Natasha Lee Foley – Physiotherapist | Waterloo, ON

Natasha Lee Foley is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Vestibular & Balance Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at VOR Physiotherapy - Vestibular & Orthopaedic Rehabilitation in Waterloo, ON, Natasha Foley is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Natasha Foley offers specialized assessment and treatment for dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders caused by inner ear or central vestibular system issues. Natasha Foley aims to reduce symptoms, improve stability, and reduce fall risk, serving patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Natasha Lee Foley completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Queen's University (Graduating Class of 2013). With clinical experience, Natasha Foley is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Natasha Foley has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation.

Natasha Foley empowers patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Natasha Foley adopts a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Natasha Foley offers consultations in English, French.

Natasha Lee Foley provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Vestibular Balance

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Resolving the spinning sensations caused by BPPV quickly and effectively through targeted canalith repositioning techniques, often providing immediate relief.
• Vestibular Hypofunction (Unilateral or Bilateral): Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for inner ear balance problems, involving customized exercises that promote central nervous system compensation and adaptation to the weakened vestibular input.
• Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD / 3PD): Vestibular rehabilitation therapy, including habituation exercises, sensory re-weighting, and balance training, often as part of a multidisciplinary approach (which may include medication or CBT), for managing the symptoms of PPPD/3PD.
• General Balance Deficits and Increased Fall Risk: Physiotherapy aimed at improving your balance, coordination, lower limb strength, reaction time, and confidence to reduce your risk of falling and enhance safe mobility in your home and community.

Neurological

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Symptom Management & Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy support for the physical challenges of Multiple Sclerosis, focusing on maximizing mobility, safety, and participation in daily life.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) / Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy addressing physical impairments following a traumatic brain injury (TBI) or acquired brain injury (ABI), including issues with balance, coordination, strength, mobility, spasticity, endurance, and cognitive-physical integration.
• Muscular Dystrophy / Myopathy - Supportive Physiotherapy Care: Gentle exercises, stretching programs, and strategies to preserve strength and function, and to manage secondary complications associated with muscular dystrophies.

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. Natasha Foley can assess your needs.

• Postural Assessment and Correction: Education on optimal body mechanics and corrective strategies to improve your posture during daily activities, work, and recreation.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: An in-depth examination to fully understand your specific condition, allowing your Physiotherapist to create an effective and personalized rehabilitation plan.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Identifying inefficient or compensatory movement patterns that could be contributing to your pain or hindering your physical performance.
• Rehabilitation for Age-Related Deconditioning & Loss of Autonomy: Targeted physiotherapy programs to help seniors regain strength, endurance, balance, and functional abilities after an illness, surgery, hospitalization, or a period of inactivity or decline.
• Geriatric Physiotherapy & Seniors' Health: Tailored exercise prescription, education on safe movement, manual therapy (gentle techniques), and functional training to help seniors maintain their independence, enhance safety in their home and community, and promote active and healthy aging.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Empowering you with a clear understanding of your condition, its causes, and practical tools for effective self-management and lasting relief.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Natasha Foley, 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 VOR Physiotherapy - Vestibular & Orthopaedic Rehabilitation, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Natasha Foley frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Struggling with the frustration of trouble with everyday tasks because of pain or weakness in my hands or grip? Natasha Foley develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving improved balance and coordination, leading to safer and more confident mobility in seniors. This is key to helping you get back to doing playing a full game of recreational hockey with their friends with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Natasha Foley's clinic, common concerns like an awkward gait or limping when I walk are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of a reduction in nerve-related symptoms like tingling or numbness. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like engaging in detailed crafting, sewing, or knitting hobbies for hours.
• Many find that that burning pain between my shoulder blades from too much computer work significantly impacts their ability to reaching for items on high shelves or in cupboards without shoulder strain. Natasha Foley helps patients target enjoying family vacations and outings with more energy and less pain with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of difficulty coordinating my movements, feeling clumsy? Natasha Foley works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of achieving personal fitness goals that once seemed out of reach. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as carrying a backpack or shoulder bag comfortably.

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

Natasha Foley's practice, VOR Physiotherapy - Vestibular & Orthopaedic Rehabilitation, is located in the University District (University of Waterloo, Wilfrid Laurier University) neighborhood of Waterloo. The clinic is conveniently located near Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery and is accessible via Grand River Transit (GRT) (Bus and ION Light Rail). Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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. Always check your private/extended health insurance plans, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

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

It's not uncommon to experience some temporary soreness or a mild increase in symptoms after certain physiotherapy treatments, especially in the initial stages or if you're starting new exercises. This usually subsides within 24-48 hours. However, if you experience a significant or sharp increase in pain, new or worsening neurological symptoms (like numbness, tingling, or weakness), or if your soreness lasts longer than expected, it's important to contact VOR Physiotherapy - Vestibular & Orthopaedic Rehabilitation or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, in almost all cases, you will receive a customized home exercise program. These exercises are carefully chosen by your Physiotherapist to specifically target your issues and help you achieve your functional goals faster and more effectively. Performing them as recommended is very important for your progress and for maintaining the improvements you make during your clinic visits.

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 (direct access). However, some private/extended health insurance plans require a referral for reimbursement. Check your insurance policy 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.

VOR Physiotherapy - Vestibular & Orthopaedic Rehabilitation
Unit A8 - 550 Parkside Dr
Waterloo, ON, N2L 5V4

Phone: (519) 208-0150

Natasha Lee Foley 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: XXX01

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=6e864e80-9102-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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