Robert Manka – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Robert Manka is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at David MacIntosh Sports Medicine Clinic in Toronto, ON, Robert is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Robert's focus is 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. Robert specializes in the assessment, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries. Care is tailored to help athletes of all levels, from recreational to elite, return to their sport safely, optimize performance, and prevent future injuries. Robert serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Robert Manka completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Western University (Graduating Class of 2017). With extensive clinical experience, Robert Manka is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Robert Manka has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and Sports Physiotherapy.

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

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

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: Physiotherapy for concussion recovery, focusing on symptom management, restoring normal function, and preventing long-term complications through evidence-based interventions.

Back Neck Pain

• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Neck, shoulder, and upper back discomfort, often accompanied by headaches or 'brain fog', after a sudden jerking motion of the head, such as in a rear-end collision.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: A common cause of persistent back and neck pain due to the cumulative strain of prolonged sitting, standing, or performing tasks in non-ideal positions.
• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Pain, pins and needles, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg resulting from irritation or compression of a spinal nerve, often managed effectively with physiotherapy techniques like McKenzie method or neural mobilization.

Sports Injury

• Stress Fractures (Activity-Related - Conservative Management/Rehab): A bone injury resulting from an imbalance between bone resorption and bone formation due to repetitive mechanical loading, often seen in runners or athletes who rapidly increase their training.
• IT Band Syndrome (Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome): Pain, typically sharp or burning, located on the outside (lateral aspect) of the knee, or sometimes the hip. Common in runners, cyclists, and other endurance athletes, caused by irritation or inflammation of the iliotibial (IT) band as it rubs over bony prominences.

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. Robert can assess your needs.

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Management & Rehabilitation: Specialized physiotherapy to address persistent concussion symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, balance problems, visual disturbances, and difficulty concentrating or tolerating activity.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Personalized programs incorporating various stretching techniques (e.g., static, dynamic, PNF) to alleviate stiffness, increase tissue extensibility, and promote better posture.
• Therapeutic & Athletic Taping (e.g., Kinesio, McConnell, Rigid): Taping strategies implemented by your Physiotherapist to aid in injury management, provide stability during activity, offload sensitive tissues, and promote optimal biomechanics.
• Orthopedic Bracing & Support Consultation/Fitting: Providing customized or appropriately sized bracing solutions to protect injured areas, limit harmful movements, reduce pain, and support your return to function or sport.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Developing control, strength, and endurance in your core musculature for improved functional performance, pain reduction, and prevention of re-injury.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Progressive resistance training programs designed by your Physiotherapist to improve muscle performance, support joint health, and enhance functional capacity for daily life or sport.

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

• At Robert's physiotherapy practice, individuals with feeling 'off-balance' and worried about falling, especially as I get older are guided towards a safe and confident return to their favorite sport or recreational activity. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as playing their musical instrument (guitar, piano, violin, etc.) for extended periods.
• Patients struggling with trouble performing repetitive tasks at work without pain can find dedicated and compassionate support from Robert. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving restored joint function, leading to smoother and more coordinated movements, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as painting or drawing for longer stretches without neck or shoulder ache.
• If tendonitis pain flaring up in my shoulder, knee, elbow, or foot is preventing you from fully enjoying participating in community events and social gatherings more actively, Robert offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining a significantly reduced risk of falling, enhancing safety and independence, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• Robert frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of recovering my strength and energy after being very sick (like with pneumonia or Long COVID). A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets improved core stability and control, leading to better posture and reduced strain and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like hitting the slopes for a full day of skiing or snowboarding in winter.

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

Robert practices at David MacIntosh Sports Medicine Clinic, situated in the University of Toronto, Harbord neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Little Italy and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). 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 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. Always check your private/extended health insurance plan, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

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?

Absolutely! Home exercises are a vital part of your rehabilitation journey and empower you to take an active role in your recovery process. Your Physiotherapist will carefully select and teach you exercises specific to your needs. These exercises help to reinforce what's done in the clinic, manage your condition effectively, and ensure you continue progressing towards your goals even when you're not in a session.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at David MacIntosh Sports Medicine Clinic treat?

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

What are David MacIntosh Sports Medicine Clinic's operating hours?

Our clinic is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. However, hours can vary, so please call the clinic or check our website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows the Physiotherapist to easily access and assess the area being treated, and permits you to move freely for any exercises or movements. Athletic wear or gym attire is generally a good choice. You may also be provided with a gown if needed.

David MacIntosh Sports Medicine Clinic
55 Harbord St.
Toronto, ON, M5S 2W6

Phone: (416) 978-4678

Robert Manka 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: XXX55

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=3748e90b-9402-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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