Nicole Terrier – Physiotherapist | Ottawa, ON

Nicole Terrier is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at LifeMark Physiotherapy in Ottawa, ON, Nicole Terrier is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Nicole Terrier 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 Terrier serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Nicole Terrier completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McGill University (Graduating Class of 1988). With extensive clinical experience, Nicole Terrier is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Nicole Terrier has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Nicole Terrier employs a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Nicole Terrier maintains a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Nicole Terrier offers consultations in English, French.

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

Joint Pain

• 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.
• 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.

Arthritis

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Tailored exercise programs (including range of motion, strengthening, and low-impact aerobic exercises), pain relief modalities, and education on joint protection techniques and energy conservation for individuals with RA or similar conditions.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): A type of chronic inflammatory arthritis primarily affecting the spine (especially the sacroiliac joints and vertebrae), leading to pain, stiffness, and potential fusion of vertebrae, which can result in a stooped posture if not managed.

Post Surgical

• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): Supportive physiotherapy to aid your recovery and help you manage symptoms after back or neck surgery, focusing on education, safe movement strategies, and specific exercises.
• Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): A tailored physiotherapy program following hip joint replacement to optimize your recovery, manage pain, ensure adherence to any precautions, and facilitate a return to an active lifestyle.
• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: Guiding your rehabilitation journey after ACL or other ligament surgery, from early post-operative care to advanced sport-specific training and return-to-play testing.

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 Terrier can assess your needs.

• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Application of various forms of electrical stimulation, such as Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) for muscle strengthening and re-education, or Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) to assist with movement, as prescribed by your Physiotherapist.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: A non-invasive physiotherapy modality that uses sound energy to stimulate cellular activity, enhance circulation, and support tissue recovery from injury or inflammation.
• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: Therapeutic traction for the cervical (neck) or lumbar (low back) spine, used by physiotherapists to help reduce pain, decompress nerve roots, and improve symptoms associated with conditions like disc herniations, sciatica, or spinal stenosis.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: Application of therapeutic heat to prepare tissues for exercise, manual therapy, or stretching, or to manage chronic muscle soreness and joint stiffness.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: The application of specific wavelengths of light energy (cold laser) by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and accelerate tissue repair and regeneration at a cellular level.
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): Targeted shockwave application to promote tissue regeneration, modulate pain, and improve function in chronic injuries, often with lasting results.

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

• Don't let shoulder pain that makes simple things like lifting my arm or reaching overhead difficult dictate what you can and cannot do. Nicole Terrier offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at a reduction in nerve-related symptoms like tingling or numbness, helping you reclaim being able to kneel or squat down to play with pets or children and enjoy a more functional life.
• Physiotherapy with Nicole Terrier can be a transformative turning point for those affected by recovering from a burn and needing help with scar mobility and movement. The shared goal is achieving a deeper understanding of their condition and how to manage it proactively for long-term well-being, paving the way for you to enjoy being able to carry their baby or toddler without straining their back or arms and a more active, vibrant life.
• Many individuals seek help from Nicole Terrier, their physiotherapist, when difficulty with fine motor skills like buttoning shirts or writing due to hand pain starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve improved overall mobility, making it easier to navigate their home and community, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like participating in community events and social gatherings more actively.
• Rediscover your ability to managing shopping trips and carrying bags without excessive fatigue or pain without the constant burden of widespread muscle pain and fatigue that my doctor thinks might be fibromyalgia. Nicole Terrier focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to restored joint function, leading to smoother and more coordinated movements, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.

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

Nicole Terrier practices at LifeMark Physiotherapy, situated in the Britannia, Bayshore, Crystal Beach neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near Sparks Street Mall and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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.

How can I book an appointment at LifeMark Physiotherapy?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (613) 721-2120 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.

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Physiotherapist in ON?

In Ontario, you can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a physician's referral (direct access). However, some private/extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

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

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.

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. Check your private insurance for private clinic coverage.

I have private health insurance. How does that work with physiotherapy payments?

Many private health insurance plans offer full or partial coverage for registered physiotherapy services. Contact your insurer before your first appointment to understand your plan's specifics (annual maximum, per-visit limits, co-payments, referral requirements, and direct billing options). If LifeMark Physiotherapy offers direct billing and your plan allows it, we can bill your insurer directly for the covered portion. Otherwise, we'll provide a receipt for you to submit to your insurer.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

This depends on many factors. After your initial assessment, your Physiotherapist will give you a better idea of the anticipated number of sessions and visit frequency needed to achieve your goals. We'll regularly review your progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

LifeMark Physiotherapy
Suite 12 - 2121 Carling Ave.
Ottawa, ON, K2B 7E9

Phone: (613) 721-2120

Nicole Terrier 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: XXX27

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=7cccc877-8f02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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