Mikella Brianne Gauthier – Physiotherapist | Sudbury, ON

Mikella Brianne Gauthier is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Advantage Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Clinic in Sudbury, ON, Mikella Lapierre is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Mikella Lapierre'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. Mikella Lapierre also offers specialized assessment and treatment for dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders caused by inner ear or central vestibular system issues. Mikella Lapierre aims to reduce symptoms, improve stability, and reduce fall risk, serving patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Mikella Brianne Gauthier completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Ottawa (Graduating Class of 2020). With clinical experience, Mikella Lapierre is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Mikella Lapierre has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation and Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Mikella Lapierre employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting; promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Sudbury community through proactive physiotherapy; and a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Mikella Lapierre offers consultations in English, French.

Mikella Brianne Gauthier 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): Physiotherapy to help you regain optimal use of your hand and wrist after an injury, surgery, or due to a chronic condition, enabling you to return to work, hobbies, and daily tasks.
• 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.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Aching, soreness, or sharp pain experienced in the neck, which may include muscle spasms, trigger points, or reduced flexibility.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Weakness, a feeling of the ankle 'giving way' repeatedly, or persistent pain after an initial sprain, indicating a need for targeted physiotherapy to restore stability and function.
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Pain, weakness, or restricted movement in the shoulder joint, often experienced with overhead activities, lifting, reaching behind your back, or sleeping on the affected side.

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: A structured and individualized rehabilitation approach for individuals recovering from a mild traumatic brain injury, guiding a safe and gradual return to school, work, and sport 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. Mikella Lapierre can assess your needs.

• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Education and instruction on effective and safe stretching techniques to help you maintain or improve your body's flexibility and joint mobility.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Targeted exercises using resistance (such as bodyweight, resistance bands, free weights, or gym equipment) to build muscle strength, power, and endurance, tailored to your specific rehabilitation needs or performance goals.
• Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Disorders: Specialized assessment and treatment techniques, such as canalith repositioning maneuvers (e.g., Epley maneuver for Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo - BPPV), to address symptoms of dizziness, vertigo (spinning sensations), and imbalance caused by inner ear or central vestibular system dysfunction.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: A carefully selected set of exercises specific to your condition and abilities, aimed at restoring function, reducing pain, improving movement, and preventing future issues.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Comprehensive exercise plans developed by your Physiotherapist to combat deconditioning, enhance overall physical well-being, and promote an active lifestyle.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: A progressive program designed to build a strong and stable core, improving your body's foundation for all movements and reducing strain on other structures.

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

• Tired of sharp pain shooting down my leg, feeling a lot like sciatica interfering with working on detailed woodworking projects in their shop without hand pain? Mikella Lapierre uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve a better ability to cope with the physical stresses of daily life and regain your freedom of movement.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from difficulty with fine motor skills like buttoning shirts or writing due to hand pain and achieved resuming gardening, hobbies, or household tasks without strain or discomfort under the skilled care of Mikella Lapierre. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as travelling more comfortably on planes, trains, or in cars for longer durations with a new lease on life.
• It's truly rewarding for Mikella Lapierre to witness patients conquer recovering from surgery to my hand or wrist and experience improved overall mobility, making it easier to navigate their home and community. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in enjoying long, challenging hikes on weekends again again.
• Mikella Lapierre 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 feeling energetic enough to engage in social activities in the evenings, a personalized plan focusing on feeling a substantial improvement in their mobility and range of motion for easier movement can make all the difference.

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

Mikella Lapierre practices at Advantage Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Clinic, situated in the New Sudbury neighborhood of Sudbury. The clinic is conveniently located near the New Sudbury Centre and is accessible via GOVA Transit (Greater Sudbury Transit). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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 extended health insurance plans may require a physician's referral for coverage. It is strongly recommended that you check with your insurance provider to determine their specific requirements before your first appointment.

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.

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

Physiotherapy services in private clinics are generally not covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). OHIP may cover physiotherapy in specific circumstances, such as after a hospital stay for certain conditions, or for some children, youth, and seniors through specific programs. However, eligibility requirements are strict and there may be waitlists. It's essential to check your private or extended health insurance plan, as many offer significant coverage for physiotherapy services in private clinics.

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.

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

Some temporary post-treatment soreness can be normal, much like after a good workout. However, if your pain significantly worsens, if you develop new concerning symptoms, or if the discomfort doesn't settle down within a day or two, please call us. Your Physiotherapist would want to know so they can offer guidance and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan. Open communication is key to your successful recovery.

Advantage Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Clinic
2141 Lasalle Blvd. Building A, Unit F
Sudbury, ON, P3A 2A3

Phone: (705) 566-7200

Mikella Brianne Gauthier 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: XXX81

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=82a540f2-7d0d-eb11-a813-000d3af42c56

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