Lori Dale Smith – Physiotherapist | Timmins, ON

Lori Dale Smith is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Geriatric Physiotherapy Focus / Seniors' Health). Practicing at Timmins & District Hospital in Timmins, ON, Lori is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Lori focuses on the unique health needs of older adults, aiming to improve and maintain mobility, strength, balance, manage age-related conditions like arthritis or osteoporosis, reduce fall risk, and enhance overall quality of life and independence. Lori serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Lori Dale Smith completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Queen's University (Graduating Class of 1995). With extensive clinical experience, Lori is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Lori has a particular interest and further training in Geriatric Physiotherapy / Seniors' Health.

Lori's practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Timmins community through proactive physiotherapy. Lori employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Lori utilizes a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Lori Dale Smith offers consultations in English, French.

Lori Dale Smith provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Geriatric

• Mobility Issues & Gait Disturbances in Seniors: Physiotherapy aimed at improving safe and efficient movement, gait quality (e.g., step length, speed, pattern), balance, and confidence in mobility for seniors. May include assessment and prescription of appropriate mobility aids (e.g., cane, walker).
• Age-Related Deconditioning / Frailty / Sarcopenia Management: Physiotherapy programs designed to address physical decline in older adults, focusing on rebuilding strength (resistance exercise), improving endurance (aerobic exercise), enhancing balance, and maintaining or improving functional independence.

Post Surgical

• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): Restoring spinal function, core stability, and body mechanics post-operatively, ensuring a safe progression back to work, hobbies, and an active lifestyle.
• 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.

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. Lori can assess your needs.

• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A thorough evaluation by your Physiotherapist to accurately diagnose movement dysfunctions, injuries, and the underlying sources of your pain.
• Balance Training & Falls Prevention Programs: Specific training programs to enhance your sense of body position, improve your reaction times to unexpected balance disturbances, and build confidence in your ability to move safely in various environments.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Empowering you with a clear understanding of your condition, its causes, and practical tools for effective self-management and lasting relief.
• 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.
• Fibromyalgia & Widespread Pain Management: Helping you manage fibromyalgia symptoms through targeted exercise, education on pain mechanisms, and self-care strategies to improve daily function and overall quality of life.
• Chronic & Persistent Pain Management Programs: A holistic and active approach to managing long-standing pain, empowering you with tools and knowledge for better daily living, increased activity tolerance, and improved mood.

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

• Tired of feeling generally stiff, achy, and less mobile than I used to be interfering with getting back to golfing 18 holes without their back acting up? Lori uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve enhanced ability to participate in social and community events and regain your freedom of movement.
• Patients struggling with facial weakness or drooping on one side (like Bell's Palsy) can find dedicated and compassionate support from Lori. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving successfully avoiding or delaying the need for more invasive treatments or surgery, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as cycling longer distances with their cycling club.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Lori can help you move beyond needing help to get moving again after a long period of illness or inactivity. The focus is on getting back to enjoying life's simple pleasures without physical limitations, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as resuming their weightlifting routine at the gym safely.
• Struggling with the frustration of an old ankle sprain that never seems to fully heal and still feels weak? Lori develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving restoring normal movement patterns essential for everyday tasks. This is key to helping you get back to doing dancing the night away at social events and family celebrations with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.

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

Lori practices at Timmins & District Hospital, situated in a physiotherapy clinic in the central Timmins neighborhood of Timmins. The clinic is conveniently located near nearby parks and community recreation facilities and is accessible via local public transit routes. Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Essentially, physiotherapy helps you get moving and stay moving effectively and comfortably. Whether you're dealing with an acute injury, chronic pain, post-surgical recovery, or a condition affecting your physical abilities, your Physiotherapist will work with you. They'll use their expertise in body mechanics, rehabilitation, and pain management to create a personalized treatment plan involving exercises, hands-on techniques, and practical advice to help you achieve your functional goals and live a more active, fulfilling life.

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.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

It's difficult to say exactly how many sessions you'll need without a thorough assessment, as everyone's situation and recovery path is unique. Some acute conditions might resolve in just a few sessions, while more chronic, complex, or significant issues may require a longer period of care to achieve lasting results. Your Physiotherapist will provide an estimated treatment timeline and plan after your first visit, and this will be revisited as your treatment progresses.

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.

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 advised to check your private insurance for private clinic coverage.

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.

How can I book an appointment at Timmins & District Hospital?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (705) 267-2131 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.

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.

Timmins & District Hospital
700 Ross Ave. E.
Timmins, ON, P4N 8P2

Phone: (705) 267-2131

Lori Dale Smith 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: XXX72

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=1993c081-8b02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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