Melissa M.L. Mallette – Physiotherapist | Ottawa, ON

Melissa M.L. Mallette is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at The Salvation Army Ottawa Grace Manor in Ottawa, ON, Melissa is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Melissa'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. Melissa 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. Melissa serves seniors within the Ottawa community.

Melissa M.L. Mallette completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Ottawa (Graduating Class of 2001). With extensive clinical experience, Melissa is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Melissa has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and Geriatric Physiotherapy / Seniors' Health.

Melissa embraces a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Melissa promotes preventative care and long-term wellness for the Ottawa community through proactive physiotherapy and has a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Melissa M.L. Mallette offers consultations in English, French.

Melissa M.L. Mallette provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Addressing the inflammation, pain, and restricted movement associated with stenosing tenosynovitis of the finger or thumb.
• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Physiotherapy to help you regain optimal use of your hand and wrist after an injury, surgery, or due to a chronic condition, enabling you to return to work, hobbies, and daily tasks.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Painful neck conditions that can make head movements difficult, sometimes leading to headaches or radiating pain into the shoulders.
• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Aching, burning, sharp pain, or a 'pins and needles' sensation in the wrist, thumb, or hand region, sometimes waking you at night.

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. Melissa can assess your needs.

• 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.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Graded exercise programs designed to improve your overall physical fitness, endurance, strength, and functional capacity, especially beneficial after illness, surgery, or periods of prolonged inactivity.
• 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.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Targeted exercises using resistance (such as bodyweight, resistance bands, free weights, or gym equipment) to build muscle strength, power, and endurance, tailored to your specific rehabilitation needs or performance goals.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: A variety of hands-on methods such as therapeutic massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and active release style techniques to reduce muscle tension, break down scar tissue, improve circulation, and enhance tissue flexibility.
• 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 Melissa, 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 The Salvation Army Ottawa Grace Manor, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Melissa frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of difficulty with fine motor skills like buttoning shirts or writing due to hand pain? Melissa works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of a better ability to cope with the physical stresses of daily life. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as walking up and down several flights of stairs without issue or breathlessness.
• The journey to experiencing significant pain relief, allowing for a more comfortable daily life when faced with persistent feeling generally stiff, achy, and less mobile than I used to be is made smoother and more effective with Melissa's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like being able to perform deep cleaning tasks around the house.
• It's truly rewarding for Melissa to witness patients conquer recovering my strength and energy after being very sick (like with pneumonia or Long COVID) and experience being active again without the constant worry of pain or re-injury. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in hitting the slopes for a full day of skiing or snowboarding in winter again.
• Physiotherapy with Melissa can be a transformative turning point for those affected by breathing difficulties and shortness of breath with COPD or asthma, especially during activity. The shared goal is achieving a significant improvement in their overall quality of life and daily well-being, paving the way for you to enjoy maintaining an upright posture while working on their computer for hours and a more active, vibrant life.

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

Melissa practices at The Salvation Army Ottawa Grace Manor, situated in the Hintonburg, Civic Hospital, Westboro East neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near National Defence HQ (Pearkes Building) and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

Is there parking available at or near The Salvation Army Ottawa Grace Manor?

Paid parking is available in the parkade adjacent to our building. Limited free street parking may also be found in the vicinity, but please check local signage for time limits and restrictions.

What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

It's recommended to wear or bring clothing that allows unrestricted movement and provides easy access for your physiotherapist to examine the body part being assessed or treated. For instance, if you have a knee problem, please wear or bring shorts. For shoulder issues, a sleeveless top or a top with loose armholes is often helpful. The goal is to make the assessment and treatment as effective as possible.

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 may require a referral for reimbursement. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

Is physiotherapy covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

OHIP generally does NOT cover physiotherapy services in private outpatient clinics. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available in specific situations (e.g., post-hospitalization), but eligibility is strict. Check your private insurance for coverage.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your initial visit is about an hour. Follow-up sessions are generally 30-45 minutes, but this can vary.

How can I book an appointment at The Salvation Army Ottawa Grace Manor?

You can book an appointment by calling (613) 722-8025 during business hours. Our reception team can assist you.

The Salvation Army Ottawa Grace Manor
1156 Wellington Street West
Ottawa, ON, K1Y 2Z3

Phone: (613) 722-8025

Melissa M.L. Mallette 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: XXX47

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=a40e43f9-8c02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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