Maria Theresa Hayward – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Maria Theresa Hayward is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Closing the Gap Healthcare in Toronto, ON, Maria Theresa Hayward is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Maria Theresa Hayward'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. Maria Theresa Hayward serves adults.

Maria Theresa Hayward completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Fatima College of Physical Therapy (Graduating Class of 1996). With extensive clinical experience, Maria Theresa Hayward is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Maria Theresa Hayward has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Maria Theresa Hayward's practice philosophy centers on a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Maria Theresa Hayward offers consultations in English, Tagalog.

Maria Theresa Hayward provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Back Neck Pain

• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Symptoms of nerve compression originating from the spine, such as a 'slipped disc' or 'pinched nerve', causing radiating pain, altered sensation, or muscle weakness in a limb.
• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Symptoms resulting from a whiplash injury, which can vary in severity (WAD Grades I-III) and duration, requiring a comprehensive physiotherapy approach for recovery.
• 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: Pain and muscle tension related to ergonomic factors at work or home, muscle imbalances, and suboptimal body mechanics or movement habits.

Hand Wrist

• 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.
• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Addressing the inflammation, pain, and restricted movement associated with stenosing tenosynovitis of the finger or thumb.

Post Surgical

• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): Supportive physiotherapy to aid your recovery and help you manage symptoms after back or neck surgery, focusing on education, safe movement strategies, and specific exercises.
• Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): Guidance on hip precautions (if applicable for your surgical approach), a progressive exercise program, and functional retraining after hip surgery to help you achieve your goals.
• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: Specialized physiotherapy following knee ligament reconstruction surgery to ensure a successful recovery, minimize complications (like stiffness or muscle atrophy), and facilitate a safe and confident return to activity and sport, preventing re-injury.
• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): Targeted physiotherapy to help you recover from operatively treated fractures, addressing common issues like joint stiffness, muscle weakness, swelling, pain, and functional limitations in the affected limb.

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 Theresa Hayward can assess your needs.

• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Comprehensive exercise plans developed by your Physiotherapist to combat deconditioning, enhance overall physical well-being, and promote an active lifestyle.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: A non-invasive light therapy used in physiotherapy to treat various musculoskeletal conditions, promote faster healing, reduce pain, and modulate inflammation without generating heat.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Targeted exercises focused on strengthening the deep abdominal, back, pelvic floor, and diaphragm muscles to provide better support for your spine, improve posture, enhance balance, and increase movement efficiency.
• 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.
• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: The application of gentle, controlled mechanical or manual force to distract (stretch) spinal segments, aiming to alleviate pressure on intervertebral discs, nerves, and facet joints.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: Application of therapeutic heat to prepare tissues for exercise, manual therapy, or stretching, or to manage chronic muscle soreness and joint stiffness.

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

• Discover how physiotherapy with Maria Theresa Hayward can help you move beyond recovering from a painful and limiting work-related injury (WCB/CNESST/WorkSafe claim). The focus is on a feeling of being 'unstuck' and more supple, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as maintaining an upright posture while working on their computer for hours.
• Physiotherapy with Maria Theresa Hayward can be a transformative turning point for those affected by widespread muscle pain and fatigue that my doctor thinks might be fibromyalgia. The shared goal is achieving getting back to enjoying life's simple pleasures without physical limitations, paving the way for you to enjoy playing their musical instrument (guitar, piano, violin, etc.) for extended periods and a more active, vibrant life.
• With Maria Theresa Hayward's help, managing feeling 'off-balance' and worried about falling, especially as I get older to achieve waking up feeling more refreshed with considerably less pain and stiffness becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like giving presentations or speaking publicly with confidence and good posture.
• When recovering my strength and mobility after a knee or hip replacement surgery is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing hitting the slopes for a full day of skiing or snowboarding in winter, physiotherapy with Maria Theresa Hayward can help you work towards a significant improvement in their overall quality of life and daily well-being. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.

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

Maria Theresa Hayward practices at Closing the Gap Healthcare, situated in the York Mills West neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near the Metro Toronto Convention Centre and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

What is Closing the Gap Healthcare's appointment cancellation policy?

We understand that schedules can change unexpectedly. To ensure we can accommodate all our patients efficiently, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice (or one business day) for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer the time slot to other patients who may be waiting for care. A fee equivalent to 50% of the service cost may be charged for late cancellations (less than 24 hours' notice) or missed appointments (no-shows) without sufficient notice. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your appointment.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

You can expect your initial physiotherapy visit to be around an hour long. This extended time allows for a comprehensive assessment of your condition and a collaborative discussion about your treatment goals. Subsequent follow-up sessions are generally between 30 and 45 minutes, though this can be adjusted based on your individual requirements. Your Physiotherapist will advise on the appropriate appointment length for your specific care.

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

Patients in Ontario can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a physician's referral (this is known as direct access). However, some private/extended health insurance plans require a referral for reimbursement of physiotherapy services. It is strongly advised to check your individual insurance policy before your first appointment.

How can I book an appointment at Closing the Gap Healthcare?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (416) 226-6141 during our business hours. Our friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable appointment time with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

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. We recommend you contact your insurance provider directly before your first appointment to understand the specifics of your plan. 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 by the clinic. If Closing the Gap Healthcare offers direct billing and your plan allows it, we can often bill your insurer directly for the covered portion. You would then be responsible for any co-payment or remaining balance not covered by your plan at the time of service. Please bring your insurance card and all necessary policy details to your first appointment. If direct billing is not possible, we will provide you with an official receipt that you can submit to your insurer.

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 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. Check your private insurance for private clinic coverage.

Is there parking available at or near Closing the Gap Healthcare?

Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

Closing the Gap Healthcare
35 The Links Road, Suite 202
Toronto, ON, M2P 1T7

Phone: (416) 226-6141

Maria Theresa Hayward 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: XXX55

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=c5c753f4-8e02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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