Leah De Corte – Physiotherapist | London, ON

Leah Decorte is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Pediatric Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at Thames Valley Children's Centre in London, ON, Leah Decorte is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Leah Decorte's role involves providing specialized physiotherapy services for infants, children, and adolescents to address developmental delays, congenital conditions (like torticollis), orthopedic injuries, neurological conditions, and promote optimal motor function and participation.

Leah Decorte completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Western University (Graduating Class of 2019). With clinical experience, Leah Decorte is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Leah Decorte has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Pediatric Physiotherapy.

Leah Decorte employs a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals; promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the London community through proactive physiotherapy. Leah Decorte offers consultations in English.

Leah De Corte provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Pediatric

• Congenital Muscular Torticollis / Plagiocephaly (Flat Head Syndrome): A condition often present at or shortly after birth, where a baby's neck muscle (typically the sternocleidomastoid) is tight or shortened, causing the head to tilt to one side and rotate to the opposite side. Often associated with plagiocephaly (asymmetrical head shape or 'flat head syndrome') due to preferential head positioning.
• Toe Walking (Idiopathic / Habitual): Helping children develop a more typical and efficient walking pattern by addressing the factors contributing to persistent toe walking.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Lower back issues that restrict your ability to bend, lift, sit for long periods, or enjoy your usual activities without discomfort.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: Damage or tearing of muscle fibers, ranging from a mild overstretch (Grade 1 strain) to a partial or complete rupture (Grade 2 or 3 tear), typically caused by sudden forceful contraction, excessive stretch, or direct trauma.

Neurological

• Stroke (CVA) Rehabilitation: Comprehensive neurological rehabilitation provided by a Neuro Physiotherapist to help individuals regain independence, maximize their recovery potential, and adapt to any residual impairments following a stroke.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) / Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Rehabilitation: Comprehensive neurorehabilitation provided by a Physiotherapist to support functional recovery, improve independence in daily activities, and facilitate community reintegration after a head injury.
• Functional Neurological Disorders (FND) - Movement Retraining: A movement-based therapy approach, often guided by principles of motor learning and de-emphasis on presumed damage, to help individuals with FND regain voluntary control over their physical symptoms and improve confidence in their movements.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Symptom Management & Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy support for the physical challenges of Multiple Sclerosis, focusing on maximizing mobility, safety, and participation in daily life.

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. Leah Decorte can assess your needs.

• Sports Performance Enhancement & Injury Prevention: Movement analysis, strength and conditioning advice, and targeted exercises designed by your Physiotherapist to enhance your athletic performance, improve biomechanics, optimize movement efficiency, and reduce your risk of sports-related injuries.
• Sports Injury Rehabilitation & Management: Specialized and progressive physiotherapy care for athletes of all levels, focusing on accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, sport-specific exercise, and safe, timely return-to-sport protocols.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Hands-on treatment focusing on your body's soft tissues to restore pliability, reduce discomfort, and optimize movement quality.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Application of precise, passive movements to joints to decrease stiffness, relieve pain, and facilitate easier, more comfortable movement.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Improving the mobility and health of your nervous system to reduce pain, restore sensation, and enhance overall function.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Using controlled isometric and isotonic muscle contractions, as directed by your Physiotherapist, to address joint restrictions and muscle imbalances effectively.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Leah Decorte, 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 Thames Valley Children's Centre, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Leah Decorte frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Leah Decorte frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of my child walking on their toes most of the time. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets improved breathing mechanics and capacity through postural correction and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like participating in light recreational activities like bowling or mini-golf.
• Don't let that burning pain between my shoulder blades from too much computer work dictate what you can and cannot do. Leah Decorte offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at getting their strength back after surgery or a period of inactivity, helping you reclaim spending hours gardening comfortably, without subsequent back or knee strain and enjoy a more functional life.
• Many individuals seek help from Leah Decorte, their physiotherapist, when shoulder pain that makes simple things like lifting my arm or reaching overhead difficult starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve feeling more positive, capable, and optimistic about their physical health, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like playing in their competitive volleyball league again.
• The path to recovery from trouble with everyday tasks because of pain or weakness in my hands or grip and achieving noticeable strength gains in their limbs, supporting more demanding tasks for standing for longer periods, for example, while cooking or at an event often starts with expert guidance. Leah Decorte, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.

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

Leah Decorte practices at Thames Valley Children's Centre, situated in the Woodfield, Wortley Village neighborhood of London. The clinic is conveniently located near Various Plazas North and South and is accessible via London Transit Commission (LTC). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial and integral 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 should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

The first physiotherapy session is primarily an in-depth assessment. Expect to spend time talking with your Physiotherapist about your specific issue, its history, and your overall health background. Your therapist will then perform various physical tests to assess your movement, strength, and any areas of concern. The main goal of this first visit is to understand your condition fully so that a tailored and effective treatment plan can be developed collaboratively with you. You might also receive your first set of home exercises or some initial hands-on care to start the healing process.

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, while a referral isn't legally required to see a Physiotherapist, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement. It is strongly recommended that you check with your insurance provider to confirm their specific requirements before your first appointment.

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.

Is there parking available at or near Thames Valley Children's Centre?

Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby. Please check for signage upon arrival.

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.

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.

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 recommended that you check your private insurance coverage for physiotherapy services in private clinics.

Thames Valley Children's Centre
779 Baseline Rd. East
London, ON, N6C 5Y6

Phone: (519) 685-8700

Leah De Corte 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: XXX83

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=fc292c4e-da92-e911-a981-000d3af43d1a

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