Nancy Jane Kukulka

Nancy Jane Kukulka provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Sports Injury

• Muscle Strains (e.g., Hamstring, Calf, Groin, Quadriceps, Rotator Cuff): Tearing of muscle fibers or the muscle-tendon unit due to overstretching, sudden forceful contraction, or eccentric loading during athletic activity or exertion, commonly known as a 'pulled muscle'.
• Stress Fractures (Activity-Related - Conservative Management/Rehab): Localized bone pain that typically worsens with activity and is relieved by rest, often accompanied by tenderness to touch over the affected bone.
• IT Band Syndrome (Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome): Pain, typically sharp or burning, located on the outside (lateral aspect) of the knee, or sometimes the hip. Common in runners, cyclists, and other endurance athletes, caused by irritation or inflammation of the iliotibial (IT) band as it rubs over bony prominences.
• Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome): Dull or aching pain in the front or inner part of the shin that can become sharp with activity, often felt during or after exercise.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Acute or chronic pain originating from various musculoskeletal sources, such as a pulled muscle (strain), inflamed tendon, or irritated bursa.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Painful neck conditions that can make head movements difficult, sometimes leading to headaches or radiating pain into the shoulders.

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. Nancy Kukulka can assess your needs.

• 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: An in-depth examination to fully understand your specific condition, allowing your Physiotherapist to create an effective and personalized rehabilitation plan.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Personalized programs incorporating various stretching techniques (e.g., static, dynamic, PNF) to alleviate stiffness, increase tissue extensibility, and promote better posture.
• 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.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Nancy Kukulka, 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 The Ottawa Hospital - Rehabilitation Centre, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Nancy Kukulka frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Patients often come to Nancy Kukulka feeling defeated by feeling generally stiff, achy, and less mobile than I used to be. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving implementing practical strategies to avoid re-injury during work or daily life and resuming sleeping soundly through the night without being woken by pain or discomfort becomes a realistic and attainable goal.
• Many find that difficulty getting out of a chair or bed due to stiffness or pain significantly impacts their ability to attending concerts or theatre shows and sitting comfortably throughout. Nancy Kukulka helps patients target feeling equipped with effective self-management strategies and exercises with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• With Nancy Kukulka's help, managing recovering from a concussion and dealing with lingering symptoms like dizziness or headaches to achieve reduced muscle tension and a feeling of greater physical ease becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like carrying a backpack or shoulder bag comfortably.
• Patients struggling with general muscle strains and pulls from overdoing it at the gym or in the garden can find dedicated and compassionate support from Nancy Kukulka. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving enjoying less stiffness in the mornings and throughout the day, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as engaging in volunteer work that might have physical demands.

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

Nancy Kukulka's practice is located at The Ottawa Hospital - Rehabilitation Centre, situated in the Elmvale Acres, Hawthorne Meadows, Billings Bridge neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near Carlingwood 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.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Essentially, physiotherapy helps you get moving and stay moving effectively and comfortably. Whether you're dealing with an acute injury, chronic pain, post-surgical recovery, or a condition affecting your physical abilities, your Physiotherapist will work with you. They'll use their expertise in body mechanics, rehabilitation, and pain management to create a personalized treatment plan involving exercises, hands-on techniques, and practical advice to help you achieve your functional goals and live a more active, fulfilling life.

What is The Ottawa Hospital - Rehabilitation Centre'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 late cancellations (less than 24 hours' notice) or missed appointments without sufficient notice. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your appointment.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes, absolutely! Physiotherapy plays a significant role in injury prevention and managing recurring pain. Your Physiotherapist can identify underlying risk factors such as muscle imbalances, poor movement patterns, postural issues, or biomechanical inefficiencies. By addressing these through targeted exercises, education on proper body mechanics, ergonomic advice, and activity modification, physiotherapy can help reduce your risk of initial injury, prevent re-injury, and manage chronic conditions more effectively, keeping you active and healthy.

Does The Ottawa Hospital - Rehabilitation Centre offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

While we do not offer direct billing at this time, we provide detailed official receipts that you can easily submit to your insurer for reimbursement according to your plan. 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 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. Check your private insurance for private clinic coverage.

How can I book an appointment at The Ottawa Hospital - Rehabilitation Centre?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (613) 737-7350 during our business hours. Our friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable appointment time with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

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. However, some private/extended health insurance plans *do* require one for reimbursement. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your first visit, the Physiotherapist will conduct a detailed evaluation to get a full picture of your condition. This usually involves a thorough discussion about your symptoms, how they impact your daily life, any relevant medical history, and your personal goals for therapy. A physical assessment will then be performed to help pinpoint the cause of your problem and assess your physical capabilities. Afterwards, your therapist will explain their findings, collaborate with you to set treatment goals, and outline a proposed plan of care. You'll likely receive some initial advice, exercises, or hands-on treatment to begin your recovery journey.

The Ottawa Hospital - Rehabilitation Centre
505 Smyth Rd.
Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M6

Phone: (613) 737-7350

Nancy Jane Kukulka 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: XXX88

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=26e866b1-8c02-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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