Meaghan Boatsmith – Physiotherapist | Burlington, ON

Meaghan Boatsmith is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Resident Physiotherapist) (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at Burlington Sports and Spine Clinic in Burlington, ON, Meaghan Boatsmith is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Meaghan Boatsmith's focus is 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. Meaghan Boatsmith also 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. Meaghan Boatsmith serves infants, children, and adolescents.

Meaghan Boatsmith completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 2024). With clinical experience, Meaghan Boatsmith is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Meaghan Boatsmith has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and Neurological Physiotherapy.

Meaghan Boatsmith'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. Meaghan Boatsmith offers consultations in English.

Meaghan Boatsmith provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: A brain injury caused by a direct or indirect blow to the head, resulting in a range of symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, visual disturbances, cognitive difficulties (e.g., 'brain fog', memory issues), fatigue, and emotional changes. Post-Concussion Syndrome refers to symptoms persisting beyond the typical recovery window.

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.
• 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.
• 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).
• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Post-traumatic neck pain, restricted movement, and associated issues common after car accidents, which benefit from early and appropriate physiotherapy intervention.

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. Meaghan Boatsmith can assess your needs.

• Balance Training & Falls Prevention Programs: Helping you stay steady on your feet and maintain your independence through targeted balance and coordination exercises, and practical fall prevention education.
• Neurological Rehabilitation (e.g., Stroke, MS, Parkinson's, Acquired Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury): Tailored exercises, hands-on techniques, and functional strategies to manage symptoms (e.g., spasticity, weakness, ataxia) and optimize function in various neurological conditions, promoting participation in daily life.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): A systematic screening process, such as FMS™ or SFMA™ (if your Physiotherapist is certified), to understand how you move and guide preventative or corrective exercise programs.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Education on optimal body mechanics and corrective strategies to improve your posture during daily activities, work, and recreation.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Empowering you with a clear understanding of your condition, its causes, and practical tools for effective self-management and lasting relief.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: An in-depth examination to fully understand your specific condition, allowing your Physiotherapist to create an effective and personalized rehabilitation plan.

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

• Meaghan Boatsmith frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of feeling 'off-balance' and worried about falling, especially as I get older. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets enjoying cycling or swimming regularly without pain or limitation and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like simply being able to get through a workday without constant pain interruptions.
• Many find that breathing difficulties and shortness of breath with COPD or asthma, especially during activity significantly impacts their ability to walking up and down several flights of stairs without issue or breathlessness. Meaghan Boatsmith helps patients target feeling equipped with effective self-management strategies and exercises with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• It's truly rewarding for Meaghan Boatsmith to witness patients conquer trouble with a constantly stiff and sore neck, making turning my head a pain and experience a safe and confident return to their favorite sport or recreational activity. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in being able to carry their baby or toddler without straining their back or arms again.
• Struggling with the frustration of facial weakness or drooping on one side (like Bell's Palsy)? Meaghan Boatsmith develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving improved performance in work-related physical demands. This is key to helping you get back to doing working at their desk all day without developing back or neck stiffness with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.

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

Meaghan Boatsmith practices at Burlington Sports and Spine Clinic, situated in the Headon Forest, Palmer neighborhood of Burlington. The clinic is conveniently located near Central Park and is accessible via Burlington Transit. Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

It's not uncommon to experience some temporary soreness or a mild increase in symptoms after certain physiotherapy treatments, especially in the initial stages or if you're starting new exercises. This usually subsides within 24-48 hours. However, if you experience a significant or sharp increase in pain, new or worsening neurological symptoms (like numbness, tingling, or weakness), or if your soreness lasts longer than expected, it's important to contact Burlington Sports and Spine Clinic or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

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.

What is Burlington Sports and Spine Clinic'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. This allows us to offer the time slot to other patients who may be waiting for care. A fee 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.

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. Always check your private/extended health insurance plans, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy, delivered by a qualified Physiotherapist, is a science-based profession that focuses on restoring movement and function when someone is affected by injury, illness, or disability. It can also help to reduce your risk of future problems. Your physiotherapist will use techniques such as therapeutic exercise, manual therapy (hands-on treatment), education, and advice, empowering you to manage your health independently and achieve your physical goals.

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

Patients in ON 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.

Burlington Sports and Spine Clinic
3455 Fairview St Unit 27
Burlington, ON, L7N 2R4

Phone: (289) 351-0301

Meaghan Boatsmith 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: XXX94

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=6c29ef1a-566c-ef11-a670-0022483cae12

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