Michael Boni – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Michael Boni is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at York University in Toronto, ON, Michael is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Michael 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. Michael specializes in the assessment, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries. Care is tailored to help athletes of all levels, from recreational to elite, return to their sport safely, optimize performance, and prevent future injuries. Michael serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Michael Boni completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 1998). With extensive clinical experience, Michael is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Michael has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and Sports Physiotherapy.

Michael empowers patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Michael adopts a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Michael demonstrates a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Michael offers consultations in English.

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

Hand Wrist

• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Managing a variety of acute and chronic conditions of the hand and wrist, aiming to reduce pain, improve function, and prevent long-term disability.
• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Addressing the inflammation, pain, and restricted movement associated with stenosing tenosynovitis of the finger or thumb.

Sports Injury

• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee / Anterior Knee Pain): A common overuse injury in active individuals and athletes, sometimes referred to as 'runner's knee' or 'anterior knee pain', often related to biomechanical issues in how the kneecap tracks.
• Ligament Sprains (e.g., ACL, MCL, PCL, Ankle Ligaments): Common joint injuries in athletes affecting stability, causing immediate pain, swelling, bruising, and functional loss, often requiring a structured rehabilitation program.
• Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome): Inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue (periosteum) around the tibia, which requires rest, activity modification, and specific physiotherapy interventions for recovery.

Post Surgical

• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): Supportive physiotherapy to aid your recovery and help you manage symptoms after back or neck surgery, focusing on education, safe movement strategies, and specific exercises.
• Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): A tailored physiotherapy program following hip joint replacement to optimize your recovery, manage pain, ensure adherence to any precautions, and facilitate a return to an active lifestyle.
• Post-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): Comprehensive post-operative recovery guidance following knee replacement, including exercises, manual therapy, and education to ensure you achieve your best possible function.
• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): A progressive exercise program, often combined with manual therapy, designed to gradually restore your shoulder's range of motion, strength, and coordination following your operation.

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. Michael can assess your needs.

• Therapeutic Heat Application: Superficial heat application carefully monitored by your therapist to promote relaxation, pain relief, and enhance the effectiveness of other treatments.
• 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.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Application of various forms of electrical stimulation, such as Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) for muscle strengthening and re-education, or Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) to assist with movement, as prescribed by your Physiotherapist.
• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: Therapeutic traction for the cervical (neck) or lumbar (low back) spine, used by physiotherapists to help reduce pain, decompress nerve roots, and improve symptoms associated with conditions like disc herniations, sciatica, or spinal stenosis.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: LLLT or 'cold laser' therapy to stimulate your body's natural healing processes, provide pain relief, and improve function in conditions like tendinopathies, arthritis, or soft tissue injuries.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Utilizing targeted electrical currents to help alleviate pain, manage discomfort, and support healing in conjunction with other physiotherapy interventions.

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

• Rediscover your ability to playing their musical instrument (guitar, piano, violin, etc.) for extended periods without the constant burden of awful foot pain first thing in the morning, like I'm walking on glass (plantar fasciitis). Michael focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to understanding how to prevent future flare-ups and manage their condition long-term, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
• At Michael's physiotherapy practice, individuals with aches and pains that I'm pretty sure are from my bad posture at my desk are guided towards enhanced pelvic floor function and control (for relevant conditions). The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as sleeping soundly through the night without being woken by pain or discomfort.
• Don't let wrist pain and tingling, possibly from carpal tunnel syndrome, especially at night dictate what you can and cannot do. Michael offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at achieving personal fitness goals that once seemed out of reach, helping you reclaim reaching for items on high shelves or in cupboards without shoulder strain and enjoy a more functional life.
• The path to recovery from that 'pins and needles' feeling that won't go away and achieving running their usual distance comfortably and with improved form for attending concerts or theatre shows and sitting comfortably throughout often starts with expert guidance. Michael, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.

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

Michael's practice at York University is situated in the Northwood Park, York University neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near the Ontario Legislative Building and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

While some physiotherapy techniques might feel uncomfortable or cause a temporary increase in soreness (similar to muscle soreness after a new workout), especially when working on stiff joints or tight muscles, it should not be excessively or intolerably painful. Your Physiotherapist will discuss what sensations you might expect with different treatments and will always aim to adjust the intensity and techniques to ensure you are as comfortable as possible while still achieving therapeutic benefits. Constant communication about your comfort level is very important.

Is there parking available at or near York University?

Paid parking is available in the parkade adjacent to York University. Limited free street parking may also be found in the vicinity, but please check local signage for restrictions.

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. This is known as direct access. However, some private/extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement of physiotherapy services. It is strongly recommended that you check with your insurance provider before your first appointment to understand their specific requirements.

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 there may be waitlists. It is strongly recommended that you check your private/extended health insurance plan, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Definitely. A key aspect of physiotherapy is not just treating current problems but also preventing future ones. A Physiotherapist can assess your movement, identify potential weaknesses or imbalances that could lead to injury, and provide you with a personalized program of exercises and strategies. This proactive approach is beneficial for athletes, individuals with physically demanding jobs, or anyone looking to maintain long-term musculoskeletal health and avoid recurring pain.

What are York University's operating hours?

Our clinic 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 or check our website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Initial assessment appointments are generally longer to allow for a thorough evaluation and discussion, typically lasting between 45 to 60 minutes. Subsequent follow-up treatment sessions are usually shorter, often ranging from 30 to 45 minutes. However, the duration can vary depending on your specific needs, the complexity of your condition, the type of treatment being provided, and the treatment plan designed by your Physiotherapist.

York University
365 Norman Bethune College, School of Kinesiology & Health Science
Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3

Phone: (416) 736-2100

Michael Boni 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: XXX73

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=ef399651-8c02-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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