Madison Joelle Ames – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Madison Joelle Ames is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at North York General Hospital in Toronto, ON, Madison Ames is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Madison Ames'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. Madison Ames serves a diverse patient population, with a particular interest in providing care for seniors.

Madison Joelle Ames completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Queen's University (Graduating Class of 2023). With valuable clinical experience gained since graduation, Madison Ames is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Madison Ames has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Madison Ames employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. This collaborative approach ensures Madison Ames works closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Madison Ames offers consultations in English.

Madison Joelle Ames provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Common Musculoskeletal

• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Discomfort, limited range of motion, and persistent tension in the cervical spine (neck), often related to posture, an injury, stress, or sleeping position.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: A 'rolled' or twisted ankle with subsequent swelling, tenderness, and difficulty putting your full weight on the foot.

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): Focused physiotherapy care for complex hand and wrist problems, often involving custom splinting or orthosis fabrication, manual therapy (joint and soft tissue mobilization), specific exercises to restore dexterity, strength, and range of motion, scar management, and sensory re-education.

Back Neck Pain

• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Sharp, shooting, electric-like, or burning pain that travels along the path of a nerve due to issues with intervertebral discs or other spinal structures.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Often age-related changes leading to pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots, causing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs with walking (neurogenic claudication in lumbar stenosis) or in the arms/hands (cervical stenosis).

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. Madison Ames can assess your needs.

• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Hands-on treatment focusing on your body's soft tissues to restore pliability, reduce discomfort, and optimize movement quality.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Improving the mobility and health of your nervous system to reduce pain, restore sensation, and enhance overall function.
• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: A specialized physiotherapy treatment that uses a traction table or manual techniques to gently decompress spinal structures, relieve pressure, and promote healing.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Using therapeutic ultrasound as an adjunct treatment to help reduce pain, decrease inflammation, break down scar tissue, and accelerate the repair of injured soft tissues.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: The application of specific wavelengths of light energy (cold laser) by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and accelerate tissue repair and regeneration at a cellular level.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Application of various forms of electrical stimulation, such as Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) for muscle strengthening and re-education, or Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) to assist with movement, as prescribed by your Physiotherapist.

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

• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of recovering from a concussion and dealing with lingering symptoms like dizziness or headaches? Madison Ames works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of feeling empowered to take control of their physical health journey. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as being able to carry their baby or toddler without straining their back or arms.
• For those whose shoulder pain that makes simple things like lifting my arm or reaching overhead difficult has made competing effectively in their curling league games seem like a distant memory, Madison Ames's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward getting back their independence with daily activities and personal care. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to competing effectively in their curling league games with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• Rediscover your ability to being able to kneel or squat down to play with pets or children without the constant burden of clicking, popping, or pain in my jaw (TMJ issues) when I eat or talk. Madison Ames focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to a smooth and confident transition back to their work duties, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
• Don't let tendonitis pain flaring up in my shoulder, knee, elbow, or foot dictate what you can and cannot do. Madison Ames offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at improved ability to lift and carry objects correctly and safely, helping you reclaim walking their children to school or the park and enjoy a more functional life.

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

Madison Ames practices at North York General Hospital, situated in the Bayview Village neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Chinatown and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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 kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

Comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement is best for your physiotherapy appointment – think about what you might wear to a gym or for light exercise. If you're being treated for a lower-body issue (like hip or knee pain), shorts are very helpful. For upper-body issues (like shoulder or neck pain), a tank top or loose t-shirt is suitable so the Physiotherapist can properly examine and treat the area.

Is there parking available at or near North York General Hospital?

Paid parking is available in the parkade adjacent to North York General Hospital. Limited free street parking may also be found in the vicinity, but please check local signage for restrictions.

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?

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. Always check your private/extended health insurance plans, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

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 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.

North York General Hospital
4001 Leslie St.
Toronto, ON, M2K 1E1

Phone: (416) 756-6000

Madison Joelle Ames 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: XXX40

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=25e3d6ed-403d-ee11-bdf4-000d3a09c8da

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