Maria C. Burns – Physiotherapist | Bracebridge, ON

Maria C. Burns is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare in Bracebridge, ON, Maria Burns is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Maria Burns's role involves 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. Maria Burns serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Maria C. Burns completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McGill University (Graduating Class of 1983). With extensive clinical experience, Maria Burns is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Maria Burns has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Maria Burns's practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Bracebridge community through proactive physiotherapy; empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Maria Burns offers consultations in English.

Maria C. Burns provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Helping to alleviate the symptoms of a catching, locking, or painful finger/thumb through targeted physiotherapy interventions, potentially avoiding the need for injections or surgery in some cases.
• 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

• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Neck, shoulder, and upper back discomfort, often accompanied by headaches or 'brain fog', after a sudden jerking motion of the head, such as in a rear-end collision.
• 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.

Joint Pain

• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Conditions like 'jumper's knee' (patellar tendinopathy), 'swimmer's shoulder' (rotator cuff tendinopathy), or 'tennis elbow' (lateral epicondylitis) caused by tendon issues that limit your ability to perform specific tasks.
• 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.

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. Maria Burns can assess your needs.

• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Development of a tailored therapeutic exercise program by your Physiotherapist, focused on your specific rehabilitation needs, strength goals, flexibility improvements, balance, and overall conditioning.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Assessing your fundamental movement patterns to identify limitations, asymmetries, and potential risk factors for injury or re-injury.
• 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.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Customized strength training to address specific weaknesses identified in your assessment, helping to correct imbalances, improve movement efficiency, and achieve your physical objectives.
• 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.
• 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.

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

• Maria Burns frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of pain and difficulty with overhead movements like reaching into a cupboard. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets enjoying family vacations and outings with more energy and less pain and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema or a play.
• Living with that 'arthritic' pain in my hands, hips, or knees doesn't have to be your norm. Maria Burns applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards enjoying less stiffness in the mornings and throughout the day, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of resuming their weightlifting routine at the gym safely.
• It's truly rewarding for Maria Burns to witness patients conquer knee pain, especially when going up/down stairs or after a run and experience being able to climb stairs with ease and confidence once again. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in getting back to cycling for leisure or commuting again.
• Are you finding that one leg feeling shorter than the other, causing hip or back pain stops you from enjoying handling their job that involves frequent standing, walking, or bending? Maria Burns is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve improved breathing mechanics and capacity through postural correction through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.

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

Maria Burns's practice at Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare is situated in a physiotherapy clinic in the central Bracebridge neighborhood of Bracebridge. The clinic is conveniently located near nearby parks and community recreation facilities and is accessible via local public transit routes. Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

Does Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

While Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare does 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 policy details 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.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your first physiotherapy appointment, which includes a detailed assessment and the development of your initial treatment plan, usually takes about 60 minutes. Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled for 30 to 45 minutes. The exact duration of each session will depend on the nature of your treatment and what your Physiotherapist has planned for that specific visit to best help you progress.

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

Some temporary post-treatment soreness can be normal, much like after a good workout. However, if your pain significantly worsens, if you develop new concerning symptoms, or if the discomfort doesn't settle down within a day or two, please call us. Your Physiotherapist would want to know so they can offer guidance and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan. Open communication is key to your successful recovery.

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.

Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?

It's helpful to bring your health card, any referral letters from other healthcare providers if you were referred, and any reports or images from relevant medical tests (X-rays, MRIs, etc.) related to your condition. If you have private insurance coverage for physiotherapy, please bring your insurance card or policy details for billing purposes. Comfortable attire that allows for easy movement during the assessment is also recommended.

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

In Ontario, you 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 of physiotherapy services. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

What are Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare's operating hours?

Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Hours can vary by practitioner and day, so please call the clinic or check their website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

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

OHIP generally does NOT cover physiotherapy services 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 there may be waitlists. Check your private insurance for coverage.

Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare
75 Ann St.
Bracebridge, ON, P1L 2E4

Phone: (705) 645-4404

Maria C. Burns 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: XXX63

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=8c7b7bbd-8902-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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