Malcolm Sanderson – Physiotherapist | St. Catharines, ON

Malcolm Sanderson is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at ProActive Chiropractic & Training Centre in St. Catharines, ON, Malcolm Sanderson is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Malcolm Sanderson'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. Malcolm Sanderson serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Malcolm Sanderson completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Toronto (Graduating Class of 2023). With clinical experience, Malcolm Sanderson is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Malcolm Sanderson has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Malcolm Sanderson employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting; promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the St. Catharines community through proactive physiotherapy. Malcolm Sanderson offers consultations in English.

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

Arthritis

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Back Neck Pain

• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Nerve compression symptoms due to a narrowing (stenosis) of the spinal canal or the small openings where nerves exit the spine (foramina), most commonly in the lumbar (lower back) or cervical (neck) regions.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: A common cause of persistent back and neck pain due to the cumulative strain of prolonged sitting, standing, or performing tasks in non-ideal positions.

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. Malcolm Sanderson can assess your needs.

• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Progressive resistance training programs designed by your Physiotherapist to improve muscle performance, support joint health, and enhance functional capacity for daily life or sport.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Detailed analysis of your static and dynamic posture, with tailored exercises, stretches, and advice to help you improve alignment and reduce strain on your body.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Structured physical activities and exercises aimed at helping you safely regain strength, stamina, and confidence in your body's abilities, tailored to your current level.
• 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.
• 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.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Specific stretches designed by your therapist to target tight muscle groups relevant to your condition, helping to improve your flexibility and reduce your risk of injury.

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

• Many individuals seek help from Malcolm Sanderson, their physiotherapist, when post-operative stiffness and weakness that's slowing down my recovery starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve getting back to hiking, running, or cycling pain-free and with renewed vigor, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like returning to a specific physical hobby they had to give up due to pain.
• The journey to being able to travel more comfortably and with less planning around physical limitations when faced with persistent frequent headaches that seem to start from tension in my neck or shoulders is made smoother and more effective with Malcolm Sanderson's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like maintaining their balance and stability while walking on uneven ground or trails.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of dealing with ongoing pain and stiffness after a car accident, like whiplash? Malcolm Sanderson works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of running their usual distance comfortably and with improved form. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as getting on and off the floor with ease.
• Many find that my child walking on their toes most of the time significantly impacts their ability to participating in community events and social gatherings more actively. Malcolm Sanderson helps patients target a return to intimacy without the fear of pain or discomfort with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.

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

Malcolm Sanderson's practice at ProActive Chiropractic & Training Centre is situated in the Grantham, Port Weller 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. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows the Physiotherapist to easily access and assess the area being treated, and permits you to move freely for any exercises or movements. For example, shorts are ideal for knee, hip, or ankle issues, while a tank top or loose t-shirt works well for shoulder, neck, or upper back problems. Athletic wear or gym attire is generally a good choice. You may also be provided with a gown if needed.

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.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession dedicated to helping people of all ages improve their movement, function, and overall well-being. A registered Physiotherapist uses evidence-based techniques like targeted exercise, hands-on manual therapy, and personalized education to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of injuries, pain conditions, and physical impairments affecting your muscles, bones, joints, nerves, and even your cardiorespiratory system. It can help you reduce pain, increase mobility and strength, recover from surgery, prevent future injuries, and enhance your quality of life.

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.

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.

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

OHIP generally does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private outpatient clinics. 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 waitlists may exist. It is strongly recommended to check your private insurance coverage for physiotherapy services in private clinics.

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

In Ontario, you can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a doctor's referral (direct access). However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for coverage. Check your insurance policy before your appointment.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at ProActive Chiropractic & Training Centre treat?

Physiotherapists at ProActive Chiropractic & Training Centre treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including back and neck pain, joint problems (arthritis, post-surgical recovery), sports injuries, and nerve pain. They also offer services such as strength and conditioning, postural assessment, and patient education to help patients achieve their functional goals. Malcolm Sanderson's expertise includes Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

ProActive Chiropractic & Training Centre
300 Bunting Road
St. Catharines, ON, L2M 7X3

Phone: (905) 937-7908

Malcolm Sanderson 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: XXX96

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=25db2f52-081c-ee11-8f6d-000d3a09cd81

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