About
Kristin Renae Christensen is a dedicated Physiotherapist practicing at Wetaskiwin Hospital and Care Centre in Wetaskiwin, AB. She is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the College of Physical Therapists of Alberta (CPTA). Kristin’s approach emphasizes understanding each patient’s unique needs and tailoring treatment plans that promote recovery, pain relief, and improved function. Her focus is on fostering a welcoming environment where patients feel supported and empowered throughout their rehabilitation journey.
Kristin’s role involves offering comprehensive assessment and treatment for a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal injuries, pain conditions, and movement dysfunctions. She serves a diverse range of patients, from athletes recovering from sports injuries to seniors managing chronic pain, and individuals navigating post-surgical rehabilitation. Her goal is to help each person restore mobility, reduce discomfort, and enhance their overall quality of life through evidence-based physiotherapy techniques and compassionate care.
With a solid educational background and ongoing professional development, Kristin has completed her degree in Physiotherapy and continues to stay updated with the latest advancements in the field. She practices with a strong philosophy that emphasizes collaboration, active patient involvement, and continuous learning. Kristin offers care in English and is dedicated to helping her community achieve better health and well-being through personalized physiotherapy services.
Kristin Renae Christensen provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:
Back Neck Pain
- 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: A common cause of persistent back and neck pain due to the cumulative strain of prolonged sitting, standing, or performing tasks in non-ideal positions.
- Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Symptoms like 'neurogenic claudication' – leg pain, cramping, or heaviness with walking or prolonged standing that typically eases with rest or bending forward (flexion).
Joint Pain
- Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A chronic condition causing joint discomfort, stiffness (especially in the morning or after inactivity), and impacting your ability to perform daily activities, walk, or engage in hobbies.
- 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).
Common Msk
- Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Aching, sharp, or deep pain in the hip that may worsen with activity, specific movements, or even at rest.
- Muscle Strains and Tears: Common injuries in active individuals, athletes, or resulting from accidents, leading to localized pain, swelling, bruising, and weakness in the affected muscle (e.g., hamstring, calf, quadriceps, groin, rotator cuff).
- Ankle Sprains and Instability: Weakness, a feeling of the ankle 'giving way' repeatedly, or persistent pain after an initial sprain, indicating a need for targeted physiotherapy to restore stability and function.
- Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or stiffness in the wrist, hand, or fingers, often resulting from overuse, repetitive tasks, arthritis, or specific conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or De Quervain's tenosynovitis.
This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Kristin can assess your needs.
- Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: Detailed physical assessment of your joints, muscles, nerves, and movement patterns to identify the root cause of your symptoms and guide your treatment.
- Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Providing clear guidance on self-care techniques, activity modifications, and beneficial lifestyle adjustments for long-term well-being and injury prevention.
- 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.
- Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: A carefully selected set of exercises specific to your condition and abilities, aimed at restoring function, reducing pain, improving movement, and preventing future issues.
- Postural Assessment and Correction: Detailed analysis of your static and dynamic posture, with tailored exercises, stretches, and advice to help you improve alignment and reduce strain on your body.
- Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Assessing your fundamental movement patterns to identify limitations, asymmetries, and potential risk factors for injury or re-injury.
Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Kristin. For a full list or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.
All services are provided in accordance with standards set by the College of Physical Therapists of Alberta (CPTA).
At Wetaskiwin Hospital and Care Centre, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Kristin frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- Don't let shoulder pain that makes simple things like lifting my arm or reaching overhead difficult dictate what you can and cannot do. Kristin offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at a return to intimacy without the fear of pain or discomfort, helping you reclaim pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty and enjoy a more functional life.
- At Kristin's physiotherapy practice, individuals with loss of strength in one of my limbs after an injury are guided towards getting back to hiking, running, or cycling pain-free and with renewed vigor. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as participating in community events and social gatherings more actively.
- Discover how physiotherapy with Kristin can help you move beyond breathing difficulties and shortness of breath with COPD or asthma, especially during activity. The focus is on greater confidence when walking, standing, or navigating challenging environments, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as getting back to golfing 18 holes without your back acting up.
Your personalized physiotherapy plan, developed with Kristin, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.
Kristin practices at the Wetaskiwin Hospital and Care Centre, situated in the central Wetaskiwin neighborhood of Wetaskiwin, AB. The clinic is conveniently located within the hospital complex, making it easy for patients to access essential healthcare services in one location. It is close to local community resources, pharmacies, and public transit routes, ensuring accessible and efficient care. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.
- Is physiotherapy covered by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- In Alberta, the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) provides limited coverage for some physiotherapy services, typically after hospital discharge or for specific low-income individuals and seniors through particular programs. Most outpatient private clinic physiotherapy is not directly covered by AHCIP for the general population. Patients are advised to check current AHCIP details and consult their private insurance plans for coverage options.
- What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at Wetaskiwin Hospital and Care Centre treat?
- Kristin treats a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes, but is not limited to, back and neck pain (such as whiplash and postural issues), joint problems like osteoarthritis, tendinopathies, muscle strains, ankle sprains, wrist and hand conditions, and more. Her treatments often involve comprehensive assessments, manual therapy, patient education, and exercise prescription to help patients regain function and reduce pain.
- What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?
- Manual therapy encompasses a range of hands-on techniques used by Physiotherapists to reduce pain, improve joint mobility, relax tight muscles, and enhance nerve mobility. Techniques include joint glides, soft tissue massage, sustained pressures, and joint manipulations when appropriate. It is a key intervention for improving movement and alleviating discomfort.
- Is there parking available at or near Wetaskiwin Hospital and Care Centre?
- Yes, there is ample free patient parking available directly in front of and beside the hospital. Look for designated patient spots. Additional street parking and paid parking options are also available nearby, with signage indicating restrictions. Please check local signage for any time limits.
- Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Physiotherapist in AB?
- No, in Alberta, patients can typically access physiotherapy services directly without a referral, a practice known as direct access. However, some private insurance plans may require a physician's referral for reimbursement. Patients should verify their insurance requirements prior to their appointment.
- What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?
- Your initial appointment involves a thorough assessment, where Kristin will discuss your medical history, current symptoms, and goals. She will then perform a physical examination, evaluate your movement patterns, strength, and posture, and may perform special tests. Based on her findings, she will provide a diagnosis or clinical impression, discuss a personalized treatment plan, and often initiate some interventions or exercises to get you started.
Wetaskiwin Hospital and Care Centre
6910 47 Street
Wetaskiwin, AB T9A 3N3
Phone: (780) 361-4148
Kristin Renae Christensen is regulated by the Health Professions Act in AB and is a member of the College of Physical Therapists of Alberta (CPTA).
License #5265
Registration can be verified with the College of Physical Therapists of Alberta (CPTA).
Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.