Mary Katherine Lois Schulze – Physiotherapist | Airdrie, AB

Mary Katherine Lois Schulze is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at K. Schulze Physical Therapy in Airdrie, AB, Mary is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physical Therapists of Alberta (CPTA) standards. Her approach centers on providing comprehensive assessment and treatment for a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal injuries, pain conditions, and movement dysfunctions to help patients of all ages restore function, manage pain, and improve their overall quality of life. Whether working with athletes recovering from injuries, individuals managing chronic pain, or those seeking improved mobility, Mary strives to create personalized treatment plans that address each patient's unique needs and goals.

Mary Katherine Lois Schulze completed her degree in Physiotherapy. With extensive clinical experience, she remains committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Her continuous learning ensures she stays current with the latest techniques and research, providing her patients with the most effective and innovative care possible. This dedication reflects her genuine passion for helping individuals achieve optimal health and mobility through tailored interventions and compassionate support.

Her practice philosophy emphasizes promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Airdrie community through proactive physiotherapy. Mary believes in empowering her patients by providing clear education about their conditions and practical self-management strategies that foster lasting results. She adopts a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Mary offers care in English, ensuring effective communication and understanding throughout the therapeutic journey.

Mary Katherine Lois Schulze provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

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.

Back & Neck Pain

• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Pain, pins and needles, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg resulting from irritation or compression of a spinal nerve, often managed effectively with physiotherapy techniques like McKenzie method or neural mobilization.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Often age-related changes leading to pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots, causing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs with walking (neurogenic claudication in lumbar stenosis) or in the arms/hands (cervical stenosis).
• 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.
• 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.

Common Msk

• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Disorders affecting hand and wrist function, making daily tasks such as gripping objects, typing, writing, or fine motor activities difficult and painful.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: A 'pulled' muscle, often occurring during activities like sprinting, jumping, lifting, or sudden changes in direction, causing immediate pain and difficulty using the muscle.

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Mary can assess your needs.

• 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.
• 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.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Customized exercise plans designed to help you recover from injury, manage chronic conditions, improve physical performance, and achieve your functional goals safely and effectively.
• 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.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Application of precise, passive movements to joints to decrease stiffness, relieve pain, and facilitate easier, more comfortable movement.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Mary. For a full list or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.

All services are provided in accordance with standards set by the College of Physical Therapists of Alberta (CPTA).

At K. Schulze Physical Therapy, 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:

• Mary believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If that burning pain between my shoulder blades from too much computer work is hindering your ability to operate machinery or tools safely and efficiently at work, a personalized plan focusing on more comfortable and efficient movement when transitioning between positions (e.g., sit to stand) can make all the difference.
• Struggling with the frustration of recovering from a concussion and dealing with lingering symptoms like dizziness or headaches? Mary develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving a return to intimacy without the fear of pain or discomfort. This is key to helping you get back to doing your favorite physical hobby with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• The journey to restored joint function, leading to smoother and more coordinated movements when faced with persistent difficulty getting out of a chair or bed due to stiffness or pain, is made smoother and more effective with Mary's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like dancing, whether it's ballet, salsa, or just for fun.

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

Mary's practice at K. Schulze Physical Therapy is situated in the Airdrie West neighborhood of Airdrie, AB. The clinic is conveniently located near the Sierra Springs Shopping Area, making it easy for patients to access their appointments. It is well-connected via Airdrie Transit, with local routes and ICE services to Calgary, ensuring transportation options are available for all. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

Is physiotherapy covered by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

In Alberta, AHCIP provides limited coverage for some physiotherapy services, typically after hospital discharge or for specific low-income individuals and seniors through particular programs. Most outpatient private clinic physiotherapy is not directly covered by AHCIP for the general population. Patients are encouraged to check current AHCIP details and consult their private insurance plans for coverage options.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

You can expect your initial physiotherapy visit to be around an hour long. This allows for a comprehensive assessment and collaborative goal setting. Follow-up appointments usually range from 30 to 45 minutes, with adjustments made based on your individual needs. Your Physiotherapist will advise on the appropriate duration for your care.

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

No, patients in Alberta can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a physician's referral (known as direct access). However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It's advisable to verify your insurance requirements before your first appointment.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes, physiotherapy plays a vital role in injury prevention and managing recurring pain. Your Physiotherapist can identify risk factors such as muscle imbalances, poor movement patterns, or postural issues. Through targeted exercises, education, and activity modifications, physiotherapy can help reduce the risk of injury and support long-term health.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at K. Schulze Physical Therapy treat?

Our Physiotherapists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes issues like back and neck pain, joint problems such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery, sports injuries like pregnancy-related pelvic girdle/back pain, and nerve pain. Many treatments involve stretching, manual therapy, core strengthening, and patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.

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 checking with your provider before your first visit to understand your coverage limits, co-payments, and whether a doctor's referral is required. If your plan allows, we can often bill your insurer directly, simplifying the payment process. Please bring your insurance details and card to your appointment for smooth processing.

K. Schulze Physical Therapy
2 Jensen Landing
Airdrie, AB T4B 2S2

Mary Katherine Lois Schulze is regulated by the Health Professions Act in AB and is a member of the College of Physical Therapists of Alberta (CPTA).

License #3298

Registration can be verified with the College of Physical Therapists of Alberta (CPTA).

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