Linda A. Ferraro – Physiotherapist | St. Catharines, ON

Linda A. Ferraro is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Hotel Dieu Shaver Health and Rehabilitation Centre in St. Catharines, ON, Linda Ferraro is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Linda Ferraro's focus is 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. Linda Ferraro serves adults.

Linda A. Ferraro completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Queen's University (Graduating Class of 1990). With extensive clinical experience, Linda Ferraro is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Linda Ferraro has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Linda Ferraro empowers patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Linda Ferraro adopts a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Linda Ferraro offers consultations in English.

Linda A. Ferraro provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Addressing the inflammation, pain, and restricted movement associated with stenosing tenosynovitis of the finger or thumb.
• 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.

Arthritis

• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Physiotherapy for ankylosing spondylitis focuses on maintaining spinal mobility and flexibility (especially extension), improving posture, strengthening core and back muscles, managing pain, and providing education on self-management and regular exercise.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Physiotherapy to address residual joint stiffness, pain, swelling, and functional loss after an acute gout attack has subsided, or to help manage musculoskeletal impairments and tophi-related issues associated with chronic gout, always in conjunction with appropriate medical management for urate control.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: An autoimmune condition causing chronic inflammation, pain, stiffness, swelling, and potential deformity in multiple joints, often symmetrically. Physiotherapy aims to manage pain, maintain joint function and mobility, improve strength and endurance, provide joint protection strategies, and support self-management.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): An inflammatory arthritis that can affect some people with psoriasis (a skin condition), causing joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and sometimes affecting tendons (enthesitis) and ligaments. Can affect small or large joints, often asymmetrically, and sometimes the spine.

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. Linda Ferraro can assess your needs.

• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Application of skilled soft tissue techniques to manage pain, stiffness, and improve function in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: An in-depth examination to fully understand your specific condition, allowing your Physiotherapist to create an effective and personalized rehabilitation plan.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Hands-on physiotherapy focused on mobilizing restricted joints and soft tissues to promote healing, restore normal biomechanics, and alleviate pain.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Targeted therapy to alleviate symptoms such as shooting pain, pins and needles, or weakness arising from neural tension or entrapment.
• 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.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Teaching you essential strategies and exercises to manage your symptoms independently, accelerate recovery, and prevent future problems.

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

• Many patients have found lasting relief from wrist pain and tingling, possibly from carpal tunnel syndrome, especially at night and achieved a renewed sense of vitality and enthusiasm for daily activities under the skilled care of Linda Ferraro. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as dressing myself independently and without difficulty, including shoes and socks with a new lease on life.
• Patients struggling with a 'frozen shoulder' feeling, where my shoulder feels completely stuck can find dedicated and compassionate support from Linda Ferraro. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving a significantly reduced risk of falling, enhancing safety and independence, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as participating in light recreational activities like bowling or mini-golf.
• When widespread muscle pain and fatigue that my doctor thinks might be fibromyalgia is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing operating machinery or tools safely and efficiently at work, physiotherapy with Linda Ferraro can help you work towards restored joint function, leading to smoother and more coordinated movements. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• Don't let trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury dictate what you can and cannot do. Linda Ferraro offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at a noticeable reduction in daily discomfort, making everyday tasks easier and more enjoyable, helping you reclaim resuming their weightlifting routine at the gym safely and enjoy a more functional life.

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

Linda Ferraro practices at Hotel Dieu Shaver Health and Rehabilitation Centre, situated in the Merritton, Thorold South (Brock University Area) neighborhood of St. Catharines. The clinic is conveniently located near Meridian Centre (Arena) and is accessible via Niagara Region Transit (NRT). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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.

What is Hotel Dieu Shaver Health and Rehabilitation Centre'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 or missed appointments without sufficient notice. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your appointment.

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 and verify your specific eligibility for any public coverage directly with OHIP.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at Hotel Dieu Shaver Health and Rehabilitation Centre 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, joint problems (such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery), sports injuries, and nerve pain. We also have therapists with specialized skills in areas like Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and general physiotherapy. Our treatments often involve Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques, Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment, and patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Initial assessment appointments are generally longer to allow for a thorough evaluation and discussion, typically lasting between 45 to 60 minutes. Subsequent follow-up treatment sessions are usually shorter, often ranging from 30 to 45 minutes. However, the duration can vary depending on your specific needs, the complexity of your condition, the type of treatment being provided, and the treatment plan designed by your Physiotherapist.

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 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.

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

Patients in ON can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a physician's referral (direct access). However, some private/extended health insurance plans require a referral for reimbursement. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

Hotel Dieu Shaver Health and Rehabilitation Centre
541 Glenridge Ave.
St. Catharines, ON, L2T 4C2

Phone: (905) 685-1381

Linda A. Ferraro 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: XXX80

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=72344a9c-8a02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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