Lorraine Elizabeth Spekkens – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Lorraine Elizabeth Spekkens is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at Balance Physiotherapy in Toronto, ON, Lorraine is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Lorraine's approach focuses on assisting individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life after neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. Lorraine also addresses 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. Lorraine serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Lorraine Elizabeth Spekkens completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Queen's University (Graduating Class of 1995). With extensive clinical experience, Lorraine is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Lorraine has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and Neurological Physiotherapy.

Lorraine's practice philosophy centers on a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Toronto community through proactive physiotherapy; and a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Lorraine offers consultations in English, French.

Lorraine Elizabeth Spekkens provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Post Surgical

• Post-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): The crucial rehabilitation phase following total or partial knee replacement surgery, with physiotherapy focusing on restoring range of motion, building strength, improving balance, managing pain and swelling, and enabling functional mobility (e.g., walking, stairs, getting in/out of a car).
• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): Comprehensive shoulder rehabilitation after surgical intervention, following surgeon-specific protocols, to ensure optimal healing, manage pain and swelling, and restore your arm's functional capacity.
• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: Specialized physiotherapy following knee ligament reconstruction surgery to ensure a successful recovery, minimize complications (like stiffness or muscle atrophy), and facilitate a safe and confident return to activity and sport, preventing re-injury.

Joint Pain

• 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.
• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A chronic condition causing joint discomfort, stiffness (especially in the morning or after inactivity), and impacting your ability to perform daily activities, walk, or engage in hobbies.

Peripheral Nerve

• Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic, Chemotherapy-Induced, Idiopathic): Physiotherapy focuses on improving balance, strength, sensation (where possible), reducing fall risk, managing pain, and providing education on foot care (especially for diabetic neuropathy) and adaptive strategies.
• Nerve Entrapments / Compressions (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Sciatica, Meralgia Paresthetica): Physiotherapy for common nerve compression syndromes, including Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (wrist), Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (neck/shoulder), Sciatica (low back/buttock), or Meralgia Paresthetica (outer thigh). Treatment often includes manual therapy, nerve gliding exercises (neural mobilization), postural correction, ergonomic advice, and activity modification.

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. Lorraine can assess your needs.

• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Developing muscular strength and endurance to aid in injury recovery, support affected joints, improve biomechanics, and enhance athletic performance or demanding physical tasks.
• 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.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Guided stretching routines and flexibility exercises prescribed by your Physiotherapist, aimed at improving your range of motion, reducing muscle tightness or stiffness, and enhancing overall movement quality.
• Tele-Rehabilitation / Virtual Physiotherapy Consultations: Receiving personalized physiotherapy care online through secure and interactive video sessions with your qualified Physiotherapist, including real-time exercise correction and tailored advice.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Customized exercise plans designed to help you recover from injury, manage chronic conditions, improve physical performance, and achieve your functional goals safely and effectively.
• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Management & Rehabilitation: Baseline concussion testing (if offered by the clinic/practitioner) and evidence-based post-injury management to ensure a safe and effective recovery from mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI).

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

• For those whose widespread muscle pain and fatigue that my doctor thinks might be fibromyalgia has made performing tasks requiring fine motor skills and dexterity with ease seem like a distant memory, Lorraine's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward a smoother and stronger postpartum recovery. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to performing tasks requiring fine motor skills and dexterity with ease with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• Physiotherapy with Lorraine can be a transformative turning point for those affected by trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury. The shared goal is achieving feeling a substantial improvement in their mobility and range of motion for easier movement, paving the way for you to enjoy pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty and a more active, vibrant life.
• The journey to feeling significantly stronger and more capable in their physical abilities when faced with persistent recovering from surgery to my hand or wrist is made smoother and more effective with Lorraine's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like getting on and off the floor with ease.
• The path to recovery from recurrent dislocations or a feeling of instability in my shoulder or knee and achieving improved performance in work-related physical demands for taking long photography walks to capture nature or cityscapes often starts with expert guidance. Lorraine, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.

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

Lorraine practices at Balance Physiotherapy, located in the Don Mills North neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near the CN Tower and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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 manual therapy in physiotherapy?

In physiotherapy, manual therapy encompasses a range of 'hands-on' interventions. Your Physiotherapist may use these techniques to help reduce your pain, increase joint movement, relax tight muscles, or improve the mobility of your nerves. Common approaches include joint glides, sustained pressures, specific soft tissue massage, and, when indicated, joint manipulations. It's a key part of helping your body move better.

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

In Ontario, you typically do not need a doctor's referral to see a physiotherapist. This is known as "direct access." However, while a referral isn't legally required for an appointment, some extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement. It's crucial to check your insurance policy's specific requirements before your first appointment to avoid unexpected costs.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Absolutely! Home exercises are a vital part of your rehabilitation journey and empower you to take an active role in your recovery process. Your Physiotherapist will carefully select and teach you exercises specific to your needs. These exercises help to reinforce what's done in the clinic, manage your condition effectively, and ensure you continue progressing towards your goals even when you're not in a session.

Is physiotherapy covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Physiotherapy services in private clinics are generally not covered by OHIP. While publicly funded physiotherapy is available through certain programs (e.g., post-hospitalization for specific conditions, for children/youth, seniors, or via Community Physiotherapy Clinics/Family Health Teams), eligibility criteria are strict, and waitlists may exist. To determine coverage, contact OHIP directly. Most individuals will need to rely on their private or extended health insurance for coverage of physiotherapy services in private clinics. Always check your private insurance plan details for specific coverage information.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

The number of physiotherapy sessions required varies greatly from person to person. It depends on several factors, including the nature and severity of your condition, how long you've had the issue (acute vs. chronic), your individual treatment goals, your body's unique response to therapy, and how consistently you are able to follow your prescribed home exercise program and self-management advice. Your Physiotherapist will discuss a proposed treatment frequency and estimated duration after your initial assessment and will continually re-evaluate your progress with you.

Balance Physiotherapy
8-12 Upjohn Road
Toronto, ON, M3B 2V9

Phone: (416) 386-0384

Lorraine Elizabeth Spekkens 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: XXX02

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=c9f019a6-8b02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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