Nancy Lynn Carlson – Physiotherapist | Ottawa, ON

Nancy Lynn Carlson is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Queensway Carleton Hospital in Ottawa, ON, Nancy Carlson is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Nancy Carlson'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. Nancy Carlson serves adults.

Nancy Lynn Carlson completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Queen's University (Graduating Class of 1999). With extensive clinical experience, Nancy Carlson is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Nancy Carlson has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Nancy Carlson's practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Ottawa community through proactive physiotherapy; empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Nancy Carlson offers consultations in English.

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

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Helping to alleviate the symptoms of a catching, locking, or painful finger/thumb through targeted physiotherapy interventions, potentially avoiding the need for injections or surgery in some cases.
• 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.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Damage to the body's movement system, including issues like joint inflammation, ligament tears, or muscle overstretching, often requiring physiotherapy for optimal recovery.
• 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.
• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Aching, burning, sharp pain, or a 'pins and needles' sensation in the wrist, thumb, or hand region, sometimes waking you at night.

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Commonly known as 'wear-and-tear' arthritis, this condition affects various joints, often worsening with age, overuse, or previous injury, and can significantly impact daily function.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Conditions like 'jumper's knee' (patellar tendinopathy), 'swimmer's shoulder' (rotator cuff tendinopathy), or 'tennis elbow' (lateral epicondylitis) caused by tendon issues that limit your ability to perform specific tasks.

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 Carlson 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.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Specialized manual techniques aimed at restoring normal movement and function to peripheral nerves that may be compressed, adhered, or under tension.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Developing muscular strength and endurance to aid in injury recovery, support affected joints, improve biomechanics, and enhance athletic performance or demanding physical tasks.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Specialized workouts to enhance your core strength, stability, and endurance, which are crucial for injury prevention, back health, and efficient performance in daily activities and sports.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Graded exercise programs designed to improve your overall physical fitness, endurance, strength, and functional capacity, especially beneficial after illness, surgery, or periods of prolonged inactivity.
• 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.

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

• The journey to enjoying cycling or swimming regularly without pain or limitation when faced with persistent recurrent dislocations or a feeling of instability in my shoulder or knee is made smoother and more effective with Nancy Carlson's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like setting up and taking down equipment for hobbies or sports.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from dealing with ongoing pain and stiffness after a car accident, like whiplash and achieved enhanced recovery from post-surgical procedures with fewer complications under the skilled care of Nancy Carlson. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as dancing the night away at social events and family celebrations with a new lease on life.
• Physiotherapy with Nancy Carlson can be a transformative turning point for those affected by that grinding or crunching feeling in my knee or shoulder. The shared goal is achieving improved performance in work-related physical demands, paving the way for you to enjoy taking long photography walks to capture nature or cityscapes and a more active, vibrant life.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of pain and difficulty with overhead movements like reaching into a cupboard? Nancy Carlson works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of more comfortable and efficient movement when transitioning between positions (e.g., sit to stand). This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as performing tasks requiring fine motor skills and dexterity with ease.

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

Nancy Carlson practices at Queensway Carleton Hospital, situated in the Bells Corners, Lynwood Village neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near Lord Elgin Hotel and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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.

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

In Ontario, you can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a doctor's referral. This is known as direct access. However, while a referral isn't legally required to see a Physiotherapist, some private/extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement. It is strongly recommended that you check your individual insurance policy's requirements before your first appointment.

How can I book an appointment at Queensway Carleton Hospital?

You can book an appointment by calling the clinic directly at (613) 721-2000 during business hours. The clinic may also offer online booking; please check their website for details. The reception team will assist you in finding a suitable appointment time.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

Physiotherapy should not be painful. While some discomfort or stretching sensation is possible, especially initially, it should not be distressing or harmful. Your Physiotherapist will adjust treatments to your comfort level. The goal is to make you feel better, not worse.

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

Some temporary post-treatment soreness is normal. However, if your pain significantly worsens, you develop new symptoms, or discomfort persists for more than a day or two, contact the clinic immediately. Your Physiotherapist can provide guidance and adjust your care plan.

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

OHIP generally does NOT cover physiotherapy services in private outpatient clinics. 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 with OHIP directly and always verify your private/extended health insurance coverage, as many plans offer significant physiotherapy coverage.

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

Bring your health card (OHIP card, if applicable), any relevant medical information (doctor's referral, imaging reports), a medication list, and your insurance card (if using private insurance). Wear comfortable clothing suitable for movement.

What is Queensway Carleton Hospital's appointment cancellation policy?

We request at least 24 hours' notice for cancellations or rescheduling. A fee may be charged for late cancellations or missed appointments. Contact the clinic as soon as possible if you need to change your appointment.

Queensway Carleton Hospital
3045 Baseline Rd.
Ottawa, ON, K2H 8P4

Phone: (613) 721-2000

Nancy Lynn Carlson 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=dd38e984-8c02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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