Nicole Alaina Gallant – Physiotherapist | Woodstock, ON

Nicole Alaina Gallant is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Woodstock General Hospital in Woodstock, ON, Nicole is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Nicole addresses 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. Nicole serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Nicole Alaina Gallant completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Western University (Graduating Class of 2012). With extensive clinical experience, Nicole is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Nicole has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

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

Nicole Alaina Gallant provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Joint pain, aching, and functional limitation due to the progressive loss of cartilage, which physiotherapy can help manage through exercise, education, and pain relief strategies.
• 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.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Lower back issues that restrict your ability to bend, lift, sit for long periods, or enjoy your usual activities without discomfort.
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Common shoulder problems such as rotator cuff issues (tendinopathy, small tears), impingement syndrome, or adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) significantly affecting arm function and daily comfort.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Neck problems that interfere with your sleep quality, ability to work comfortably (especially at a desk), or perform everyday tasks without pain.

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. Nicole can assess your needs.

• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Progressive resistance training programs designed by your Physiotherapist to improve muscle performance, support joint health, and enhance functional capacity for daily life or sport.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Using controlled isometric and isotonic muscle contractions, as directed by your Physiotherapist, to address joint restrictions and muscle imbalances effectively.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Guided stretching routines and flexibility exercises prescribed by your Physiotherapist, aimed at improving your range of motion, reducing muscle tightness or stiffness, and enhancing overall movement quality.
• 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.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Hands-on physiotherapy focused on mobilizing restricted joints and soft tissues to promote healing, restore normal biomechanics, and alleviate pain.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Structured physical activities and exercises aimed at helping you safely regain strength, stamina, and confidence in your body's abilities, tailored to your current level.

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

• Living with trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury doesn't have to be your norm. Nicole applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards a significantly reduced risk of falling, enhancing safety and independence, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty.
• The journey to restoring normal movement patterns essential for everyday tasks when faced with persistent loss of strength in one of my limbs after an injury is made smoother and more effective with Nicole's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like going on enjoyable fishing or camping trips again.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of needing help to get moving again after a long period of illness or inactivity? Nicole works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of enjoying family vacations and outings with more energy and less pain. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as doing household chores like vacuuming, mopping, or laundry without pain.
• The path to recovery from recovering from a burn and needing help with scar mobility and movement and achieving returning to their workout routine with greater confidence and better performance for playing in their competitive volleyball league again often starts with expert guidance. Nicole, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.

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

Nicole practices at Woodstock General Hospital, situated in a physiotherapy clinic in the central Woodstock neighborhood of Woodstock. The clinic is conveniently located near nearby parks and community recreation facilities and is accessible via local public transit routes. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at Woodstock General Hospital treat?

Our Physiotherapists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes, but is not limited to, issues like back and neck pain (Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains)), joint problems (such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery), sports injuries, and nerve pain. We also have therapists with specialized skills in areas like Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and general physiotherapy. Our treatments often involve Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance, Muscle Energy Techniques (MET), and patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.

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, some private/extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement of physiotherapy services. It is strongly recommended that you check your individual insurance policy before your first appointment.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Initial assessment appointments are generally longer to allow for a thorough evaluation and discussion, typically lasting between 45 to 60 minutes. Subsequent follow-up treatment sessions are usually shorter, often ranging from 30 to 45 minutes. However, the duration can vary depending on your specific needs, the complexity of your condition, the type of treatment being provided, and the treatment plan designed by your Physiotherapist.

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.

What is Woodstock General Hospital'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?

Definitely. A key aspect of physiotherapy is not just treating current problems but also preventing future ones. A Physiotherapist can assess your movement, identify potential weaknesses or imbalances that could lead to injury, and provide you with a personalized program of exercises and strategies. This proactive approach is beneficial for athletes, individuals with physically demanding jobs, or anyone looking to maintain long-term musculoskeletal health and avoid recurring pain.

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. It is strongly advised that you check your private insurance for coverage of 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 the clinic or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

Woodstock General Hospital
310 Juliana Drive
Woodstock, ON, N4V 0A4

Phone: (519) 421-4211

Nicole Alaina Gallant 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: XXX31

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=525a9632-9102-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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