P. Cherian Thomas – Physiotherapist | Burlington, ON

P. Cherian Thomas is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Geriatric Physiotherapy Focus / Seniors' Health). Practicing at Cama Woodlands Nursing Home in Burlington, ON, Cherian is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Cherian focuses on the unique health needs of older adults, aiming to improve and maintain mobility, strength, balance, manage age-related conditions like arthritis or osteoporosis, reduce fall risk, and enhance overall quality of life and independence. Cherian serves seniors in the Burlington community.

P. Cherian Thomas completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Christian Medical College (Graduating Class of 1983). With extensive clinical experience, P. Cherian Thomas is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. P. Cherian Thomas has a particular interest and further training in Geriatric Physiotherapy / Seniors' Health.

Cherian demonstrates 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 Burlington community through proactive physiotherapy; empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. P. Cherian Thomas offers consultations in English, Hindi, Malayalam, Tamil.

P. Cherian Thomas provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Common Musculoskeletal

• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): A broad term for common injuries affecting muscles, tendons (tendinitis/tendinopathy), ligaments (sprains), joint capsules (capsulitis), and bursae (bursitis), leading to pain, inflammation, and functional limitations.
• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Disorders affecting hand and wrist function, making daily tasks such as gripping objects, typing, writing, or fine motor activities difficult and painful.
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Pain, weakness, or restricted movement in the shoulder joint, often experienced with overhead activities, lifting, reaching behind your back, or sleeping on the affected side.

Geriatric

• Age-Related Deconditioning / Frailty / Sarcopenia Management: Helping seniors stay strong, mobile, active, and independent for longer through tailored exercise and functional rehabilitation programs.
• Mobility Issues & Gait Disturbances in Seniors: Physiotherapy aimed at improving safe and efficient movement, gait quality (e.g., step length, speed, pattern), balance, and confidence in mobility for seniors. May include assessment and prescription of appropriate mobility aids (e.g., cane, walker).

Vestibular Balance

• Vestibular Hypofunction (Unilateral or Bilateral): Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for inner ear balance problems, involving customized exercises that promote central nervous system compensation and adaptation to the weakened vestibular input.
• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): A common cause of vertigo that is highly treatable with specific physiotherapy maneuvers, such as the Epley maneuver or Semont maneuver, designed to reposition the displaced inner ear crystals.

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. Cherian can assess your needs.

• 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): 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.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Personalized programs incorporating various stretching techniques (e.g., static, dynamic, PNF) to alleviate stiffness, increase tissue extensibility, and promote better posture.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Development of a tailored therapeutic exercise program by your Physiotherapist, focused on your specific rehabilitation needs, strength goals, flexibility improvements, balance, and overall conditioning.
• Balance Training & Falls Prevention Programs: Targeted exercises and strategies designed by your Physiotherapist to improve your stability, coordination, lower limb strength, and body awareness (proprioception), thereby reducing your risk of falls, particularly beneficial for older adults or individuals with balance impairments.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Targeted exercises focused on strengthening the deep abdominal, back, pelvic floor, and diaphragm muscles to provide better support for your spine, improve posture, enhance balance, and increase movement efficiency.

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

• Cherian believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If dealing with pelvic pain or bladder/bowel control issues (for both men and women) is hindering your ability to challenging myself with indoor or outdoor rock climbing, a personalized plan focusing on a renewed sense of vitality and enthusiasm for daily activities can make all the difference.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Cherian's clinic, common concerns like trouble with everyday tasks because of pain or weakness in my hands or grip are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of greater ease in performing overhead activities or reaching. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like playing a full game of recreational hockey with their friends.
• When trouble with a constantly stiff and sore neck, making turning my head a pain is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing participating in water aerobics or other pool-based exercises, physiotherapy with Cherian can help you work towards a noticeable improvement in their gait and walking efficiency. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• Are you finding that recurrent dislocations or a feeling of instability in my shoulder or knee stops you from enjoying using garden tools effectively and without pain? Cherian is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve getting their strength back after surgery or a period of inactivity through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.

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

Cherian's practice is located at Cama Woodlands Nursing Home, situated in the Maple, Dynes neighborhood of Burlington. The clinic is conveniently located near Downtown Burlington Shops and is accessible via Burlington Transit. Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial and integral component of most physiotherapy treatment plans. Your Physiotherapist will prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals. These exercises are designed to complement your in-clinic treatment, help you manage your symptoms effectively between sessions, accelerate your recovery, and empower you with tools for long-term self-management. Your active participation in your home program is key for optimal results.

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 should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your first visit, the Physiotherapist will conduct a detailed evaluation to get a full picture of your condition. This usually involves a thorough discussion about your symptoms, how they impact your daily life, any relevant medical history, and your personal goals for therapy. A physical assessment will then be performed to help pinpoint the cause of your problem and assess your physical capabilities. Afterwards, your therapist will explain their findings, collaborate with you to set treatment goals, and outline a proposed plan of care. You'll likely receive some initial advice, exercises, or hands-on treatment to begin your recovery journey.

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.

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 insurance plans may require a referral for coverage, so it's best to check with your insurance provider before your appointment.

Is physiotherapy covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

OHIP generally does not cover physiotherapy services in private clinics. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available in some situations, such as after hospitalization for certain conditions or through Community Physiotherapy Clinics/Family Health Teams, but eligibility is limited. Check your private insurance coverage as many plans offer significant physiotherapy coverage.

Does Cama Woodlands Nursing Home offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

While we do not offer direct billing at this time, we provide detailed official receipts that you can easily submit to your insurer for reimbursement. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. Always confirm your coverage details with your insurance provider, as plans vary significantly. You are responsible for any portion not covered by your insurance.

Cama Woodlands Nursing Home
159 Panin Rd.
Burlington, ON, L7P 5A6

Phone: (905) 681-6441

P. Cherian Thomas 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: XXX42

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=43bd1f6c-8a02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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