Leah Marie Elaine Skinner is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Thames Valley Children's Centre in London, ON, Leah is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Leah focuses on addressing 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. Leah serves infants, children, and adolescents.
Leah Marie Elaine Skinner completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 2010). With extensive clinical experience, Leah is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Leah has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.
Leah's practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the London community through proactive physiotherapy; a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Leah offers consultations in English.
Leah Marie Elaine Skinner provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:
Joint Pain
- Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Commonly known as 'wear-and-tear' arthritis, this condition affects various joints, often worsening with age, overuse, or previous injury, and can significantly impact daily function.
- Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Inflammation (tendinitis) or, more commonly, degeneration (tendinosis/tendinopathy) of tendons, leading to localized pain that typically worsens with activity or loading of the tendon.
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): Addressing the inflammation, pain, and restricted movement associated with stenosing tenosynovitis of the finger or thumb.
Common Musculoskeletal
- Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Aching, sharp, or persistent pain located in the lower back, which may sometimes extend into the buttocks or legs, limiting your comfort.
- Neck Pain and Stiffness: Aching, soreness, or sharp pain experienced in the neck, which may include muscle spasms, trigger points, or reduced flexibility.
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 can assess your needs.
- Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: Utilizing traction techniques to create space within the spine, reduce nerve irritation, improve disc hydration, and alleviate back or neck pain.
- Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Ultrasound therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, often used to prepare tissues for manual therapy or exercise, or to manage acute and chronic soft tissue injuries.
- 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.
- 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.
- Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Providing clear guidance on self-care techniques, activity modifications, and beneficial lifestyle adjustments for long-term well-being and injury prevention.
- Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: The use of specific electrical stimulation devices (IFC or TENS) by your Physiotherapist to provide pain relief, reduce muscle spasm, decrease swelling, or promote muscle activation and re-education.
Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Leah, 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 frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- With Leah's help, managing that burning pain between my shoulder blades from too much computer work to achieve feeling a substantial improvement in their mobility and range of motion for easier movement becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like using garden tools effectively and without pain.
- When difficulty moving one side of my body or walking easily after a stroke is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing working on detailed woodworking projects in their shop without hand pain, physiotherapy with Leah can help you work towards being active again without the constant worry of pain or re-injury. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
- Dealing with the ongoing challenges of that 'pins and needles' feeling that won't go away? Leah works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of restored joint function, leading to smoother and more coordinated movements. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as handling their job that involves frequent standing, walking, or bending.
- Leah believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If an awkward gait or limping when I walk is hindering your ability to carrying a backpack or shoulder bag comfortably, a personalized plan focusing on improved circulation and tissue healing can make all the difference.
Your personalized physiotherapy plan, developed with Leah, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.
Leah practices at Thames Valley Children's Centre, situated in the Woodfield, Wortley Village neighborhood of London. The clinic is conveniently located near White Oaks Mall and is accessible via London Transit Commission (LTC). 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 waitlists may apply. It is strongly recommended to check your private insurance coverage for physiotherapy services in private clinics.
- 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 (direct access). However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement. Always check your insurance policy before your appointment.
- Is there parking available at or near Thames Valley Children's Centre?
- Ample free parking is available for patients directly in front of and beside the building. Look for the designated patient spots.
- 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.
- Does Thames Valley Children's Centre offer direct billing to private insurance companies?
- Please contact the clinic directly to inquire about direct billing options with your specific insurance provider.
- Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?
- It's helpful to bring your health card, any referral letters from other healthcare providers if you were referred, and any reports or images from relevant medical tests (X-rays, MRIs, etc.) related to your condition. If you have private insurance coverage for physiotherapy, please bring your insurance card or policy details for billing purposes. Comfortable attire that allows for easy movement during the assessment is also recommended.
- What is Thames Valley Children's Centre's appointment cancellation policy?
- We kindly request at least 24 hours' notice for cancellations or rescheduling. A fee may be charged for late cancellations or missed appointments. Please contact the clinic as soon as possible if you need to change your appointment.
- What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?
- Wear or bring clothing that allows unrestricted movement and easy access for your physiotherapist to examine the body part being assessed or treated. For example, shorts for knee problems or a sleeveless top for shoulder issues.
Thames Valley Children's Centre
779 Baseline Rd. East
London, ON, N6C 5Y6
Phone: (519) 685-8700
Leah Marie Elaine Skinner 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: XXX56
Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=e9f44261-9002-e811-8136-480fcfeae051
Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.