Melanie Tara Plener – Physiotherapist | Vaughan, ON

Melanie Tara Plener is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital Mackenzie Health in Vaughan, ON, Melanie Plener is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Melanie Plener'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. Melanie Plener serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Melanie Tara Plener completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Queen's University (Graduating Class of 2015). With extensive clinical experience, Melanie Plener is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Melanie Plener has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Neurological Physiotherapy.

Melanie Plener's practice philosophy centers on empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results; promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Vaughan community through proactive physiotherapy; and employing a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Melanie Plener offers consultations in English.

Melanie Tara Plener 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: Physiotherapy management of acute and persistent symptoms of a concussion, including addressing associated neck pain/dysfunction (cervicogenic component), vestibular (balance/dizziness) issues, oculomotor (eye movement) problems, and exertional intolerance.

Neurological

• Parkinson's Disease Management & Movement Therapy: Physiotherapy interventions focusing on large-amplitude movements, rhythmic activities, and strategies to overcome movement difficulties associated with Parkinson's.
• Functional Neurological Disorders (FND) - Movement Retraining: Physiotherapy as a key component of a multidisciplinary approach for Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder (FND), focusing on movement retraining, normalizing movement patterns that may be abnormal (e.g., tremor, weakness, gait disturbance, dystonia), and improving functional abilities.

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): Commonly known as 'wear-and-tear' arthritis, this condition affects various joints, often worsening with age, overuse, or previous injury, and can significantly impact daily function.

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. Melanie Plener can assess your needs.

• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Hands-on physiotherapy focused on mobilizing restricted joints and soft tissues to promote healing, restore normal biomechanics, and alleviate pain.
• Tele-Rehabilitation / Virtual Physiotherapy Consultations: Effective virtual physiotherapy care to help you manage your condition, progress your rehabilitation, and receive professional advice when in-person visits are challenging or not preferred.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Targeted therapy to alleviate symptoms such as shooting pain, pins and needles, or weakness arising from neural tension or entrapment.
• 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.
• Home-Based Physiotherapy Visits (Mobile Physio): Providing professional physiotherapy assessment, treatment, education, and exercise prescription directly in the comfort and convenience of your home environment, especially for those who have difficulty attending an outpatient clinic due to mobility issues, severe pain, or other constraints.
• 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.

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

• When persistent dizziness that isn't a spinning vertigo but makes me feel unsteady is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing attending concerts or theatre shows and sitting comfortably throughout, physiotherapy with Melanie Plener can help you work towards feeling more resilient and less vulnerable to minor strains or injuries. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• The journey to feeling equipped with effective self-management strategies and exercises when faced with persistent pain in my shins when I try to run or be active (shin splints) is made smoother and more effective with Melanie Plener's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like returning to a specific physical hobby they had to give up due to pain.
• Many find that that nagging tennis elbow (or golfer's elbow) that flares up with activity significantly impacts their ability to playing in their competitive volleyball league again. Melanie Plener helps patients target returning to their workout routine with greater confidence and better performance with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• If trying to stay as mobile and active as possible while living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is preventing you from fully enjoying engaging in detailed crafting, sewing, or knitting hobbies for hours, Melanie Plener offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining getting back to enjoying life's simple pleasures without physical limitations, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.

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

Melanie Plener practices at Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital Mackenzie Health, situated in the Maple neighborhood of Vaughan. The clinic is conveniently located near Concord Business Parks and is accessible via York Region Transit (YRT) / Viva. 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 waitlists may exist. Always check your private/extended health insurance plan, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

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. Contact your insurance provider before your first appointment to understand your plan's specifics: annual maximum for physiotherapy, per-visit limits or co-payments, referral requirements, and direct billing options. If Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital Mackenzie Health offers direct billing and your plan allows it, we can bill your insurer directly for the covered portion; you'll be responsible for any co-payment or remaining balance. Bring your insurance card and policy details to your first appointment. If direct billing isn't possible, we'll provide a receipt for submission to your insurer.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

The first physiotherapy session is primarily an in-depth assessment. Expect to discuss your issue, its history, and your overall health background with your Physiotherapist. Physical tests will assess your movement, strength, and areas of concern. The goal is to understand your condition fully to develop a tailored treatment plan collaboratively. You might also receive initial home exercises or hands-on care.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is crucial in most physiotherapy treatment plans. Your Physiotherapist will prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals. These exercises complement in-clinic treatment, help manage symptoms between sessions, accelerate recovery, and empower you with tools for long-term self-management. Your active participation is key.

How can I book an appointment at Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital Mackenzie Health?

You can book an appointment by calling the clinic directly at (905) 417-2000 during business hours. Online booking may also be available through their website. The reception team can assist you in finding a suitable appointment time.

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 (direct access). However, some private health insurance plans require a referral for reimbursement. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

What are Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital Mackenzie Health's operating hours?

Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital Mackenzie Health is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with some practitioners offering Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Hours can vary, so call (905) 417-2000 or check their website for the most current hours and availability.

Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital Mackenzie Health
3200 Major MacKenzie Drive West
Vaughan, ON, L6A 4Z3

Phone: (905) 417-2000

Melanie Tara Plener 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: XXX68

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=4b354eb7-9202-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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