Michael Kabemba – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Michael Kabemba is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Local Physio 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 has a particular focus 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. Michael serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Michael Kabemba completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (Graduating Class of 2019). 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 Geriatric Physiotherapy / Seniors' Health.

Michael's practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Toronto community through proactive physiotherapy. Michael adopts a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Michael Kabemba offers consultations in English, French.

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

Geriatric

• Mobility Issues & Gait Disturbances in Seniors: Addressing specific mobility challenges to enhance safety, reduce fall risk, and improve participation in life activities for older adults.
• Age-Related Deconditioning / Frailty / Sarcopenia Management: Combating the effects of inactivity and the aging process to help prevent or manage frailty, maintain mobility, and improve overall autonomy and quality of life in seniors.

Neurological

• Functional Neurological Disorders (FND) - Movement Retraining: Rehabilitation strategies tailored to the unique and often variable presentation of FND, working collaboratively with the patient to achieve their functional goals.
• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Rehabilitation (Incomplete/Specific Cases): Comprehensive physiotherapy focusing on improving strength in available muscles, enhancing functional mobility, and promoting health and wellness after a spinal cord injury.
• Parkinson's Disease Management & Movement Therapy: Specialized physiotherapy exercises and movement strategies (e.g., LSVT BIG® principles, amplitude-based training, cueing techniques) to improve balance, gait (walking), posture, flexibility, coordination, and overall motor function in individuals with Parkinson's Disease.
• Muscular Dystrophy / Myopathy - Supportive Physiotherapy Care: Physiotherapy aimed at maintaining optimal function, managing contractures (joint stiffness), optimizing mobility (including prescription of mobility aids), adapting activities, and managing respiratory function (if applicable) for individuals with progressive muscle weakness due to muscular dystrophy or other myopathies.

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.

• Fibromyalgia & Widespread Pain Management: Improving daily function, energy levels, and reducing pain sensitivity for individuals with fibromyalgia through a carefully progressed and individualized physiotherapy plan.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Evaluation of your body's basic movements (like squatting, lunging, reaching) to highlight areas for improvement in stability, mobility, and motor control.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Identifying and addressing habitual postures (e.g., from desk work, phone use) or ergonomic factors that may be contributing to your pain or dysfunction.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A thorough evaluation by your Physiotherapist to accurately diagnose movement dysfunctions, injuries, and the underlying sources of your pain.
• Chronic & Persistent Pain Management Programs: A holistic and active approach to managing long-standing pain, empowering you with tools and knowledge for better daily living, increased activity tolerance, and improved mood.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Providing clear guidance on self-care techniques, activity modifications, and beneficial lifestyle adjustments for long-term well-being and injury prevention.

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 Local Physio, 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:

• Are you finding that a 'frozen shoulder' feeling, where my shoulder feels completely stuck stops you from enjoying returning to dancing, whether it's ballet, salsa, or just for fun? Michael is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve getting back to hiking, running, or cycling pain-free and with renewed vigor through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.
• At Michael's physiotherapy practice, individuals with loss of strength in one of my limbs after an injury are guided towards enjoying family vacations and outings with more energy and less pain. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as dressing myself independently and without difficulty, including shoes and socks.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Michael can help you move beyond feeling generally stiff, achy, and less mobile than I used to be. The focus is on achieving personal fitness goals that once seemed out of reach, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as playing in their competitive volleyball league again.
• Rediscover your ability to attending their favorite yoga and pilates classes without limitation without the constant burden of facial weakness or drooping on one side (like Bell's Palsy). Michael focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to less reliance on pain medication, trusting more in their body's ability to heal and function, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.

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

Michael practices at Local Physio, situated in the Christie neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) and is easily accessible via the TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

How can I book an appointment at Local Physio?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (416) 859-6747 during our business hours. Many of our practitioners also offer the convenience of online booking through our website. Our friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable appointment time with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

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 to check your private insurance for coverage, as many plans offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics. Always verify your specific eligibility for any public coverage directly with OHIP.

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 (direct access). However, some private/extended health insurance plans require a referral for reimbursement of physiotherapy services. Check your individual insurance policy before your first appointment.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your first physiotherapy appointment, which includes a detailed assessment and the development of your initial treatment plan, usually takes about 60 minutes. Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled for 30 to 45 minutes. The exact duration of each session will depend on the nature of your treatment and what your Physiotherapist has planned for that specific visit to best help you progress.

Does Local Physio offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Local Physio offers direct billing for most major private insurance companies such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, and Blue Cross. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. Always confirm your specific coverage details, including any annual maximums, per-visit limits, or deductible requirements, directly with your insurance provider, as plans vary significantly. You are responsible for any portion not covered by your insurance.

Is there parking available at or near Local Physio?

Ample free patient parking is available directly in front of and beside our building. Look for the designated patient spots. Always check local signage for any time limits or restrictions.

Local Physio
251 Christie Street, Unit A
Toronto, ON, M6G 1W8

Phone: (416) 859-6747

Michael Kabemba 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: XXX44

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=c841385f-921f-eb11-a813-000d3af42c56

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