Paula Joy Hepburn – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Paula Joy Hepburn is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at UHN Toronto Rehab (University Centre) in Toronto, ON, Paula Joy Hepburn is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Paula Joy Hepburn's focus is assisting individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life after neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. Paula Joy Hepburn serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Paula Joy Hepburn completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 2020). With clinical experience, Paula Joy Hepburn is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Paula Joy Hepburn has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Neurological Physiotherapy.

Paula Joy Hepburn maintains a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting; a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Paula Joy Hepburn offers consultations in English.

Paula Joy Hepburn provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Neurological

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Symptom Management & Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy support for the physical challenges of Multiple Sclerosis, focusing on maximizing mobility, safety, and participation in daily life.
• Facial Palsy / Bell's Palsy Rehabilitation: Targeted exercises and techniques provided by a Physiotherapist to manage symptoms of facial palsy and support optimal recovery of facial muscle control.
• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Rehabilitation (Incomplete/Specific Cases): Comprehensive physiotherapy focusing on improving strength in available muscles, enhancing functional mobility, and promoting health and wellness after a spinal cord injury.

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.

Peripheral Nerve

• Nerve Entrapments / Compressions (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Sciatica, Meralgia Paresthetica): Addressing conditions affecting nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, aiming to relieve pressure on the nerve, reduce inflammation, restore normal nerve function, and alleviate symptoms.
• Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic, Chemotherapy-Induced, Idiopathic): Addressing the physical consequences of nerve damage in the limbs through targeted exercises (e.g., for balance, strength, desensitization), sensory re-education, and advice on appropriate footwear or assistive devices.

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. Paula Joy Hepburn can assess your needs.

• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Gentle, active manual therapy techniques where you use your own specific muscle contractions against your therapist's controlled resistance to improve joint mobility, lengthen tight tissues, and reduce pain.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Customized strength training to address specific weaknesses identified in your assessment, helping to correct imbalances, improve movement efficiency, and achieve your physical objectives.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Skilled hands-on techniques, including gentle joint mobilizations (smooth, rhythmic movements) and, where appropriate and authorized, joint manipulations (quick, precise thrusts) to restore optimal movement, reduce pain, and improve joint function.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Personalized programs incorporating various stretching techniques (e.g., static, dynamic, PNF) to alleviate stiffness, increase tissue extensibility, and promote better posture.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Application of skilled soft tissue techniques to manage pain, stiffness, and improve function in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Paula Joy Hepburn, 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 UHN Toronto Rehab (University Centre), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Paula Joy Hepburn frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Struggling with the frustration of tendonitis pain flaring up in my shoulder, knee, elbow, or foot? Paula Joy Hepburn develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving a noticeable reduction in daily discomfort, making everyday tasks easier and more enjoyable. This is key to helping you get back to doing tackling home renovation and DIY projects with confidence with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• Many find that managing stiffness, tremors, and movement challenges with Parkinson's disease significantly impacts their ability to attending and enjoying their children's or grandchildren's sporting events. Paula Joy Hepburn helps patients target feeling more positive, capable, and optimistic about their physical health with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from that burning pain between my shoulder blades from too much computer work and achieved running their usual distance comfortably and with improved form under the skilled care of Paula Joy Hepburn. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as safely meeting the lifting requirements at their workplace with a new lease on life.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Paula Joy Hepburn can help you move beyond a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns). The focus is on the ability to sit for longer periods (e.g., at a desk, in a car) without significant discomfort, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as competing effectively in their curling league games.

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

Paula Joy Hepburn practices at UHN Toronto Rehab (University Centre), situated in the Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Union Station and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy refers to specialized hands-on techniques used by a Physiotherapist to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. This can include joint mobilization (gentle, rhythmic gliding movements), joint manipulation (skilled, high-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts, where appropriate and within the therapist's scope and with your consent), various soft tissue mobilization techniques (like massage, myofascial release, trigger point release), and neural mobilization (gentle techniques to improve nerve movement). The primary goals are to reduce pain, improve range of motion, restore optimal joint mechanics, reduce muscle tension, and enhance tissue repair and function.

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; check your policy before your appointment.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy is a science-based profession focused on restoring movement and function after injury, illness, or disability. Your physiotherapist uses techniques like therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, education, and advice to help you manage your health and achieve your physical goals.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

While some techniques may feel uncomfortable or cause temporary soreness, treatment should not be excessively painful. Your Physiotherapist will discuss what to expect and adjust the intensity to ensure your comfort.

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

Many private insurance plans cover physiotherapy. Contact your provider before your appointment to understand your coverage, including annual maximums, per-visit limits, referral requirements, and direct billing options. Bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes! Physiotherapy can identify risk factors like muscle imbalances and poor movement patterns. By addressing these, physiotherapy can reduce your risk of injury and manage chronic pain.

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

Temporary soreness is normal, but significant worsening, new symptoms, or prolonged soreness requires contacting the clinic or your Physiotherapist immediately.

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

OHIP generally does not cover physiotherapy in private clinics. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available in specific situations (e.g., post-hospitalization), but eligibility is strict. Check your private insurance for coverage.

UHN Toronto Rehab (University Centre)
550 University Ave.
Toronto, ON, M5G 2A2

Phone: (416) 597-3422

Paula Joy Hepburn 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: XXX88

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=acc7e888-8519-eb11-a813-000d3af42c56

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