Nicole Igel – Physiotherapist | Port Hope, ON

Nicole Igel is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Port Hope Sports & Rehabilitation Centre in Port Hope, ON, Nicole Igel is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Nicole Igel 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 Igel also provides specialized assessment and treatment for conditions related to the pelvic floor and surrounding region for all genders. This includes issues such as incontinence, pelvic pain, pelvic organ prolapse, sexual dysfunction, and pre/post-natal concerns. Nicole Igel serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Nicole Igel completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Queen's University (Graduating Class of 1995). With extensive clinical experience, Nicole Igel is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Nicole Igel has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Pelvic Health Physiotherapy and Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Nicole Igel employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Nicole Igel promotes preventative care and long-term wellness for the Port Hope community through proactive physiotherapy. Nicole Igel offers consultations in English, French.

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

Pelvic Health

• Prostatitis Symptoms / Chronic Pelvic Pain in Men (Supportive Care): Addressing male pelvic pain, which can manifest as testicular pain, penile pain, or suprapubic discomfort, through specialized physiotherapy techniques targeting musculoskeletal and neuromuscular dysfunctions.
• Urinary Incontinence (Stress, Urge, Mixed - Men & Women): Addressing bladder control problems and improving continence with the help of a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist, focusing on restoring pelvic floor muscle function.
• Constipation / Bowel Dysfunction (Pelvic Floor Related): Addressing functional constipation, fecal incontinence, or other bowel issues that are related to pelvic floor muscle dysfunction.
• Painful Intercourse (Dyspareunia) / Vaginismus / Genito-Pelvic Pain/Penetration Disorder: Specialized physiotherapy by a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist for sexual pain disorders, focusing on desensitization techniques, manual therapy to release tight pelvic floor muscles and trigger points, specific relaxation and stretching exercises, dilator therapy guidance (if appropriate), and pain education.

Arthritis

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Helping you live well with rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory arthropathies through targeted physiotherapy interventions designed to manage symptoms, preserve function, and promote overall well-being.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Exercises and advice to manage the impact of gout on your joints, improve mobility, and reduce the likelihood of long-term joint damage.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): A physiotherapy approach to address the unique challenges of AS, aiming to keep you as mobile and active as possible and support your spinal health and overall well-being.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): An inflammatory arthritis that can affect some people with psoriasis (a skin condition), causing joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and sometimes affecting tendons (enthesitis) and ligaments. Can affect small or large joints, often asymmetrically, and sometimes the spine.

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 Igel can assess your needs.

• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Providing clear guidance on self-care techniques, activity modifications, and beneficial lifestyle adjustments for long-term well-being and injury prevention.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Education on optimal body mechanics and corrective strategies to improve your posture during daily activities, work, and recreation.
• Pre-Natal (Pregnancy) Physiotherapy: Safe and effective exercise guidance, postural education, core strengthening (including pelvic floor preparation), and body mechanics training for expectant mothers to prepare for childbirth, manage pregnancy-related discomfort, and maintain fitness.
• Post-Natal (Postpartum) Rehabilitation: A personalized physiotherapy program to guide your physical recovery after having a baby, whether by vaginal delivery or C-section, focusing on your specific needs and goals.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A thorough evaluation by your Physiotherapist to accurately diagnose movement dysfunctions, injuries, and the underlying sources of your pain.
• 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 Nicole Igel, 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 Port Hope Sports & Rehabilitation Centre, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Nicole Igel frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Many patients have found lasting relief from knee pain, especially when going up/down stairs or after a run and achieved a smoother and stronger postpartum recovery under the skilled care of Nicole Igel. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as walking their children to school or the park with a new lease on life.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Nicole Igel's clinic, common concerns like soreness and tightness in my Achilles tendon, especially after exercise are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of a better understanding of ergonomics for their work and home environment. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like enduring their daily commute, whether driving or on public transit, without stiffness.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of facial weakness or drooping on one side (like Bell's Palsy)? Nicole Igel works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of improved ability to lift and carry objects correctly and safely. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as using garden tools effectively and without pain.
• The journey to resuming gardening, hobbies, or household tasks without strain or discomfort when faced with persistent that burning pain between my shoulder blades from too much computer work is made smoother and more effective with Nicole Igel's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like participating in water aerobics or other pool-based exercises.

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

Nicole Igel's practice is located at Port Hope Sports & Rehabilitation Centre, a physiotherapy clinic in the central Port Hope neighborhood of Port Hope. 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 kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows the Physiotherapist to easily access and assess the area being treated, and permits you to move freely for any exercises or movements. For example, shorts are ideal for knee, hip, or ankle issues, while a tank top or loose t-shirt works well for shoulder, neck, or upper back problems. Athletic wear or gym attire is generally a good choice. You may also be provided with a gown if needed.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

The first physiotherapy session is primarily an in-depth assessment. Expect to spend time talking with your Physiotherapist about your specific issue, its history, and your overall health background. Your therapist will then perform various physical tests to assess your movement, strength, and any areas of concern. The main goal of this first visit is to understand your condition fully so that a tailored and effective treatment plan can be developed collaboratively with you. You might also receive your first set of home exercises or some initial hands-on care to start the healing process.

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 to check your private insurance for private clinic coverage.

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.

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.

Port Hope Sports & Rehabilitation Centre
45 Henderson Street
Port Hope, ON, L1A 0C6

Phone: (905) 885-5111

Nicole Igel 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: XXX51

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=7efada09-8c02-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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