Robyn Synnott – Physiotherapist | Hamilton, ON

Robyn Synnott is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Hamilton Family Health Team in Hamilton, ON, Robyn is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Robyn'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. Robyn also provides specialized assessment and treatment for conditions related to the pelvic floor and surrounding region for all genders. This includes issues such as incontinence, pelvic pain, pelvic organ prolapse, sexual dysfunction, and pre/post-natal concerns. Robyn serves adults.

Robyn Synnott completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 2009). With extensive clinical experience, Robyn Synnott is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Robyn Synnott has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Pelvic Health Physiotherapy and Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Robyn employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Robyn has a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care possible. Robyn Synnott offers consultations in English.

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

Pregnancy Postpartum

• Pregnancy-Related Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP) / Low Back Pain / Sciatica: Musculoskeletal pain commonly experienced during pregnancy affecting the sacroiliac (SI) joints, pubic symphysis (SPD), low back, hips, or causing sciatica-like radiating leg pain due to hormonal changes, increased load, and altered biomechanics.
• Postpartum Pelvic Floor Dysfunction (e.g., Incontinence, Pain, Prolapse): Pelvic floor issues arising after childbirth (vaginal or C-section), such as urinary or fecal incontinence, perineal pain, painful intercourse (dyspareunia), symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse, or tailbone pain.
• C-Section Scar Management and Abdominal Recovery: Addressing adhesions, discomfort, and functional limitations related to C-section scars, promoting better movement and core engagement.

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Conservative physiotherapy management for trigger digit, which may include splinting to rest the tendon, specific tendon gliding exercises, activity modification advice, modalities to reduce inflammation, and education to prevent recurrence.
• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Focused physiotherapy care for complex hand and wrist problems, often involving custom splinting or orthosis fabrication, manual therapy (joint and soft tissue mobilization), specific exercises to restore dexterity, strength, and range of motion, scar management, and sensory re-education.

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. Robyn can assess your needs.

• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: An in-depth examination to fully understand your specific condition, allowing your Physiotherapist to create an effective and personalized rehabilitation plan.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Education on optimal body mechanics and corrective strategies to improve your posture during daily activities, work, and recreation.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Providing clear guidance on self-care techniques, activity modifications, and beneficial lifestyle adjustments for long-term well-being and injury prevention.
• Chronic & Persistent Pain Management Programs: Multifaceted and individualized physiotherapy approaches including pain science education (understanding your pain), graded exercise therapy, pacing strategies, coping mechanisms, manual therapy (where appropriate), and relaxation techniques to help you manage persistent pain and improve your quality of life.
• Fibromyalgia & Widespread Pain Management: Tailored physiotherapy including gentle exercise prescription (e.g., aquatic therapy, graded aerobic exercise), pain management education, activity pacing strategies, stress reduction techniques, and gentle manual therapies for individuals living with fibromyalgia or other widespread pain conditions.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Evaluation of your body's basic movements (like squatting, lunging, reaching) to highlight areas for improvement in stability, mobility, and motor control.

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

• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury? Robyn works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of less reliance on pain medication, trusting more in their body's ability to heal and function. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema or a play.
• Tired of that burning pain between my shoulder blades from too much computer work interfering with comfortably cooking and meal prepping for their family? Robyn uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve enjoying cycling or swimming regularly without pain or limitation and regain your freedom of movement.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Robyn can help you move beyond numbness, tingling, or weakness in my hands, arms, feet, or legs. The focus is on effectively managing chronic pain and reclaiming an active lifestyle, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as participating in water aerobics or other pool-based exercises.
• Robyn believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If managing stiffness, tremors, and movement challenges with Parkinson's disease is hindering your ability to keeping up with their team during our weekly soccer match, a personalized plan focusing on improved coordination for complex movements and fine motor tasks can make all the difference.

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

Robyn practices at Hamilton Family Health Team, situated in the Central Hamilton, Strathcona neighborhood of Hamilton. The clinic is conveniently located near Westmount Recreation Centre and is accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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

In Ontario, you typically do not need a doctor's referral to see a physiotherapist. This is known as direct access. However, while a referral isn't legally required to book an appointment, some private health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement. It is strongly recommended that you check with your insurance provider before your first appointment to confirm their specific requirements.

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 provided in private clinics. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available through specific programs (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 waitlists may exist. It's essential to check your private insurance coverage, as many plans offer significant coverage for physiotherapy services in private clinics.

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

For your first visit, please bring your provincial health card (e.g., Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) card, if applicable for any publicly funded programs or simply for identification), any relevant medical information such as a doctor's referral note (if you have one), reports from recent imaging (like X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound scans), and a list of your current medications. Also, if you plan to use private health insurance, bring your insurance card or policy details. Finally, wear or bring comfortable clothing suitable for assessment and movement.

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. We recommend you contact your insurance provider directly before your first appointment to understand the specifics of your plan. Key things to check are: your annual maximum for physiotherapy, any per-visit limits or co-payments, whether a doctor's referral is required for reimbursement, and if your plan allows for direct billing by the clinic. If Hamilton Family Health Team offers direct billing and your plan allows it, we can often bill your insurer directly for the covered portion. You would then be responsible for any co-payment or remaining balance not covered by your plan at the time of service. Please bring your insurance card and all necessary policy details to your first appointment. If direct billing is not possible, we will provide you with an official receipt that you can submit to your insurer.

Hamilton Family Health Team
300-123 james St. north
Hamilton, ON, L8R 2K8

Phone: (905) 667-4848

Robyn Synnott 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=61782713-9002-e811-813f-480fcff40721

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