Maria V. Luccisano – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Maria V. Luccisano is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at WSIB Ontario in Toronto, ON, Mary is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Mary'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. Mary serves adults.

Maria V. Luccisano completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Toronto (Graduating Class of 1999). With extensive clinical experience, Mary is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Mary has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Mary's practice philosophy centers on empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Mary employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Mary offers consultations in English, Italian.

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

Back Neck Pain

• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Back or neck pain that often radiates into an arm or leg, potentially with numbness, tingling, weakness, or burning sensations, due to a spinal disc problem (herniation, protrusion, or bulge) compressing or irritating a nearby nerve root (radiculopathy). Sciatica specifically refers to radicular pain down the leg.
• 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.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Discomfort, aching, stiffness, or muscle fatigue in the back or neck arising from sustained or awkward postures during daily activities, prolonged work (e.g., desk work, computer use), or sleep.

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): 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.

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. Mary can assess your needs.

• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: Utilizing therapeutic laser to enhance tissue regeneration, reduce pain signals, and manage inflammation as part of your comprehensive physiotherapy care.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Targeted manual methods performed by your Physiotherapist to release tight or overactive muscles, address fascial restrictions, and alleviate pain arising from soft tissue dysfunction.
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): The application of focused acoustic waves (Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy) by a trained Physiotherapist to treat chronic tendon issues (e.g., plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, Achilles tendinopathy), calcific tendinosis, and other persistent musculoskeletal conditions.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): The therapeutic use of different electrical currents by your Physiotherapist to achieve specific physiological effects, such as improving muscle contraction, reducing atrophy, or enhancing functional movement.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: A comforting physiotherapy modality that helps to soothe tight muscles, decrease pain perception, and improve the flexibility of soft tissues.
• 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.

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

• Patients often come to Mary feeling defeated by breathing difficulties and shortness of breath with COPD or asthma, especially during activity. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving a renewed sense of vitality and enthusiasm for daily activities and resuming getting back to cycling for leisure or commuting becomes a realistic and attainable goal.
• Many individuals seek help from Mary, their physiotherapist, when difficulty getting out of a chair or bed due to stiffness or pain starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve improved balance and coordination, leading to safer and more confident mobility in seniors, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like enduring their daily commute, whether driving or on public transit, without stiffness.
• Physiotherapy with Mary can be a transformative turning point for those affected by shoulder pain that makes simple things like lifting my arm or reaching overhead difficult. The shared goal is achieving greater ease in performing overhead activities or reaching, paving the way for you to enjoy managing shopping trips and carrying bags without excessive fatigue or pain and a more active, vibrant life.
• If wrist pain and tingling, possibly from carpal tunnel syndrome, especially at night is preventing you from fully enjoying setting up and taking down equipment for hobbies or sports, Mary offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining being able to play actively with their children or grandchildren again, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.

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

Mary practices at WSIB Ontario, situated in the CN Tower, King and Spadina, Railway Lands, Harbourfront West neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Trillium Park and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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 Ontarians. 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 plan, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

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

For your first visit, please bring your provincial health card (e.g., Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) card, if applicable for any publicly funded programs or simply for identification), any relevant medical information such as a doctor's referral note (if you have one), reports from recent imaging (like X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound scans), and a list of your current medications. Also, if you plan to use private health insurance, bring your insurance card or policy details. Finally, wear or bring comfortable clothing suitable for assessment and movement.

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.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at WSIB Ontario treat?

Our Physiotherapists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes, but is not limited to, issues like back and neck pain, joint problems (such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery), and nerve pain. We also have therapists with specialized skills in areas like Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy. Our treatments often involve manual therapy, exercise prescription, and patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.

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. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

What is WSIB Ontario'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 for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. A fee may be charged for late cancellations or missed appointments without sufficient notice. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your appointment.

WSIB Ontario
200 Front St. West
Toronto, ON, M5V 3J1

Phone: (416) 344-1000

Maria V. Luccisano 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: XXX00

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=c649f678-8c02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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