Maria Jose Espana Pineda – Physiotherapist | London, ON

Maria Jose Espana Pineda is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Resident Physiotherapist). Practicing at West Five Physiotherapy and Health Centre in London, ON, Maria is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Maria 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. Maria serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Maria Jose Espana Pineda completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Universidad de La Sabana (Graduating Class of 2019). With clinical experience, Maria is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Maria has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Maria embraces a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals; empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Maria offers consultations in English, Portuguese, Spanish.

Maria Jose Espana Pineda provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

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.

Joint Pain

• 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.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Pain, tenderness, swelling, and dysfunction in a tendon (the strong cords that attach muscles to bones) due to overuse, repetitive strain, injury, or degeneration. Common sites include the Achilles, patellar tendon (knee), rotator cuff (shoulder), or elbow (tennis/golfer's elbow).

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 can assess your needs.

• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: Detailed physical assessment of your joints, muscles, nerves, and movement patterns to identify the root cause of your symptoms and guide your treatment.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Using controlled isometric and isotonic muscle contractions, as directed by your Physiotherapist, to address joint restrictions and muscle imbalances effectively.
• 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.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Targeted therapy to alleviate symptoms such as shooting pain, pins and needles, or weakness arising from neural tension or entrapment.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: A variety of hands-on methods such as therapeutic massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and active release style techniques to reduce muscle tension, break down scar tissue, improve circulation, and enhance tissue flexibility.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Identifying inefficient or compensatory movement patterns that could be contributing to your pain or hindering your physical performance.

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

• Many find that feeling unsteady on my feet or experiencing dizziness and balance problems significantly impacts their ability to competing effectively in their curling league games. Maria helps patients target a return to intimacy without the fear of pain or discomfort with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• It's truly rewarding for Maria to witness patients conquer needing help to get moving again after a long period of illness or inactivity and experience a feeling of being 'unstuck' and more supple. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in working at their desk all day without developing back or neck stiffness again.
• For those whose recovering from surgery to my hand or wrist has made simply being able to get through a workday without constant pain interruptions seem like a distant memory, Maria's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward improved performance in work-related physical demands. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to simply being able to get through a workday without constant pain interruptions with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of recovering from a burn and needing help with scar mobility and movement? Maria works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of improved overall mobility, making it easier to navigate their home and community. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as running their usual 5k route without knee pain.

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

Maria practices at West Five Physiotherapy and Health Centre, situated in the Westmount South, Southcrest neighborhood of London. The clinic is conveniently located near Victoria Hospital (LHSC) and is accessible via London Transit Commission (LTC). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Initial assessment appointments are generally longer to allow for a thorough evaluation and discussion, typically lasting between 45 to 60 minutes. Subsequent follow-up treatment sessions are usually shorter, often ranging from 30 to 45 minutes. However, the duration can vary depending on your specific needs, the complexity of your condition, the type of treatment being provided, and the treatment plan designed by your Physiotherapist.

Does West Five Physiotherapy and Health Centre offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, West Five Physiotherapy and Health Centre offers direct billing for most major private insurance companies such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, Blue Cross, etc. 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.

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.

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

No, you do not need a doctor's referral to see a physiotherapist in Ontario. This is known as direct access. However, some private/extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement of physiotherapy services. It is strongly recommended that you check the specific requirements of your individual insurance policy before your first appointment.

Is there parking available at or near West Five Physiotherapy and Health Centre?

Street parking is available near West Five Physiotherapy and Health Centre. There are also paid parking lots in the vicinity. Please check local signage for restrictions and time limits.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial and integral component of most physiotherapy treatment plans. Your Physiotherapist will prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals. These exercises are designed to complement your in-clinic treatment, help you manage your symptoms effectively between sessions, accelerate your recovery, and empower you with tools for long-term self-management. Your active participation in your home program is key for optimal results.

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 coverage for physiotherapy services in private clinics.

West Five Physiotherapy and Health Centre
1295 Riverbend Road Suite 220
London, ON, N6K 0G2

Phone: (888) 764-3235

Maria Jose Espana Pineda 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: XXX47

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=85558b74-2645-ef11-a316-6045bd5e92cc

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