Natalie Katharine Lehto – Physiotherapist | Burlington, ON

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

Natalie Katharine Lehto completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 1998). With extensive clinical experience, Natalie Lehto is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Natalie Lehto has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Natalie Lehto empowers patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results; promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Burlington community through proactive physiotherapy; and maintains a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Natalie Lehto offers consultations in English.

Natalie Katharine Lehto provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Arthritis

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: An autoimmune condition causing chronic inflammation, pain, stiffness, swelling, and potential deformity in multiple joints, often symmetrically. Physiotherapy aims to manage pain, maintain joint function and mobility, improve strength and endurance, provide joint protection strategies, and support self-management.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Helping you regain mobility, reduce discomfort, and improve function in affected joints after a gout episode, as part of your overall gout management plan.

Post Surgical

• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: Specialized physiotherapy following knee ligament reconstruction surgery to ensure a successful recovery, minimize complications (like stiffness or muscle atrophy), and facilitate a safe and confident return to activity and sport, preventing re-injury.
• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): Comprehensive shoulder rehabilitation after surgical intervention, following surgeon-specific protocols, to ensure optimal healing, manage pain and swelling, and restore your arm's functional capacity.
• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): Restoring spinal function, core stability, and body mechanics post-operatively, ensuring a safe progression back to work, hobbies, and an active lifestyle.
• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): Helping you manage pain, improve scar mobility, and regain optimal strength and range of motion in a limb following fracture fixation surgery.

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. Natalie Lehto can assess your needs.

• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Teaching you essential strategies and exercises to manage your symptoms independently, accelerate recovery, and prevent future problems.
• 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.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Application of precise, passive movements to joints to decrease stiffness, relieve pain, and facilitate easier, more comfortable movement.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: A variety of hands-on methods such as therapeutic massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and active release style techniques to reduce muscle tension, break down scar tissue, improve circulation, and enhance tissue flexibility.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Gentle, specific movements and mobilizations designed to address nerve-related pain (like sciatica or carpal tunnel symptoms), tingling, numbness, or restrictions by improving the nerve's ability to glide freely and reducing irritation.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Natalie Lehto, 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. Natalie Lehto frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Patients struggling with that 'pins and needles' feeling that won't go away can find dedicated and compassionate support from Natalie Lehto. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving improved balance and coordination, leading to safer and more confident mobility in seniors, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as being able to carry their baby or toddler without straining their back or arms.
• Physiotherapy with Natalie Lehto can be a transformative turning point for those affected by dealing with ongoing pain and stiffness after a car accident, like whiplash. The shared goal is achieving greater confidence when walking, standing, or navigating challenging environments, paving the way for you to enjoy engaging in volunteer work that might have physical demands and a more active, vibrant life.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from experiencing discomfort, back pain, or pelvic girdle pain during or after pregnancy and achieved enhanced pelvic floor function and control (for relevant conditions) under the skilled care of Natalie Lehto. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as working on detailed woodworking projects in their shop without hand pain with a new lease on life.
• Patients often come to Natalie Lehto feeling defeated by my infant having a tilted head or a flat spot on their head (torticollis/plagiocephaly). With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving improved hand and wrist function for tasks requiring dexterity and resuming maintaining an upright posture while working on their computer for hours becomes a realistic and attainable goal.

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

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

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.

What is Fit For Life Physiotherapy'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 (no-shows) without sufficient notice. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your appointment.

Is there parking available at or near Fit For Life Physiotherapy?

Street parking is generally available on the streets surrounding our clinic. There are also several paid parking lots within a short walking distance. Please check local signage for time limits and restrictions.

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. However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for coverage; it is best to check with your insurance provider before your appointment.

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), but eligibility is strict. Most Ontarians will need to use private insurance or pay out-of-pocket for physiotherapy services in a private clinic. Check your private insurance coverage and eligibility for publicly funded programs.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy involves skilled, hands-on treatments performed by your Physiotherapist as part of your overall physiotherapy plan. These techniques are designed to assess and treat your joints, muscles, and nerves to decrease pain and improve your mobility and function. Examples include specific joint mobilizations to improve movement, soft tissue release techniques to address muscle tightness or scar tissue, and sometimes manipulations (adjustments) if indicated and appropriate for your condition and your therapist's qualifications.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your initial physiotherapy visit will be approximately one hour long. Follow-up sessions are generally between 30 and 45 minutes, but this can vary based on your needs.

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

Phone: (905) 333-3488

Natalie Katharine Lehto 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: XXX40

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=e415ca54-8c02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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