Kyle Arthur Birch – Physiotherapist | Hamilton, ON

Kyle Arthur Birch is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at Hamilton Health Sciences Juravinski Hospital in Hamilton, ON, Kyle Birch is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Kyle Birch specializes in managing acute and chronic conditions affecting the heart and lungs, such as COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, post-operative cardiac or respiratory recovery, and post-COVID symptoms. Kyle Birch's approach involves breathing exercises, airway clearance, exercise prescription, and education. Kyle Birch serves adults.

Kyle Arthur Birch completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McGill University School of Physical and Occupational Therapy (Graduating Class of 2020). With clinical experience, Kyle Birch is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Kyle Birch has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy.

Kyle Birch empowers patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Kyle Birch employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Kyle Birch promotes preventative care and long-term wellness for the Hamilton community through proactive physiotherapy. Kyle Birch offers consultations in English.

Kyle Arthur Birch provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Cardioresp

• Asthma Management (Exercise-Induced & General Support): Helping individuals with asthma, including those who experience exercise-induced asthma, to participate more fully and safely in physical activity and sports.
• Post-Pneumonia / Respiratory Infection Recovery: Helping you get back on your feet, improve your stamina, and restore your respiratory health after a severe chest infection.
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Management (e.g., Chronic Bronchitis, Emphysema): Physiotherapy as a core component of pulmonary rehabilitation programs for COPD, including supervised exercise training (aerobic and strength), breathing techniques (e.g., pursed-lip breathing, diaphragmatic breathing), airway clearance techniques (if mucus is an issue), and education to help manage COPD symptoms, improve exercise tolerance, and enhance quality of life.
• Bronchiectasis Management (Airway Clearance): Teaching and supervising various airway clearance techniques (ACTs) and devices (e.g., PEP devices, Acapella, Flutter, postural drainage, active cycle of breathing techniques - ACBT) to help individuals with bronchiectasis clear lung secretions effectively, reduce infection risk, and improve breathing.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Symptoms in your hand or wrist that impact your ability to perform your job, hobbies, or essential self-care tasks, addressed by specialized hand physiotherapy.
• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Aching, sharp pain, a feeling of the knee 'giving way', or difficulty fully bending or straightening your knee.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): A broad term for common injuries affecting muscles, tendons (tendinitis/tendinopathy), ligaments (sprains), joint capsules (capsulitis), and bursae (bursitis), leading to pain, inflammation, and functional limitations.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Injuries to ankle ligaments, typically from twisting or 'rolling' motions, leading to pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Can result in recurrent sprains and chronic instability if not properly rehabilitated.

Long Covid

• Post-COVID-19 Condition / Long COVID Symptom Management: Managing a wide range of persistent or new symptoms that can occur for weeks, months, or longer after the acute COVID-19 infection, including profound fatigue, breathlessness, 'brain fog' (cognitive issues), muscle weakness, joint pain, exercise intolerance, dizziness, and POTS-like symptoms.

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. Kyle Birch can assess your needs.

• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Specialized manual techniques aimed at restoring normal movement and function to peripheral nerves that may be compressed, adhered, or under tension.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Customized strength training to address specific weaknesses identified in your assessment, helping to correct imbalances, improve movement efficiency, and achieve your physical objectives.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Application of skilled soft tissue techniques to manage pain, stiffness, and improve function in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia.
• 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.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Gentle, active manual therapy techniques where you use your own specific muscle contractions against your therapist's controlled resistance to improve joint mobility, lengthen tight tissues, and reduce pain.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Developing control, strength, and endurance in your core musculature for improved functional performance, pain reduction, and prevention of re-injury.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Kyle Birch, 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 Hamilton Health Sciences Juravinski Hospital, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Kyle Birch frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Tired of shoulder pain that makes simple things like lifting my arm or reaching overhead difficult interfering with tackling home renovation and DIY projects with confidence? Kyle Birch uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve returning to their workout routine with greater confidence and better performance and regain your freedom of movement.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Kyle Birch can help you move beyond needing to improve my breathing patterns or lung capacity. The focus is on reduced swelling and inflammation in injured areas, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as going on birdwatching outings in various terrains.
• Kyle Birch believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If difficulty moving one side of my body or walking easily after a stroke is hindering your ability to spending hours gardening comfortably, without subsequent back or knee strain, a personalized plan focusing on moving more freely and with greater agility than they have in years can make all the difference.
• The journey to effectively managing chronic pain and reclaiming an active lifestyle when faced with persistent that 'pins and needles' feeling that won't go away is made smoother and more effective with Kyle Birch's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like swimming laps at the pool for fitness and relaxation.

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

Kyle Birch practices at Hamilton Health Sciences Juravinski Hospital, situated in the Hamilton Mountain Central (Inch Park, Eastmount) neighborhood of Hamilton. The clinic is conveniently located near Bayfront Park and is accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR). Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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 Ontarians. 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/extended health insurance plan, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

Is there parking available at or near Hamilton Health Sciences Juravinski Hospital?

Yes, there is ample parking available at Hamilton Health Sciences Juravinski Hospital. Please check signage for rates and any restrictions.

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

No, you do not need a doctor's referral to see a physiotherapist in Ontario. However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for coverage, so check your policy.

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

It's not uncommon to experience some temporary soreness or a mild increase in symptoms after certain physiotherapy treatments, especially in the initial stages or if you're starting new exercises. This usually subsides within 24-48 hours. However, if you experience a significant or sharp increase in pain, new or worsening neurological symptoms (like numbness, tingling, or weakness), or if your soreness lasts longer than expected, it's important to contact Kyle Birch or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your first visit, the Physiotherapist will conduct a detailed evaluation to get a full picture of your condition. This usually involves a thorough discussion about your symptoms, how they impact your daily life, any relevant medical history, and your personal goals for therapy. A physical assessment will then be performed to help pinpoint the cause of your problem and assess your physical capabilities. Afterwards, your therapist will explain their findings, collaborate with you to set treatment goals, and outline a proposed plan of care. You'll likely receive some initial advice, exercises, or hands-on treatment to begin your recovery journey.

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

Many private health insurance plans offer full or partial coverage for registered physiotherapy services. Contact your insurance provider before your first appointment to understand your plan's specifics (annual maximum, per-visit limits, co-payments, referral requirements, and direct billing options). If direct billing is possible, we can bill your insurer directly; otherwise, we'll provide a receipt for you to submit.

Hamilton Health Sciences Juravinski Hospital
711 Concession St.
Hamilton, ON, L8V 1C3

Phone: (905) 521-2100

Kyle Arthur Birch 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: XXX17

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=6f8f0301-314e-eb11-a812-000d3af427b4

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