Melyssa Lynn Zigmond – Physiotherapist | Kitchener, ON

Melyssa Lynn Zigmond is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at St. Mary's General Hospital in Kitchener, ON, Melyssa Zigmond is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Melyssa Zigmond's focus is managing acute and chronic conditions affecting the heart and lungs, such as COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, post-operative cardiac or respiratory recovery, and post-COVID symptoms. Melyssa Zigmond's practice involves breathing exercises, airway clearance, exercise prescription, and education, serving patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Melyssa Lynn Zigmond completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Western University (Graduating Class of 2017). With clinical experience, Melyssa Zigmond is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Melyssa Zigmond has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy.

Melyssa Zigmond maintains a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Melyssa Zigmond offers consultations in English.

Melyssa Lynn Zigmond provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Cardioresp

• Asthma Management (Exercise-Induced & General Support): Physiotherapy support for asthma management, including education on proper inhaler technique, breathing control exercises (e.g., to manage acute symptoms or anxiety during an attack), strategies to improve exercise tolerance and manage EIB, and general fitness advice.
• Bronchiectasis Management (Airway Clearance): Managing symptoms and preventing exacerbations in bronchiectasis through specialized respiratory physiotherapy, including individualized airway clearance regimens and exercise advice.
• Post-Cardiac Event Rehabilitation (Supportive Care, e.g., after MI or CABG): Aiding your recovery, promoting heart health, and helping you achieve an active lifestyle after a cardiac condition through a structured physiotherapy component of cardiac rehab.
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Management (e.g., Chronic Bronchitis, Emphysema): Helping you breathe easier, do more with less shortness of breath, and better manage your COPD through a personalized physiotherapy plan.

Post Surgical

• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): Specialized physiotherapy focused on regaining shoulder movement, strength, stability, and function after various types of shoulder surgeries, such as rotator cuff repair, labral tear repair, shoulder stabilization procedures (e.g., Bankart repair), or shoulder joint replacement (arthroplasty).
• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): A progressive rehabilitation program after surgery to fix a broken bone, helping you regain full use of your arm or leg and return to your normal activities.

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. Melyssa Zigmond can assess your needs.

• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: Detailed physical assessment of your joints, muscles, nerves, and movement patterns to identify the root cause of your symptoms and guide your treatment.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Gentle, active manual therapy techniques where you use your own specific muscle contractions against your therapist's controlled resistance to improve joint mobility, lengthen tight tissues, and reduce pain.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Application of skilled soft tissue techniques to manage pain, stiffness, and improve function in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Identifying inefficient or compensatory movement patterns that could be contributing to your pain or hindering your physical performance.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Detailed analysis of your static and dynamic posture, with tailored exercises, stretches, and advice to help you improve alignment and reduce strain on your body.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Melyssa Zigmond, 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 St. Mary's General Hospital, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Melyssa Zigmond frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• With Melyssa Zigmond's help, managing an awkward gait or limping when I walk to achieve developing better body awareness and understanding of healthy movement patterns becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like competing effectively in their curling league games.
• Patients struggling with needing help to get moving again after a long period of illness or inactivity can find dedicated and compassionate support from Melyssa Zigmond. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving much better balance overall, reducing the risk of stumbles or falls, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as performing self-care tasks like hair washing or reaching their back.
• At Melyssa Zigmond's physiotherapy practice, individuals with feeling like my joints are just 'wearing out' and getting harder to move are guided towards building the necessary muscle support for their joints, reducing the risk of re-injury. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as working at their desk all day without developing back or neck stiffness.
• Tired of clicking, popping, or pain in my jaw (TMJ issues) when I eat or talk interfering with managing shopping trips and carrying bags without excessive fatigue or pain? Melyssa Zigmond uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve achieving personal fitness goals that once seemed out of reach and regain your freedom of movement.

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

Melyssa Zigmond practices at St. Mary's General Hospital, situated in the Forest Heights, Forest Hill neighborhood of Kitchener. The clinic is conveniently located near Kitchener City Hall and is accessible via Grand River Transit (GRT) (Bus and ION Light Rail). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

What are St. Mary's General Hospital's operating hours?

St. Mary's General Hospital is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. However, hours can vary by practitioner and day, so please call our office at (519) 744-3311 or check our website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

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.

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. Check your private insurance for private clinic coverage.

How can I book an appointment at St. Mary's General Hospital?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (519) 744-3311 during our business hours. Our friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable appointment time with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

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. However, some private/extended health insurance plans require a referral for reimbursement. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

St. Mary's General Hospital
911 Queen's Blvd.
Kitchener, ON, N2M 1B2

Phone: (519) 744-3311

Melyssa Lynn Zigmond 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: XXX60

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=1fdb25d0-9302-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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