Michele K. Delfino – Physiotherapist | Ottawa, ON

Michele K. Delfino is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Play On Pediatric Therapy in Ottawa, ON, Michele Delfino is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Michele Delfino's practice 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. Michele Delfino serves infants, children, and adolescents.

Michele K. Delfino completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Queen's University (Graduating Class of 2020). With clinical experience, Michele Delfino is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Michele Delfino has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Michele Delfino's philosophy centers on a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting; empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Michele Delfino offers consultations in English, French.

Michele K. Delfino provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Joint Pain

• 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.
• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Joint pain, aching, and functional limitation due to the progressive loss of cartilage, which physiotherapy can help manage through exercise, education, and pain relief strategies.

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): A condition where a finger or thumb gets stuck or 'catches' in a bent position, then may snap straight (like pulling a trigger). Caused by inflammation and narrowing of the tendon sheath around the flexor tendon.
• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Specialized physiotherapy for conditions affecting the intricate structures of the hand and wrist, such as fractures (e.g., Colles', scaphoid), tendon lacerations or ruptures (e.g., flexor/extensor tendon repairs), ligament sprains/tears (e.g., skier's thumb, TFCC injuries), repetitive strain injuries, or arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis). Includes both conservative management and post-operative rehabilitation.

Back Neck Pain

• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Often age-related changes leading to pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots, causing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs with walking (neurogenic claudication in lumbar stenosis) or in the arms/hands (cervical stenosis).
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Muscular pain, trigger points, and tension headaches resulting from habitual poor posture, which can be addressed with postural re-education, exercises, and ergonomic advice.

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. Michele Delfino 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: A non-invasive physiotherapy modality that uses sound energy to stimulate cellular activity, enhance circulation, and support tissue recovery from injury or inflammation.
• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: A specialized physiotherapy treatment that uses a traction table or manual techniques to gently decompress spinal structures, relieve pressure, and promote healing.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Utilizing targeted electrical currents to help alleviate pain, manage discomfort, and support healing in conjunction with other physiotherapy interventions.
• 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.
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): Targeted shockwave application to promote tissue regeneration, modulate pain, and improve function in chronic injuries, often with lasting results.

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

• Michele Delfino frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of dealing with ongoing pain and stiffness after a car accident, like whiplash. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets enjoying cycling or swimming regularly without pain or limitation and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like dancing the night away at social events and family celebrations.
• Patients often come to Michele Delfino feeling defeated by trouble with a constantly stiff and sore neck, making turning my head a pain. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving improved joint health and a slowing of degenerative processes through better biomechanics and resuming getting back to golfing 18 holes without their back acting up becomes a realistic and attainable goal.
• The path to recovery from that nagging tennis elbow (or golfer's elbow) that flares up with activity and achieving improved breathing mechanics and capacity through postural correction for being able to perform deep cleaning tasks around the house often starts with expert guidance. Michele Delfino, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.
• Tired of feeling 'off-balance' and worried about falling, especially as I get older interfering with managing the physical demands of their job without constant pain? Michele Delfino uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve improved ability to lift and carry objects correctly and safely and regain your freedom of movement.

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

Michele Delfino's practice at Play On Pediatric Therapy is situated in the Barrhaven (Longfields, Chapman Mills, Half Moon Bay) neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near Billings Bridge Shopping Centre 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.

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 kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows the Physiotherapist to easily access and assess the area being treated, and permits you to move freely for any exercises or movements. For example, shorts are ideal for knee, hip, or ankle issues, while a tank top or loose t-shirt works well for shoulder, neck, or upper back problems. Athletic wear or gym attire is generally a good choice. You may also be provided with a gown if needed.

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.

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Physiotherapist in ON?

In Ontario, you typically do not need a doctor's referral to see a physiotherapist. This is known as direct access. However, while a referral isn't legally required to access physiotherapy services, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a physician's referral for coverage. It is strongly recommended that you check with your insurance provider to understand their specific requirements before your first appointment.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

The number of physiotherapy sessions needed varies greatly depending on individual factors such as the nature and severity of your condition, your overall health, and your response to treatment. After a comprehensive initial assessment, Michele Delfino will provide a better estimate of the number and frequency of sessions required to achieve your goals. Your progress will be reviewed regularly, and the treatment plan will be adjusted as needed.

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

Physiotherapy services in private clinics are generally not covered by OHIP. While publicly funded physiotherapy is available through certain programs (such as post-hospitalization care for specific conditions or for certain demographics), eligibility criteria are strict, and waitlists may be involved. It is essential to check your private or extended health insurance plan for coverage of physiotherapy services in private clinics, as many plans offer significant coverage.

What is Play On Pediatric Therapy's appointment cancellation policy?

We understand that schedules can change unexpectedly. To ensure we can accommodate all our patients efficiently, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer the time slot to other patients who may be waiting for care. A fee may be charged for cancellations with less than 24 hours' notice or missed appointments. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your appointment.

Play On Pediatric Therapy
200 - 10 Green St
Ottawa, ON, K2J 3Z6

Phone: (613) 699-0787

Michele K. Delfino 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: XXX89

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=824a4955-e321-eb11-a813-000d3af42c56

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