Reuben Mathew Thomas – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Reuben Thomas is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Centre in Toronto, ON, Reuben Thomas is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Reuben Thomas focuses on addressing 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. Reuben Thomas serves adults.

Reuben Thomas completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 2018). With clinical experience, Reuben Thomas is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Reuben Thomas has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Reuben Thomas employs a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals; 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. Reuben Thomas offers consultations in English.

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

Common Musculoskeletal

• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Common ankle injuries causing acute pain, persistent swelling, and instability, significantly affecting your ability to walk, run, or participate in sports.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: Damage or tearing of muscle fibers, ranging from a mild overstretch (Grade 1 strain) to a partial or complete rupture (Grade 2 or 3 tear), typically caused by sudden forceful contraction, excessive stretch, or direct trauma.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Common back problems that can impact your posture, ability to perform daily activities, and overall mobility, addressed with targeted physiotherapy.

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Commonly known as 'wear-and-tear' arthritis, this condition affects various joints, often worsening with age, overuse, or previous injury, and can significantly impact daily function.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Conditions like 'jumper's knee' (patellar tendinopathy), 'swimmer's shoulder' (rotator cuff tendinopathy), or 'tennis elbow' (lateral epicondylitis) caused by tendon issues that limit your ability to perform specific tasks.

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. Reuben Thomas can assess your needs.

• Postural Assessment and Correction: Helping you understand how your posture impacts your musculoskeletal health and providing you with tools for lasting postural improvement and pain relief.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Targeted manual methods performed by your Physiotherapist to release tight or overactive muscles, address fascial restrictions, and alleviate pain arising from soft tissue dysfunction.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Application of precise, passive movements to joints to decrease stiffness, relieve pain, and facilitate easier, more comfortable movement.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Teaching you essential strategies and exercises to manage your symptoms independently, accelerate recovery, and prevent future problems.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: Detailed physical assessment of your joints, muscles, nerves, and movement patterns to identify the root cause of your symptoms and guide your treatment.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): A form of manual therapy that actively involves you in your treatment, utilizing your body's muscular effort to achieve specific therapeutic effects on restricted joints and shortened soft tissues.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Reuben Thomas, 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 Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Centre, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Reuben Thomas frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Struggling with the frustration of sharp pain shooting down my leg, feeling a lot like sciatica? Reuben Thomas develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving a reduction in nerve-related symptoms like tingling or numbness. This is key to helping you get back to doing managing the physical demands of their job without constant pain with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• Many individuals seek help from Reuben Thomas, their physiotherapist, when frequent headaches that seem to start from tension in my neck or shoulders starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve enhanced pelvic floor function and control (for relevant conditions), empowering them to joyfully return to activities like spending hours gardening comfortably, without subsequent back or knee strain.
• It's truly rewarding for Reuben Thomas to witness patients conquer that 'pins and needles' feeling that won't go away and experience improved coordination for complex movements and fine motor tasks. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in cycling longer distances with their cycling club again.
• Physiotherapy with Reuben Thomas can be a transformative turning point for those affected by recovering from a painful and limiting work-related injury (WCB/CNESST/WorkSafe claim). The shared goal is achieving improved overall mobility, making it easier to navigate their home and community, paving the way for you to enjoy getting back to their regular, consistent gym workouts and a more active, vibrant life.

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

Reuben Thomas practices at Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Centre, situated in the Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Yonge-Dundas Square and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

You can expect your initial physiotherapy visit to be around an hour long. This extended time allows for a comprehensive assessment of your condition and a collaborative discussion about your treatment goals. Subsequent follow-up sessions are generally between 30 and 45 minutes, though this can be adjusted based on your individual requirements. Your Physiotherapist will advise on the appropriate appointment length for your specific care.

Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?

It's helpful to bring your health card, any referral letters from other healthcare providers if you were referred, and any reports or images from relevant medical tests (X-rays, MRIs, etc.) related to your condition. If you have private insurance coverage for physiotherapy, please bring your insurance card or policy details for billing purposes. Comfortable attire that allows for easy movement during the assessment is also recommended.

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.

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.

What are Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Centre's operating hours?

Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Centre is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. However, hours can vary by practitioner and day, so please call the clinic or check their website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

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.

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.

Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Centre
550 University Ave.
Toronto, ON, M5G 2A2

Phone: (416) 597-3422

Reuben Mathew 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: XXX24

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=830a5f67-82c7-e811-817b-480fcff40721

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