Marianne Stella Longo – Physiotherapist | Hamilton, ON

Marianne Stella Longo is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at McMaster University in Hamilton, ON, Marianne is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Marianne's approach focuses on assisting individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life after neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. Marianne also focuses on the unique health needs of older adults, aiming to improve and maintain mobility, strength, balance, manage age-related conditions like arthritis or osteoporosis, reduce fall risk, and enhance overall quality of life and independence. Marianne serves adults.

Marianne Stella Longo completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 2000). With extensive clinical experience, Marianne is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Marianne has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Geriatric Physiotherapy / Seniors' Health and Neurological Physiotherapy.

Marianne's practice philosophy centers on a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting; promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Hamilton community through proactive physiotherapy; and a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Marianne Stella Longo offers consultations in English.

Marianne Stella Longo provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Neurological

• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Rehabilitation (Incomplete/Specific Cases): Comprehensive physiotherapy focusing on improving strength in available muscles, enhancing functional mobility, and promoting health and wellness after a spinal cord injury.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Symptom Management & Rehabilitation: Helping individuals with MS stay active, manage symptoms effectively, maintain independence for as long as possible, and adapt to changes in their condition.
• Muscular Dystrophy / Myopathy - Supportive Physiotherapy Care: Gentle exercises, stretching programs, and strategies to preserve strength and function, and to manage secondary complications associated with muscular dystrophies.

Vestibular Balance

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Brief, often intense, episodes of dizziness or a spinning sensation (vertigo) triggered by specific changes in head position (e.g., rolling over in bed, looking up, bending down), caused by displaced inner ear crystals (otoconia).
• General Balance Deficits and Increased Fall Risk: Practical strategies, exercises, and environmental modification advice to improve your balance, prevent falls, and maintain your independence and activity levels.

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage and underlying bone, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility in affected joints like the knees, hips, spine, or hands.
• 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. Marianne can assess your needs.

• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Evidence-based exercise programs designed by your physiotherapist, including instruction and progression, to optimize your recovery and enhance your physical well-being.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Specialized workouts to enhance your core strength, stability, and endurance, which are crucial for injury prevention, back health, and efficient performance in daily activities and sports.
• Chronic & Persistent Pain Management Programs: Multifaceted and individualized physiotherapy approaches including pain science education (understanding your pain), graded exercise therapy, pacing strategies, coping mechanisms, manual therapy (where appropriate), and relaxation techniques to help you manage persistent pain and improve your quality of life.
• Fibromyalgia & Widespread Pain Management: Tailored physiotherapy including gentle exercise prescription (e.g., aquatic therapy, graded aerobic exercise), pain management education, activity pacing strategies, stress reduction techniques, and gentle manual therapies for individuals living with fibromyalgia or other widespread pain conditions.
• 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.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Education and instruction on effective and safe stretching techniques to help you maintain or improve your body's flexibility and joint mobility.

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

• Discover how physiotherapy with Marianne can help you move beyond that burning pain between my shoulder blades from too much computer work. The focus is on running their usual distance comfortably and with improved form, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as going on enjoyable fishing or camping trips again.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury and achieved improved breathing mechanics and capacity through postural correction under the skilled care of Marianne. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as driving for longer periods without neck or back pain with a new lease on life.
• Physiotherapy with Marianne can be a transformative turning point for those affected by an awkward gait or limping when I walk. The shared goal is achieving more comfortable and efficient movement when transitioning between positions (e.g., sit to stand), paving the way for you to enjoy comfortably cooking and meal prepping for their family and a more active, vibrant life.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of tendonitis pain flaring up in my shoulder, knee, elbow, or foot? Marianne works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of a better understanding of ergonomics for their work and home environment. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as managing their personal care routines independently.

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

Marianne practices at McMaster University, situated in the Westdale, Ainslie Wood (McMaster University area) neighborhood of Hamilton. The clinic is conveniently located near FirstOntario Concert Hall (formerly Hamilton Place) and is accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

This is very individual and depends on many factors. After your comprehensive initial assessment, your Physiotherapist will be able to give you a better idea of the anticipated number of sessions and the frequency of visits needed to achieve your specific goals. We believe in open communication and will regularly review your progress with you, adjusting the treatment plan as you improve and as needed.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Essentially, physiotherapy helps you get moving and stay moving effectively and comfortably. Whether you're dealing with an acute injury, chronic pain, post-surgical recovery, or a condition affecting your physical abilities, your Physiotherapist will work with you. They'll use their expertise in body mechanics, rehabilitation, and pain management to create a personalized treatment plan involving exercises, hands-on techniques, and practical advice to help you achieve your functional goals and live a more active, fulfilling life.

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. This is known as direct access. However, while a referral isn't legally required to see a Physiotherapist, some private insurance plans may require one for reimbursement. It is strongly recommended that you check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

Does McMaster University offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

While we do 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.

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. It is strongly recommended that you check your private insurance coverage for physiotherapy services in private clinics.

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.

McMaster University
1280 Main Street West
Hamilton, ON, L8S 4L8

Phone: (905) 525-9140

Marianne Stella Longo 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: XXX60

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=eb3352db-8c02-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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