Nicole Breanne Carrao is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Vestibular & Balance Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at Flex Physiotherapy in Stratford, ON, Nicole Carrao is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Nicole Carrao offers specialized assessment and treatment for dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders caused by inner ear or central vestibular system issues. Nicole Carrao aims to reduce symptoms, improve stability, and reduce fall risk, serving patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.
Nicole Breanne Carrao completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Alberta (Graduating Class of 2016). With clinical experience, Nicole Carrao is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Nicole Carrao has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation.
Nicole Carrao employs a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Nicole Carrao utilizes a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Nicole Carrao has a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Nicole Carrao offers consultations in English.
Nicole Breanne Carrao provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:
Neurological
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Symptom Management & Rehabilitation: Helping individuals with MS stay active, manage symptoms effectively, maintain independence for as long as possible, and adapt to changes in their condition.
- Functional Neurological Disorders (FND) - Movement Retraining: Physiotherapy as a key component of a multidisciplinary approach for Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder (FND), focusing on movement retraining, normalizing movement patterns that may be abnormal (e.g., tremor, weakness, gait disturbance, dystonia), and improving functional abilities.
- Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Rehabilitation (Incomplete/Specific Cases): Specialized neurorehabilitation programs designed by a Physiotherapist to improve physical function, optimize movement potential, and enhance quality of life for individuals living with an SCI.
- Stroke (CVA) Rehabilitation: Comprehensive neurological rehabilitation provided by a Neuro Physiotherapist to help individuals regain independence, maximize their recovery potential, and adapt to any residual impairments following a stroke.
Concussion
- Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: A structured and individualized rehabilitation approach for individuals recovering from a mild traumatic brain injury, guiding a safe and gradual return to school, work, and sport activities.
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 Carrao can assess your needs.
- Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Active patient participation through guided, gentle muscle contractions to restore normal joint play, reduce muscle guarding, and improve tissue length.
- Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Management & Rehabilitation: A structured and individualized rehabilitation approach to help you navigate your recovery after a concussion, promoting symptom resolution and safe resumption of activities.
- 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.
- Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Disorders: Effective therapy for various inner ear and balance disorders, including BPPV, vestibular neuritis/labyrinthitis, unilateral or bilateral vestibular hypofunction, Meniere's disease (symptom management), and persistent postural-perceptual dizziness (PPPD).
- Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Hands-on treatment focusing on your body's soft tissues to restore pliability, reduce discomfort, and optimize movement quality.
- Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Application of precise, passive movements to joints to decrease stiffness, relieve pain, and facilitate easier, more comfortable movement.
Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Nicole Carrao, 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 Flex Physiotherapy, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Nicole Carrao frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- At Nicole Carrao's physiotherapy practice, individuals with clicking, popping, or pain in my jaw (TMJ issues) when I eat or talk are guided towards a smoother and stronger postpartum recovery. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as playing fetch with their dog in the park for an extended time.
- Struggling with the frustration of that grinding or crunching feeling in my knee or shoulder? Nicole Carrao develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving reduced swelling and inflammation in injured areas. This is key to helping you get back to doing doing household chores like vacuuming, mopping, or laundry without pain with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
- Patients struggling with wrist pain and tingling, possibly from carpal tunnel syndrome, especially at night can find dedicated and compassionate support from Nicole Carrao. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving feeling equipped with effective self-management strategies and exercises, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as performing tasks requiring fine motor skills and dexterity with ease.
- Many individuals seek help from Nicole Carrao, their physiotherapist, when a 'frozen shoulder' feeling, where my shoulder feels completely stuck starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve getting their strength back after surgery or a period of inactivity, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like playing their musical instrument (guitar, piano, violin, etc.) for extended periods.
Your personalized physiotherapy plan, developed with Nicole Carrao, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.
Nicole Carrao practices at Flex Physiotherapy, a physiotherapy clinic in the central Stratford neighborhood of Stratford, ON. The clinic is conveniently located near nearby parks and community recreation facilities and is accessible via local public transit routes. Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.
- Is there parking available at or near Flex Physiotherapy?
- Paid parking is available in the parkade adjacent to our building. Limited free street parking may also be found in the vicinity, but please check local signage for restrictions.
- 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 Flex Physiotherapy or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.
- What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?
- Comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement is best for your physiotherapy appointment – think about what you might wear to a gym or for light exercise. If you're being treated for a lower-body issue (like hip or knee pain), shorts are very helpful. For upper-body issues (like shoulder or neck pain), a tank top or loose t-shirt is suitable so the Physiotherapist can properly examine and treat the area.
- What are Flex Physiotherapy's operating hours?
- Flex Physiotherapy is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. However, hours can vary by practitioner and day, so please call our office at (519) 273-2225 or check our website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.
- 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 require a referral for reimbursement of physiotherapy services. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.
- How can I book an appointment at Flex Physiotherapy?
- You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (519) 273-2225 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.
Flex Physiotherapy
221 Oak Street
Stratford, ON, N5A 8A1
Phone: (519) 273-2225
Nicole Breanne Carrao 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: XXX17
Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=76ad16a6-cbdc-ea11-a813-000d3af42c56
Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.