Kristy Nicole Obrovac – Physiotherapist | Hamilton, ON

Kristy Nicole Obrovac is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton in Hamilton, ON, Kristy Obrovac is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Kristy Obrovac focuses on providing comprehensive assessment and treatment for a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal injuries, pain conditions, and movement dysfunctions to help patients of all ages restore function, manage pain, and improve their quality of life. Kristy Obrovac serves adults.

Kristy Nicole Obrovac completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 2008). With clinical experience, Kristy Obrovac is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Kristy Obrovac has a particular interest or further training in areas such as General Physiotherapy Practice and general physiotherapy.

Kristy Obrovac empowers patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results; promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Hamilton community through proactive physiotherapy. Kristy Obrovac offers consultations in English.

Kristy Nicole Obrovac provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

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): 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.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Disorders affecting hand and wrist function, making daily tasks such as gripping objects, typing, writing, or fine motor activities difficult and painful.
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Discomfort felt around the shoulder blade, at the top of the shoulder, or radiating down the arm, making simple tasks challenging.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Neck problems that interfere with your sleep quality, ability to work comfortably (especially at a desk), or perform everyday tasks without pain.

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. Kristy Obrovac can assess your needs.

• 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.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A thorough evaluation by your Physiotherapist to accurately diagnose movement dysfunctions, injuries, and the underlying sources of your pain.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: A variety of hands-on methods such as therapeutic massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and active release style techniques to reduce muscle tension, break down scar tissue, improve circulation, and enhance tissue flexibility.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Skilled hands-on techniques, including gentle joint mobilizations (smooth, rhythmic movements) and, where appropriate and authorized, joint manipulations (quick, precise thrusts) to restore optimal movement, reduce pain, and improve joint function.
• 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.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Empowering you with a clear understanding of your condition, its causes, and practical tools for effective self-management and lasting relief.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Kristy Obrovac, 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 St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Kristy Obrovac frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of trouble with everyday tasks because of pain or weakness in my hands or grip? Kristy Obrovac works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of feeling more resilient and less vulnerable to minor strains or injuries. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as using garden tools effectively and without pain.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Kristy Obrovac's clinic, common concerns like frequent headaches that seem to start from tension in my neck or shoulders are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of better joint stability during movement and weight-bearing activities. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like reading a good book for hours without experiencing neck pain or headaches.
• At Kristy Obrovac's physiotherapy practice, individuals with trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury are guided towards successfully avoiding or delaying the need for more invasive treatments or surgery. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as keeping up with their team during our weekly soccer match.
• When breathing difficulties and shortness of breath with COPD or asthma, especially during activity is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing actively participating in family outings and vacations without holding others back, physiotherapy with Kristy Obrovac can help you work towards getting back to enjoying life's simple pleasures without physical limitations. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.

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

Kristy Obrovac practices at St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, situated in the Corktown, Stinson neighborhood of Hamilton. The clinic is conveniently located near Dundurn Castle National Historic Site and is accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

It's recommended to wear or bring clothing that allows unrestricted movement and provides easy access for your physiotherapist to examine the body part being assessed or treated. For instance, if you have a knee problem, please wear or bring shorts. For shoulder issues, a sleeveless top or a top with loose armholes is often helpful. The goal is to make the assessment and treatment as effective as possible.

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. It is strongly advised to check your private insurance for coverage of services at a private clinic.

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.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession dedicated to helping people of all ages improve their movement, function, and overall well-being. A registered Physiotherapist uses evidence-based techniques like targeted exercise, hands-on manual therapy, and personalized education to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of injuries, pain conditions, and physical impairments affecting your muscles, bones, joints, nerves, and even your cardiorespiratory system. It can help you reduce pain, increase mobility and strength, recover from surgery, prevent future injuries, and enhance your quality of life.

Does St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

While we do not offer direct billing at this time, we provide detailed official receipts that you can easily submit to your insurer for reimbursement according to your plan. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment and confirm your coverage with your provider as plans vary significantly. You are responsible for any portion not covered by your insurance.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

While some physiotherapy techniques might feel uncomfortable or cause a temporary increase in soreness (similar to muscle soreness after a new workout), especially when working on stiff joints or tight muscles, it should not be excessively or intolerably painful. Your Physiotherapist will discuss what sensations you might expect with different treatments and will always aim to adjust the intensity and techniques to ensure you are as comfortable as possible while still achieving therapeutic benefits. Constant communication about your comfort level is very important.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton treat?

Our Physiotherapists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal 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 general physiotherapy. Our treatments often involve manual therapy, comprehensive assessments, and patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.

What are St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton's operating hours?

Our clinic is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Hours can vary by practitioner and day, so please call our office or check our website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton
50 Charlton Ave. E.
Hamilton, ON, L8N 4A6

Phone: (905) 522-1155

Kristy Nicole Obrovac 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: XXX02

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=87cfc877-8f02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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