Michelle Dianne Thwaites – Physiotherapist | Burlington, ON

Michelle Dianne Thwaites is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Alton Physiotherapy & Sports Clinic in Burlington, ON, Michelle is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Michelle 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. Michelle serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Michelle Dianne Thwaites completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Toronto (Graduating Class of 2006). With extensive clinical experience, Michelle is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Michelle has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Michelle's practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Burlington community through proactive physiotherapy. Michelle employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Michelle empowers patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Michelle offers consultations in English.

Michelle Dianne Thwaites provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Post Surgical

• Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): Physiotherapy rehabilitation after total or partial hip replacement surgery, aimed at restoring mobility, strength, balance, and improving your gait pattern, allowing you to perform daily activities safely and effectively.
• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): Targeted physiotherapy to help you recover from operatively treated fractures, addressing common issues like joint stiffness, muscle weakness, swelling, pain, and functional limitations in the affected limb.
• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): Restoring your ability to perform daily tasks, work, and recreational activities by addressing pain, stiffness, and weakness after your shoulder surgery.

Joint Pain

• 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.
• 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. Michelle can assess your needs.

• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Improving the mobility and health of your nervous system to reduce pain, restore sensation, and enhance overall function.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Cold therapy techniques applied by your therapist to effectively alleviate acute pain, reduce inflammation, and manage muscle soreness or spasm.
• 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): Employing different types of electrotherapy to support your rehabilitation goals, including promoting tissue healing or improving motor control.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Skilled hands-on techniques, including gentle joint mobilizations (smooth, rhythmic movements) and, where appropriate and authorized, joint manipulations (quick, precise thrusts) to restore optimal movement, reduce pain, and improve joint function.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Targeted manual methods performed by your Physiotherapist to release tight or overactive muscles, address fascial restrictions, and alleviate pain arising from soft tissue dysfunction.

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

• Patients struggling with trying to stay as mobile and active as possible while living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) can find dedicated and compassionate support from Michelle. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving successfully avoiding or delaying the need for more invasive treatments or surgery, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as tackling home renovation and DIY projects with confidence.
• Michelle frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of soreness and tightness in my Achilles tendon, especially after exercise. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets a renewed sense of vitality and enthusiasm for daily activities and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like shoveling snow or raking leaves without aggravating their back.
• Michelle believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns) is hindering your ability to simply enjoying leisurely daily walks around their neighborhood for fresh air, a personalized plan focusing on being able to play actively with their children or grandchildren again can make all the difference.
• Tired of that nagging tennis elbow (or golfer's elbow) that flares up with activity interfering with driving for longer periods without neck or back pain? Michelle uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve enjoying less stiffness in the mornings and throughout the day and regain your freedom of movement.

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

Michelle practices at Alton Physiotherapy & Sports Clinic, situated in the Mountainside, Brant Hills neighborhood of Burlington. The clinic is conveniently located near Aldershot Village and is accessible via Burlington Transit. Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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 book an appointment, some private health insurance plans may require one for coverage. It is strongly recommended that you check with your insurance provider before your first appointment to understand their specific requirements for physiotherapy coverage.

Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?

It's helpful to bring your health card, any referral letters from other healthcare providers if you were referred, and any reports or images from relevant medical tests (X-rays, MRIs, etc.) related to your condition. If you have private insurance coverage for physiotherapy, please bring your insurance card or policy details for billing purposes. Comfortable attire that allows for easy movement during the assessment is also recommended.

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

OHIP generally does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available through specific programs (e.g., post-hospitalization for certain conditions, for children/youth, seniors, or through Community Physiotherapy Clinics/Family Health Teams), but eligibility criteria are strict. Most Ontarians will need to rely on private insurance or pay out-of-pocket for physiotherapy services in private clinics. It is crucial to check your private insurance policy and/or contact OHIP directly to verify your specific coverage.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your initial physiotherapy visit will likely be about an hour long to allow for a thorough assessment and discussion of your treatment goals. Follow-up appointments are usually between 30 and 45 minutes, but this can vary depending on your individual needs. Your physiotherapist will advise you on the appropriate appointment length for your care.

What is Alton Physiotherapy & Sports Clinic'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. A fee may be charged for cancellations with less than 24 hours' notice or for missed appointments. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your appointment.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a standard part of most physiotherapy treatment plans. Your physiotherapist will design a program tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals. These exercises complement your in-clinic treatment and help you manage your symptoms, speed your recovery, and learn self-management strategies for long-term results.

Alton Physiotherapy & Sports Clinic
5-4040 Palladium Way
Burlington, ON, L7M 0V6

Phone: (905) 335-6100

Michelle Dianne Thwaites 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: XXX05

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=8441c7b7-8e02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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