Melissa Roxanne Magtanong – Physiotherapist | Kingston, ON

Melissa Roxanne Magtanong is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Kingston Health Sciences Centre in Kingston, ON, Melissa is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Melissa focuses on 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 serves adult patients.

Melissa Roxanne Magtanong completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Queen's University (Graduating Class of 2004). 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.

Melissa's practice philosophy centers on empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results; Melissa promotes preventative care and long-term wellness for the Kingston community through proactive physiotherapy. Melissa Roxanne Magtanong offers consultations in English.

Melissa Roxanne Magtanong provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Back Neck Pain

• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Symptoms resulting from a whiplash injury, which can vary in severity (WAD Grades I-III) and duration, requiring a comprehensive physiotherapy approach for recovery.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Nerve compression symptoms due to a narrowing (stenosis) of the spinal canal or the small openings where nerves exit the spine (foramina), most commonly in the lumbar (lower back) or cervical (neck) regions.

Joint Pain

• 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.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Persistent tendon pain that can interfere with your sports, work, or daily activities, often requiring specific loading programs and advice from a physiotherapist for effective management.

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.

• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Using therapeutic cold to manage the initial stages of an injury (e.g., sprains, strains) and control inflammatory responses, helping to limit tissue damage.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Employing different types of electrotherapy to support your rehabilitation goals, including promoting tissue healing or improving motor control.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Application of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) or Interferential Current (IFC) for managing acute or chronic pain conditions by modulating pain signals or promoting the release of endorphins.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: The application of specific wavelengths of light energy (cold laser) by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and accelerate tissue repair and regeneration at a cellular level.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Using therapeutic ultrasound as an adjunct treatment to help reduce pain, decrease inflammation, break down scar tissue, and accelerate the repair of injured soft tissues.
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): The application of focused acoustic waves (Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy) by a trained Physiotherapist to treat chronic tendon issues (e.g., plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, Achilles tendinopathy), calcific tendinosis, and other persistent musculoskeletal conditions.

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 Kingston Health Sciences Centre, 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:

• Rediscover your ability to sleeping soundly through the night without being woken by pain or discomfort without the constant burden of trying to stay as mobile and active as possible while living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Melissa focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to restored joint function, leading to smoother and more coordinated movements, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Melissa can help you move beyond feeling like my posture is hunched or rounded, causing discomfort. The focus is on sleeping more soundly through the night due to reduced pain and discomfort, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as playing a few sets of tennis without shoulder pain.
• It's truly rewarding for Melissa to witness patients conquer facial weakness or drooping on one side (like Bell's Palsy) and experience better joint stability during movement and weight-bearing activities. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in attending their favorite yoga and pilates classes without limitation again.
• Living with recovering my strength and energy after being very sick (like with pneumonia or Long COVID) doesn't have to be your norm. Melissa applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards less reliance on pain medication, trusting more in their body's ability to heal and function, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of swimming laps at the pool for fitness and relaxation.

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

Melissa practices at Kingston Health Sciences Centre, located in the Downtown Kingston, Queen's University Area, Sydenham Ward neighborhood of Kingston. The clinic is conveniently located near Kingston City Hall and is accessible via Kingston Transit. Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

The primary goal of physiotherapy is generally to reduce pain and improve function, not to cause significant or lasting pain. Some assessment techniques or specific treatments (like deep soft tissue work, joint mobilization, or certain exercises) might cause mild, temporary discomfort or soreness, especially if the tissues being treated are sensitive, inflamed, or very stiff. However, your Physiotherapist will always work within your tolerance levels, communicate clearly about what to expect, and encourage open feedback. If you experience notable or unacceptable pain during treatment, please inform your therapist immediately so adjustments can be made to ensure your comfort.

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. This is known as direct access. However, while a doctor's referral may not be legally required to see a Physiotherapist, some private/extended health insurance plans do require one for reimbursement of physiotherapy services. It is strongly recommended that you check the specific requirements of your individual insurance policy before your first appointment.

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.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your first visit, the Physiotherapist will conduct a detailed evaluation to get a full picture of your condition. This usually involves a thorough discussion about your symptoms, how they impact your daily life, any relevant medical history, and your personal goals for therapy. A physical assessment will then be performed to help pinpoint the cause of your problem and assess your physical capabilities. Afterwards, your therapist will explain their findings, collaborate with you to set treatment goals, and outline a proposed plan of care. You'll likely receive some initial advice, exercises, or hands-on treatment to begin your recovery journey.

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. It is strongly advised that you check your private insurance for private clinic coverage and verify your specific eligibility for any public coverage directly with the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

In physiotherapy, manual therapy encompasses a range of 'hands-on' interventions. Your Physiotherapist may use these techniques to help reduce your pain, increase joint movement, relax tight muscles, or improve the mobility of your nerves. Common approaches include joint glides, sustained pressures, specific soft tissue massage, and, when indicated, joint manipulations. It's a key part of helping your body move better.

Kingston Health Sciences Centre
166 Brock Street
Kingston, ON, K7L 5G2

Phone: (613) 544-3400

Melissa Roxanne Magtanong 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: XXX33

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=4dcb1ae4-8d02-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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