier to witness patients conquer difficulty with fine motor skills like buttoning shirts or writing due to hand pain and experience decreased frequency and intensity of headaches related to neck or postural issues. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in resuming their weightlifting routine at the gym safely again.
• The path to recovery from a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns) and achieving increased endurance for walking, allowing for longer and more enjoyable outings for maintaining an upright posture while working on their computer for hours often starts with expert guidance. Kristin Gauthier, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.
• Living with trouble performing repetitive tasks at work without pain doesn't have to be your norm. Kristin Gauthier applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards feeling more energetic and less weighed down by physical discomfort, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of being able to carry their baby or toddler without straining their back or arms.

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

Kristin Gauthier practices at Evolve Physiotherapy, situated in the Centretown West, Chinatown neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near Westgate Shopping Centre and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Please inquire regarding specific accessibility needs for our clinic. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial and integral component of most physiotherapy treatment plans. Your Physiotherapist will prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals. These exercises are designed to complement your in-clinic treatment, help you manage your symptoms effectively between sessions, accelerate your recovery, and empower you with tools for long-term self-management. Your active participation in your home program is key for optimal results.

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

In Ontario, you can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a doctor's referral. This is known as direct access. However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for coverage; check your policy before your appointment.

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

Some temporary post-treatment soreness is normal. However, if your pain significantly worsens, you develop new symptoms, or the discomfort doesn't subside within a day or two, contact the clinic immediately.

Does Evolve Physiotherapy offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, Evolve Physiotherapy 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 with your insurance provider, as plans vary significantly. You are responsible for any portion not covered by your insurance.

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 for coverage.

Evolve Physiotherapy
953 Somerset Street West
Ottawa, ON, K1R 6R8

Kristin Ann Gauthier 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: XXX11

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=748ef410-9302-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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