Leigh J. Gross – Physiotherapist | Barrie, ON

Leigh J. Gross is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre in Barrie, ON, Leigh is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Leigh provides comprehensive assessment and treatment for a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal injuries, pain conditions, and movement dysfunctions to help patients of all ages restore function, manage pain, and improve their quality of life. Leigh serves a diverse range of patients, tailoring treatment plans to meet individual needs and goals.

Leigh J. Gross completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Western University (Graduating Class of 1991). With extensive clinical experience, Leigh is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Leigh has a particular interest and further training in areas such as General Physiotherapy Practice and general physiotherapy.

Leigh's practice philosophy centers on empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Leigh promotes preventative care and long-term wellness for the Barrie community through proactive physiotherapy and adopts a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Leigh offers consultations in English.

Leigh J. Gross provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Sports Injury

• Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome): An overuse injury affecting the lower leg, common in athletes, dancers, and military recruits, characterized by diffuse pain along the tibia.
• Stress Fractures (Activity-Related - Conservative Management/Rehab): Tiny cracks or severe bruising within a bone caused by repetitive force, overuse, or cumulative stress, common in weight-bearing bones of the lower leg (tibia, fibula), foot (metatarsals, navicular), or hip in athletes involved in high-impact sports.
• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee / Anterior Knee Pain): A common overuse injury in active individuals and athletes, sometimes referred to as 'runner's knee' or 'anterior knee pain', often related to biomechanical issues in how the kneecap tracks.
• Ligament Sprains (e.g., ACL, MCL, PCL, Ankle Ligaments): Common joint injuries in athletes affecting stability, causing immediate pain, swelling, bruising, and functional loss, often requiring a structured rehabilitation program.

Back Neck Pain

• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Pain, pins and needles, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg resulting from irritation or compression of a spinal nerve, often managed effectively with physiotherapy techniques like McKenzie method or neural mobilization.
• 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.

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. Leigh can assess your needs.

• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Education and instruction on effective and safe stretching techniques to help you maintain or improve your body's flexibility and joint mobility.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: A progressive program designed to build a strong and stable core, improving your body's foundation for all movements and reducing strain on other structures.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Educating you about your diagnosis, expected recovery timeline (prognosis), and the reasons behind your treatment plan to encourage active participation in your healing.
• 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.
• 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.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: A progressive approach to rebuilding your physical condition, allowing for a safe return to daily activities, work demands, and hobbies you enjoy.

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

• Discover how physiotherapy with Leigh can help you move beyond my baby/child having trouble with their motor skills, like delayed rolling, sitting or walking. The focus is on improved core stability and control, leading to better posture and reduced strain, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as actively participating in family outings and vacations without holding others back.
• With Leigh's help, managing feeling like my joints are just 'wearing out' and getting harder to move to achieve a renewed sense of vitality and enthusiasm for daily activities becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like getting in and out of the car smoothly and without wincing.
• Many individuals seek help from Leigh, their physiotherapist, when breathing difficulties and shortness of breath with COPD or asthma, especially during activity starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve enhanced pelvic floor function and control (for relevant conditions), empowering them to joyfully return to activities like simply being able to get through a workday without constant pain interruptions.
• It's truly rewarding for Leigh to witness patients conquer widespread muscle pain and fatigue that my doctor thinks might be fibromyalgia and experience a greater sense of body confidence and trust in their physical abilities. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in attending and enjoying their children's or grandchildren's sporting events again.

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

Leigh practices at Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, located in the Downtown Barrie, East Bayfield neighborhood of Barrie. The clinic is conveniently located near Georgian College and is accessible via Barrie Transit. Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

What are Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre's operating hours?

Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and some practitioners offer Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. However, hours can vary by practitioner and day, so please call our office at (705) 728-9802 or check our website/online booking portal for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

It's not uncommon to experience some temporary soreness or a mild increase in symptoms after certain physiotherapy treatments, especially in the initial stages or if you're starting new exercises. This usually subsides within 24-48 hours. However, if you experience a significant or sharp increase in pain, new or worsening neurological symptoms (like numbness, tingling, or weakness), or if your soreness lasts longer than expected, it's important to contact Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

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

Patients in Ontario can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a physician's referral (this is known as direct access). However, some private/extended health insurance plans require a referral for reimbursement of physiotherapy services. Check your individual insurance policy before your first appointment.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy involves skilled, hands-on treatments performed by your Physiotherapist as part of your overall physiotherapy plan. These techniques are designed to assess and treat your joints, muscles, and nerves to decrease pain and improve your mobility and function. Examples include specific joint mobilizations to improve movement, soft tissue release techniques to address muscle tightness or scar tissue, and sometimes manipulations (adjustments) if indicated and appropriate for your condition and your therapist's qualifications.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

While some physiotherapy techniques might feel uncomfortable or cause a temporary increase in soreness (similar to muscle soreness after a new workout), especially when working on stiff joints or tight muscles, it should not be excessively or intolerably painful. Your Physiotherapist will discuss what sensations you might expect with different treatments and will always aim to adjust the intensity and techniques to ensure you are as comfortable as possible while still achieving therapeutic benefits. Constant communication about your comfort level is very important.

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.

How can I book an appointment at Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (705) 728-9802 during our business hours. Our friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable appointment time with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

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. Check your private insurance for private clinic coverage.

Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre
201 Georgian Dr.
Barrie, ON, L4M 6M2

Phone: (705) 728-9802

Leigh J. Gross 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: XXX60

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=17706cc0-8a02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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