Laurie Margaret McLaughlin – Physiotherapist | Oakville, ON

Laurie Margaret McLaughlin is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at ProActive Health in Oakville, ON, Laurie is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Laurie 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. Laurie serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Laurie Margaret McLaughlin completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Mohawk College (Graduating Class of 1982). With extensive clinical experience, Laurie is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Laurie has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Laurie's practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Oakville community through proactive physiotherapy. Laurie employs a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Laurie offers consultations in English.

Laurie Margaret McLaughlin provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Back Neck Pain

• 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).
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Muscular pain, trigger points, and tension headaches resulting from habitual poor posture, which can be addressed with postural re-education, exercises, and ergonomic advice.
• 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.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Common injuries related to physical activity, sports participation, accidental falls, or overuse from daily or work-related tasks.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Pain, discomfort, or stiffness in the lumbar spine region, whether it's a sudden onset or a long-lasting issue affecting your daily life.

Post Surgical

• 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-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): A structured physiotherapy program to manage post-operative pain and swelling, improve knee flexibility and strength, and re-educate your gait pattern after a TKA or PKA.
• Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): Physiotherapy rehabilitation after total or partial hip replacement surgery, aimed at restoring mobility, strength, balance, and improving your gait pattern, allowing you to perform daily activities safely and effectively.
• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): Targeted physiotherapy to help you recover from operatively treated fractures, addressing common issues like joint stiffness, muscle weakness, swelling, pain, and functional limitations in the affected limb.

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. Laurie 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.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Improving the mobility and health of your nervous system to reduce pain, restore sensation, and enhance overall function.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Hands-on treatment focusing on your body's soft tissues to restore pliability, reduce discomfort, and optimize movement quality.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Helping you understand how your posture impacts your musculoskeletal health and providing you with tools for lasting postural improvement and pain relief.
• 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.

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

• Patients struggling with needing help to get moving again after a long period of illness or inactivity can find dedicated and compassionate support from Laurie. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving a smoother and stronger postpartum recovery, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as handling their job that involves frequent standing, walking, or bending.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of trouble performing repetitive tasks at work without pain? Laurie works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of feeling empowered to take control of their physical health journey. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as maintaining an upright posture while working on their computer for hours.
• For those whose hip pain when I walk, climb stairs, or try to sleep on my side has made participating in light recreational activities like bowling or mini-golf seem like a distant memory, Laurie's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward feeling more stable and confident on their feet, especially on uneven surfaces. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to participating in light recreational activities like bowling or mini-golf with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• Are you finding that that burning pain between my shoulder blades from too much computer work stops you from enjoying performing self-care tasks like hair washing or reaching their back? Laurie is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve a better understanding of ergonomics for their work and home environment through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.

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

Laurie practices at ProActive Health, situated in the Bronte West neighborhood of Oakville. The clinic is conveniently located near Ford Motor Company Canadian HQ & Plant and is accessible via Oakville Transit. Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

The primary goal of physiotherapy is generally to reduce pain and improve function, not to cause significant or lasting pain. Some assessment techniques or specific treatments (like deep soft tissue work, joint mobilization, or certain exercises) might cause mild, temporary discomfort or soreness, especially if the tissues being treated are sensitive, inflamed, or very stiff. However, your Physiotherapist will always work within your tolerance levels, communicate clearly about what to expect, and encourage open feedback. If you experience notable or unacceptable pain during treatment, please inform your therapist immediately so adjustments can be made to ensure your comfort.

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.

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

In Ontario, you can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a doctor's referral. This is known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement of physiotherapy services. It is strongly recommended that you check with your insurance provider before your first appointment to understand their specific requirements.

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

OHIP generally does NOT cover physiotherapy services provided in private outpatient clinics. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available in specific situations, such as post-hospitalization for certain conditions, for children/youth, seniors, or through Community Physiotherapy Clinics/Family Health Teams. Eligibility criteria are strict, and there may be waitlists. Most people will need to rely on their private or extended health insurance plan for coverage of physiotherapy services in private clinics. It is essential to check your private insurance policy for details on coverage.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes, absolutely! Physiotherapy plays a significant role in injury prevention and managing recurring pain. Your Physiotherapist can identify underlying risk factors such as muscle imbalances, poor movement patterns, postural issues, or biomechanical inefficiencies. By addressing these through targeted exercises, education on proper body mechanics, ergonomic advice, and activity modification, physiotherapy can help reduce your risk of initial injury, prevent re-injury, and manage chronic conditions more effectively, keeping you active and healthy.

ProActive Health
785 Pacific Road, Unit 7
Oakville, ON, L6L 6M3

Phone: (905) 338-2898

Laurie Margaret McLaughlin 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: XXX20

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=18d49f95-8902-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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