Miriam Valentina Mulkewich – Physiotherapist | Burlington, ON

Miriam Valentina Mulkewich is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Fit For Life Physiotherapy in Burlington, ON, Miriam is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Miriam's approach 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. Miriam serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Miriam Valentina Mulkewich completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 1995). With extensive clinical experience, Miriam is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Miriam has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Miriam's practice philosophy centers on a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals; and promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Burlington community through proactive physiotherapy. Miriam offers consultations in English.

Miriam Valentina Mulkewich provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Conservative physiotherapy management for trigger digit, which may include splinting to rest the tendon, specific tendon gliding exercises, activity modification advice, modalities to reduce inflammation, and education to prevent recurrence.
• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Focused physiotherapy care for complex hand and wrist problems, often involving custom splinting or orthosis fabrication, manual therapy (joint and soft tissue mobilization), specific exercises to restore dexterity, strength, and range of motion, scar management, and sensory re-education.

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage and underlying bone, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility in affected joints like the knees, hips, spine, or hands.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Inflammation (tendinitis) or, more commonly, degeneration (tendinosis/tendinopathy) of tendons, leading to localized pain that typically worsens with activity or loading of the tendon.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Injuries to ankle ligaments, typically from twisting or 'rolling' motions, leading to pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Can result in recurrent sprains and chronic instability if not properly rehabilitated.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Common back problems that can impact your posture, ability to perform daily activities, and overall mobility, addressed with targeted physiotherapy.
• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Common knee complaints that can affect your ability to walk, climb stairs, squat, run, or participate in sports, addressed through a tailored physiotherapy program.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): A broad term for common injuries affecting muscles, tendons (tendinitis/tendinopathy), ligaments (sprains), joint capsules (capsulitis), and bursae (bursitis), leading to pain, inflammation, and functional limitations.

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. Miriam can assess your needs.

• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): A form of manual therapy that actively involves you in your treatment, utilizing your body's muscular effort to achieve specific therapeutic effects on restricted joints and shortened soft tissues.
• 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.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Application of precise, passive movements to joints to decrease stiffness, relieve pain, and facilitate easier, more comfortable movement.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Customized exercise plans designed to help you recover from injury, manage chronic conditions, improve physical performance, and achieve your functional goals safely and effectively.
• 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.
• 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.

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

• Many patients have found lasting relief from feeling 'off-balance' and worried about falling, especially as I get older and achieved improved circulation and tissue healing under the skilled care of Miriam. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty with a new lease on life.
• If dealing with pelvic pain or bladder/bowel control issues (for both men and women) is preventing you from fully enjoying maintaining an upright posture while working on their computer for hours, Miriam offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining a deeper understanding of their condition and how to manage it proactively for long-term well-being, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• Are you finding that needing help to get moving again after a long period of illness or inactivity stops you from enjoying sleeping soundly through the night without being woken by pain or discomfort? Miriam is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve building the necessary muscle support for their joints, reducing the risk of re-injury through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.
• It's truly rewarding for Miriam to witness patients conquer loss of strength in one of my limbs after an injury and experience getting back their independence with daily activities and personal care. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in getting back to cycling for leisure or commuting again.

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

Miriam practices at Fit For Life Physiotherapy, situated in the Tyandaga, Aldershot North neighborhood of Burlington. The clinic is conveniently located near Mapleview Shopping Centre and is accessible via Burlington Transit. Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

It's difficult to say exactly how many sessions you'll need without a thorough assessment, as everyone's situation and recovery path is unique. Some acute conditions might resolve in just a few sessions, while more chronic, complex, or significant issues may require a longer period of care to achieve lasting results. Your Physiotherapist will provide an estimated treatment timeline and plan after your first visit, and this will be revisited as your treatment progresses.

I have private health insurance. How does that work with physiotherapy payments?

Many private health insurance plans offer full or partial coverage for registered physiotherapy services. We recommend you contact your insurance provider directly before your first appointment to understand the specifics of your plan. Key things to check are: your annual maximum for physiotherapy, any per-visit limits or co-payments, whether a doctor's referral is required for reimbursement, and if your plan allows for direct billing by the clinic. If Fit For Life Physiotherapy offers direct billing and your plan allows it, we can often bill your insurer directly for the covered portion. You would then be responsible for any co-payment or remaining balance not covered by your plan at the time of service. Please bring your insurance card and all necessary policy details to your first appointment. If direct billing is not possible, we will provide you with an official receipt that you can submit to your insurer.

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.

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

Patients in Ontario can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a physician's referral (this is known as direct access). However, some private/extended health insurance plans do require a referral for reimbursement of physiotherapy services. We strongly advise you to check the specific requirements of your individual insurance policy before your first appointment.

What are Fit For Life Physiotherapy's operating hours?

Fit For Life Physiotherapy is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and some practitioners offer Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. However, hours can vary by practitioner and day, so please call our office or check our website/online booking portal for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

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. We strongly advise checking your private insurance for private clinic coverage.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial and integral component of most physiotherapy treatment plans. Your Physiotherapist will prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals. These exercises are designed to complement your in-clinic treatment, help you manage your symptoms effectively between sessions, accelerate your recovery, and empower you with tools for long-term self-management. Your active participation in your home program is key for optimal results.

Fit For Life Physiotherapy
4 - 18 Plains Road West
Burlington, ON, L7T 0B3

Phone: (905) 333-3488

Miriam Valentina Mulkewich 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: XXX53

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=a1fada09-8c02-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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