Lourdes Race – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Lourdes Race is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Southlake Regional Health Center's Restorative Care Unit in Toronto, ON, Lourdes is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Lourdes 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. Lourdes serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Lourdes Race completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Fatima College of Physical Therapy (Graduating Class of 1997). With extensive clinical experience, Lourdes is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Lourdes has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Lourdes employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Lourdes empowers patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Lourdes maintains a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Lourdes Race offers consultations in English, Tagalog.

Lourdes Race provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Post Surgical

• 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-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): A structured physiotherapy plan to help you recover full function, independence, and confidence in your new hip after replacement surgery.

Arthritis

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Tailored exercise programs (including range of motion, strengthening, and low-impact aerobic exercises), pain relief modalities, and education on joint protection techniques and energy conservation for individuals with RA or similar conditions.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Exercises and advice to manage the impact of gout on your joints, improve mobility, and reduce the likelihood of long-term joint damage.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Supportive physiotherapy for individuals with psoriatic arthritis, focusing on managing joint pain and swelling, maintaining range of motion and strength, improving function, and providing advice on activity modification and joint protection.

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. Lourdes can assess your needs.

• 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.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Education on optimal body mechanics and corrective strategies to improve your posture during daily activities, work, and recreation.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Specialized manual techniques aimed at restoring normal movement and function to peripheral nerves that may be compressed, adhered, or under tension.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A thorough evaluation by your Physiotherapist to accurately diagnose movement dysfunctions, injuries, and the underlying sources of your pain.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Manual treatments specifically designed to improve joint mechanics, alleviate discomfort, reduce stiffness, and enhance your range of motion in the spine or limbs.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Application of skilled soft tissue techniques to manage pain, stiffness, and improve function in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Lourdes, 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 Southlake Regional Health Center's Restorative Care Unit, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Lourdes frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Living with hip pain when I walk, climb stairs, or try to sleep on my side doesn't have to be your norm. Lourdes applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards reduced swelling and inflammation in injured areas, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty.
• If trouble performing repetitive tasks at work without pain is preventing you from fully enjoying using garden tools effectively and without pain, Lourdes offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining greater confidence when walking, standing, or navigating challenging environments, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• Patients struggling with my infant having a tilted head or a flat spot on their head (torticollis/plagiocephaly) can find dedicated and compassionate support from Lourdes. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving being active again without the constant worry of pain or re-injury, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as going on birdwatching outings in various terrains.
• Many individuals seek help from Lourdes, their physiotherapist, when my baby/child having trouble with their motor skills, like delayed rolling, sitting or walking starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve improved overall mobility, making it easier to navigate their home and community, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like returning to dancing, whether it's ballet, salsa, or just for fun.

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

Lourdes practices at Southlake Regional Health Center's Restorative Care Unit, situated in the Downsview Northwest (Jane and Finch) neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near St. Lawrence Market and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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.

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 recommended to check your private insurance for coverage of private clinic physiotherapy services.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

The first physiotherapy session is primarily an in-depth assessment. Expect to spend time talking with your Physiotherapist about your specific issue, its history, and your overall health background. Your therapist will then perform various physical tests to assess your movement, strength, and any areas of concern. The main goal of this first visit is to understand your condition fully so that a tailored and effective treatment plan can be developed collaboratively with you. You might also receive your first set of home exercises or some initial hands-on care to start the healing process.

Does Southlake Regional Health Center's Restorative Care Unit offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

While we do not offer direct billing at this time, we provide detailed official receipts that you can easily submit to your insurer for reimbursement according to your plan. Please bring your insurance card and information to your appointment. Always confirm your specific coverage details, including any annual maximums, per-visit limits, or deductible requirements, directly with your insurance provider, as plans vary significantly. You are responsible for any portion not covered by your insurance.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, in almost all cases, you will receive a customized home exercise program. These exercises are carefully chosen by your Physiotherapist to specifically target your issues and help you achieve your functional goals faster and more effectively. Performing them as recommended is very important for your progress and for maintaining the improvements you make during your clinic visits.

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.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at Southlake Regional Health Center's Restorative Care Unit treat?

Our Physiotherapists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. This includes, but is not limited to, back and neck pain, joint problems (arthritis or post-surgical recovery), and sports injuries. We also have therapists with specialized skills in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy. Our treatments often involve manual therapy, exercise prescription, and patient education.

I have private health insurance. How does that work with physiotherapy payments?

Many private health insurance plans offer full or partial coverage for registered physiotherapy services. Contact your insurance provider before your first appointment to understand your plan's specifics. Key things to check are: your annual maximum for physiotherapy, any per-visit limits or co-payments, whether a doctor's referral is required for reimbursement, and if your plan allows for direct billing. If direct billing is possible, we can bill your insurer directly for the covered portion. You would be responsible for any co-payment or remaining balance. If direct billing is not possible, we will provide an official receipt for your insurer. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your first appointment.

Southlake Regional Health Center's Restorative Care Unit
2111, Finch Avenue West, North York
Toronto, ON, M3N 1N1

Phone: (416) 744-2500

Lourdes Race 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: XXX25

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=a6d73d97-9002-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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