Laura Catherine Markovic – Physiotherapist | Whitby, ON

Laura Catherine Markovic is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at The Physio Studio in Whitby, ON, Laura Markovic is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Laura Markovic 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. Laura Markovic serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Laura Catherine Markovic completed their degree in Physiotherapy from D'Youville University (Graduating Class of 2008). With clinical experience, Laura Markovic is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Laura Markovic has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Laura Markovic employs a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals; a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Laura Markovic offers consultations in English.

Laura Catherine Markovic provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Arthritis

• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Exercises and advice to manage the impact of gout on your joints, improve mobility, and reduce the likelihood of long-term joint damage.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Physiotherapy as an important part of a multidisciplinary team approach to managing rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory joint conditions (e.g., ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis), helping to minimize disease impact and maximize quality of life.

Hand Wrist

• 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.
• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Conservative physiotherapy management for trigger digit, which may include splinting to rest the tendon, specific tendon gliding exercises, activity modification advice, modalities to reduce inflammation, and education to prevent recurrence.

Post Surgical

• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: A structured, progressive, and goal-oriented physiotherapy rehabilitation program crucial for restoring knee stability, strength, range of motion, and proprioception (joint position sense) after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or other knee ligament (e.g., PCL, MCL, LCL) reconstructive surgery.
• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): A progressive exercise program, often combined with manual therapy, designed to gradually restore your shoulder's range of motion, strength, and coordination following your operation.
• Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): A structured physiotherapy plan to help you recover full function, independence, and confidence in your new hip after replacement surgery.
• Post-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): The crucial rehabilitation phase following total or partial knee replacement surgery, with physiotherapy focusing on restoring range of motion, building strength, improving balance, managing pain and swelling, and enabling functional mobility (e.g., walking, stairs, getting in/out of a car).

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. Laura Markovic can assess your needs.

• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Utilizing targeted electrical currents to help alleviate pain, manage discomfort, and support healing in conjunction with other physiotherapy interventions.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: Application of therapeutic heat to prepare tissues for exercise, manual therapy, or stretching, or to manage chronic muscle soreness and joint stiffness.
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): The application of focused acoustic waves (Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy) by a trained Physiotherapist to treat chronic tendon issues (e.g., plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, Achilles tendinopathy), calcific tendinosis, and other persistent musculoskeletal conditions.
• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: The application of gentle, controlled mechanical or manual force to distract (stretch) spinal segments, aiming to alleviate pressure on intervertebral discs, nerves, and facet joints.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Cold therapy techniques applied by your therapist to effectively alleviate acute pain, reduce inflammation, and manage muscle soreness or spasm.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: The application of specific wavelengths of light energy (cold laser) by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and accelerate tissue repair and regeneration at a cellular level.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Laura Markovic, 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 The Physio Studio, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Laura Markovic frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• The path to recovery from working on getting back to normal after a fracture or other surgery and achieving greater ease with dressing, bathing, and other self-care activities for participating in community events and social gatherings more actively often starts with expert guidance. Laura Markovic, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.
• Laura Markovic believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury is hindering your ability to using garden tools effectively and without pain, a personalized plan focusing on a renewed sense of vitality and enthusiasm for daily activities can make all the difference.
• Laura Markovic frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns). A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets experiencing significant pain relief, allowing for a more comfortable daily life and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like being able to kneel or squat down to play with pets or children.
• It's truly rewarding for Laura Markovic to witness patients conquer my baby/child having trouble with their motor skills, like delayed rolling, sitting or walking and experience less reliance on pain medication, trusting more in their body's ability to heal and function. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in performing self-care tasks like hair washing or reaching their back again.

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

Laura Markovic practices at The Physio Studio, situated in the Rolling Acres, Pringle Creek neighborhood of Whitby. The clinic is conveniently located near Whitby SmartCentres (various) and is accessible via Durham Region Transit (DRT). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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, even though a referral isn't legally required to book an appointment, some private insurance plans may require one for coverage. It is strongly recommended that you check with your insurance provider before your first appointment to understand their specific requirements for physiotherapy coverage.

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

Physiotherapy services in private clinics are generally not covered by OHIP. OHIP may cover physiotherapy in specific circumstances, such as after a hospital stay for certain conditions, or for children, youth, and seniors through specific programs, but eligibility requirements are strict and there may be waitlists. To determine your eligibility for publicly funded physiotherapy, contact OHIP directly. Most people will need to rely on their private or extended health insurance plans for coverage of physiotherapy services received in private clinics. Always check your private insurance policy to see what physiotherapy services are covered.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your first physiotherapy appointment, which includes a detailed assessment and the development of your initial treatment plan, usually takes about 60 minutes. Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled for 30 to 45 minutes. The exact duration of each session will depend on the nature of your treatment and what your Physiotherapist has planned for that specific visit to best help you progress.

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.

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

Comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement is best for your physiotherapy appointment – think about what you might wear to a gym or for light exercise. If you're being treated for a lower-body issue (like hip or knee pain), shorts are very helpful. For upper-body issues (like shoulder or neck pain), a tank top or loose t-shirt is suitable so the Physiotherapist can properly examine and treat the area.

The Physio Studio
220 Taunton Rd. East, Unit 3,
Whitby, ON, L1R 0M5

Phone: (905) 665-1999

Laura Catherine Markovic 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: XXX23

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=e6829fb3-8f02-e811-813f-480fcff40721

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