Nicole Pauline Obias Prieto – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Nicole Pauline Obias Prieto is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators in Toronto, ON, Nicole Prieto is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Nicole Prieto's focus is providing comprehensive assessment and treatment for a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal injuries, pain conditions, and movement dysfunctions to help patients of all ages restore function, manage pain, and improve their quality of life. Nicole Prieto serves a diverse range of patients, tailoring her approach to meet each individual's unique needs and goals.

Nicole Pauline Obias Prieto completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of the Philippines (Graduating Class of 2011). With extensive clinical experience, Nicole Prieto is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Nicole Prieto has a particular interest and further training in areas such as General Physiotherapy Practice and general physiotherapy.

Nicole Prieto's practice philosophy centers around a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best possible care. Nicole Prieto adopts a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Nicole Prieto empowers patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Nicole Prieto offers consultations in English, Tagalog.

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

Sports Injury

• IT Band Syndrome (Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome): Sharp or burning pain on the outer side of the knee that often starts gradually and worsens with continued activity, sometimes radiating up the thigh or down the leg.
• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee / Anterior Knee Pain): A common overuse injury in active individuals and athletes, sometimes referred to as 'runner's knee' or 'anterior knee pain', often related to biomechanical issues in how the kneecap tracks.

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage and underlying bone, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility in affected joints like the knees, hips, spine, or hands.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Persistent tendon pain that can interfere with your sports, work, or daily activities, often requiring specific loading programs and advice from a physiotherapist for effective management.

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 Prieto 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.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Using therapeutic ultrasound as an adjunct treatment to help reduce pain, decrease inflammation, break down scar tissue, and accelerate the repair of injured soft tissues.
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): The application of focused acoustic waves (Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy) by a trained Physiotherapist to treat chronic tendon issues (e.g., plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, Achilles tendinopathy), calcific tendinosis, and other persistent musculoskeletal conditions.
• 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.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): A systematic screening process, such as FMS™ or SFMA™ (if your Physiotherapist is certified), to understand how you move and guide preventative or corrective exercise programs.
• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: A specialized physiotherapy treatment that uses a traction table or manual techniques to gently decompress spinal structures, relieve pressure, and promote healing.

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

• Many individuals seek help from Nicole Prieto, their physiotherapist, when recovering from a painful and limiting work-related injury (WCB/CNESST/WorkSafe claim) starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve a better understanding of ergonomics for their work and home environment, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like going on birdwatching outings in various terrains.
• Nicole Prieto frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of trouble with everyday tasks because of pain or weakness in my hands or grip. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets a renewed sense of vitality and enthusiasm for daily activities and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like travelling more comfortably on planes, trains, or in cars for longer durations.
• If difficulty with fine motor skills like buttoning shirts or writing due to hand pain is preventing you from fully enjoying managing shopping trips and carrying bags without excessive fatigue or pain, Nicole Prieto offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining getting back to hiking, running, or cycling pain-free and with renewed vigor, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• Physiotherapy with Nicole Prieto can be a transformative turning point for those affected by dealing with pelvic pain or bladder/bowel control issues (for both men and women). The shared goal is achieving understanding how to prevent future flare-ups and manage their condition long-term, paving the way for you to enjoy keeping up with their team during our weekly soccer match and a more active, vibrant life.

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

Nicole Prieto practices at Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators, situated in the Kingsway, Montgomery's Inn, Old Mill North neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near St. Lawrence Hall and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). 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 Ontarians. 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 plan, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

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 types of conditions do Physiotherapists at Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators treat?

Our Physiotherapists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. This includes, but is not limited to, issues like back and neck pain, joint problems (such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery), sports injuries, and nerve pain. We also have therapists with specialized skills in areas like pelvic health and other general physiotherapy areas. Our treatments often involve manual therapy, exercise prescription, and patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.

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 Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

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 physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession dedicated to helping people of all ages improve their movement, function, and overall well-being. A registered Physiotherapist uses evidence-based techniques like targeted exercise, hands-on manual therapy, and personalized education to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of injuries, pain conditions, and physical impairments affecting your muscles, bones, joints, nerves, and even your cardiorespiratory system. It can help you reduce pain, increase mobility and strength, recover from surgery, prevent future injuries, and enhance your quality of life.

Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators
1243 Islington Avenue
Toronto, ON, M8X 1Y9

Phone: (416) 234-8800

Nicole Pauline Obias Prieto 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: XXX77

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=6301ce2f-9402-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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