Laura Gayle Dienesch – Physiotherapist | Milton, ON

Laura Gayle Dienesch is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Vestibular & Balance Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at LifeMark Physiotherapy River Ridge in Milton, ON, Laura Dienesch is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Laura Dienesch offers specialized assessment and treatment for dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders caused by inner ear or central vestibular system issues. Laura Dienesch aims to reduce symptoms, improve stability, and reduce fall risk, serving patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Laura Gayle Dienesch completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 2002). With extensive clinical experience, Laura Dienesch is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Laura Dienesch has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation.

Laura Dienesch employs a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Laura Dienesch's patient-centered approach actively involves individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting, empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Laura Dienesch offers consultations in English.

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

Vestibular Balance

• Vestibular Hypofunction (Unilateral or Bilateral): Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for inner ear balance problems, involving customized exercises that promote central nervous system compensation and adaptation to the weakened vestibular input.
• Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD / 3PD): Vestibular rehabilitation therapy, including habituation exercises, sensory re-weighting, and balance training, often as part of a multidisciplinary approach (which may include medication or CBT), for managing the symptoms of PPPD/3PD.
• General Balance Deficits and Increased Fall Risk: Comprehensive balance assessment by a Physiotherapist to identify underlying causes of unsteadiness, followed by targeted exercise programs and strategies to help you stay steady on your feet.
• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): A common cause of vertigo that is highly treatable with specific physiotherapy maneuvers, such as the Epley maneuver or Semont maneuver, designed to reposition the displaced inner ear crystals.

Neurological

• Stroke (CVA) Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy aimed at improving mobility (e.g., walking, transfers), balance, strength, coordination, sensation, and daily function (e.g., dressing, self-care) after a stroke (cerebrovascular accident).
• Muscular Dystrophy / Myopathy - Supportive Physiotherapy Care: Helping individuals with muscular dystrophies and myopathies adapt to changes in their physical abilities and maintain their participation in meaningful activities through tailored physiotherapy.
• Functional Neurological Disorders (FND) - Movement Retraining: Supporting individuals with FND to improve their physical function, reduce symptom burden, and enhance participation in daily life activities through specialized physiotherapy.
• Parkinson's Disease Management & Movement Therapy: Specialized physiotherapy exercises and movement strategies (e.g., LSVT BIG® principles, amplitude-based training, cueing techniques) to improve balance, gait (walking), posture, flexibility, coordination, and overall motor function in individuals with Parkinson's Disease.

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: A brain injury caused by a direct or indirect blow to the head, resulting in a range of symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, visual disturbances, cognitive difficulties (e.g., 'brain fog', memory issues), fatigue, and emotional changes. Post-Concussion Syndrome refers to symptoms persisting beyond the typical recovery window.

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 Dienesch can assess your needs.

• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Evaluation of your body's basic movements (like squatting, lunging, reaching) to highlight areas for improvement in stability, mobility, and motor control.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: An in-depth examination to fully understand your specific condition, allowing your Physiotherapist to create an effective and personalized rehabilitation plan.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Teaching you essential strategies and exercises to manage your symptoms independently, accelerate recovery, and prevent future problems.
• Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Disorders: Specialized assessment and treatment techniques, such as canalith repositioning maneuvers (e.g., Epley maneuver for Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo - BPPV), to address symptoms of dizziness, vertigo (spinning sensations), and imbalance caused by inner ear or central vestibular system dysfunction.
• Balance Training & Falls Prevention Programs: Targeted exercises and strategies designed by your Physiotherapist to improve your stability, coordination, lower limb strength, and body awareness (proprioception), thereby reducing your risk of falls, particularly beneficial for older adults or individuals with balance impairments.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Identifying and addressing habitual postures (e.g., from desk work, phone use) or ergonomic factors that may be contributing to your pain or dysfunction.

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

• Many patients have found lasting relief from trouble performing repetitive tasks at work without pain and achieved achieving their specific mobility goals, whether big or small under the skilled care of Laura Dienesch. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as going on enjoyable fishing or camping trips again with a new lease on life.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of feeling generally stiff, achy, and less mobile than I used to be? Laura Dienesch works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of the ability to sit for longer periods (e.g., at a desk, in a car) without significant discomfort. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as playing a few sets of tennis without shoulder pain.
• Living with needing to improve my breathing patterns or lung capacity doesn't have to be your norm. Laura Dienesch applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards improved circulation and tissue healing, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of playing a full game of recreational hockey with their friends.
• With Laura Dienesch's help, managing recovering from a concussion and dealing with lingering symptoms like dizziness or headaches to achieve getting back to enjoying life's simple pleasures without physical limitations becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like managing shopping trips and carrying bags without excessive fatigue or pain.

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

Laura Dienesch practices at LifeMark Physiotherapy River Ridge, located in the Milton Central/North/East (Old Milton, Dempsey, Clarke, Beaty, Coates) neighborhood of Milton. The clinic enjoys convenient proximity to Toronto Premium Outlets and is easily accessible via Milton Transit. 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, while a referral isn't legally required for an appointment, some extended health insurance plans may require one for coverage. It's crucial to check your individual insurance policy before your first appointment to understand their specific requirements.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

You can expect your initial physiotherapy visit to be around an hour long. This extended time allows for a comprehensive assessment of your condition and a collaborative discussion about your treatment goals. Subsequent follow-up sessions are generally between 30 and 45 minutes, though this can be adjusted based on your individual requirements. Your Physiotherapist will advise on the appropriate appointment length for your specific care.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at LifeMark Physiotherapy River Ridge treat?

Our Physiotherapists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes, but is not limited to, issues like back and neck pain (Osteoarthritis (Major Joints)), joint problems (such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery), sports injuries, and nerve pain. We also have therapists with specialized skills in areas like Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation and general physiotherapy. Our treatments often involve Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified), Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment, and patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.

What is LifeMark Physiotherapy River Ridge's appointment cancellation policy?

We understand that schedules can change unexpectedly. To ensure we can accommodate all our patients efficiently, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer the time slot to other patients who may be waiting for care. A fee may be charged for late cancellations (less than 24 hours' notice) or missed appointments without sufficient notice. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your appointment.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial 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.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy refers to specialized hands-on techniques used by a Physiotherapist to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. This can include joint mobilization (gentle, rhythmic gliding movements), joint manipulation (skilled, high-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts, where appropriate and within the therapist's scope and with your consent), various soft tissue mobilization techniques (like massage, myofascial release, trigger point release), and neural mobilization (gentle techniques to improve nerve movement). The primary goals are to reduce pain, improve range of motion, restore optimal joint mechanics, reduce muscle tension, and enhance tissue repair and function.

Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?

For your first visit, please bring your provincial health card (e.g., Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) card, if applicable), any relevant medical information such as a doctor's referral note (if you have one), reports from recent imaging (like X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound scans), and a list of your current medications. Also, if you plan to use private health insurance, bring your insurance card or policy details. Finally, wear or bring comfortable clothing suitable for assessment and movement.

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.

LifeMark Physiotherapy River Ridge
105 - 311 Commercial St.
Milton, ON, L9T 3Z9

Phone: (905) 693-8852

Laura Gayle Dienesch 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=a0c4a059-8d02-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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