Samantha Poulin – Physiotherapist | Waterloo, ON

Samantha Poulin is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Sports Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at Depth Training & Physiotherapy in Waterloo, ON, Samantha Poulin is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Samantha Poulin 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. Samantha Poulin serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

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

Samantha Poulin employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting; empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results; a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Samantha Poulin offers consultations in English, French.

Samantha Poulin 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: A brain injury caused by a direct or indirect blow to the head, resulting in a range of symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, visual disturbances, cognitive difficulties (e.g., 'brain fog', memory issues), fatigue, and emotional changes. Post-Concussion Syndrome refers to symptoms persisting beyond the typical recovery window.

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage and underlying bone, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility in affected joints like the knees, hips, spine, or hands.
• 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. Samantha Poulin can assess your needs.

• Orthopedic Bracing & Support Consultation/Fitting: Assessment by your Physiotherapist for and fitting of orthopedic braces or supports (custom or off-the-shelf) to stabilize joints, manage injuries (e.g., ligament tears, osteoarthritis, instability), protect healing tissues, and facilitate safe activity participation.
• Therapeutic & Athletic Taping (e.g., Kinesio, McConnell, Rigid): Utilizing different taping methods, chosen by your therapist based on your specific needs, to assist with pain relief, support injured areas, reduce swelling, or improve proprioceptive feedback.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Detailed analysis of your static and dynamic posture, with tailored exercises, stretches, and advice to help you improve alignment and reduce strain on your body.
• 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: An in-depth examination to fully understand your specific condition, allowing your Physiotherapist to create an effective and personalized rehabilitation plan.
• Custom Foot Orthotic Assessment & Prescription (if offered/certified): Assessment for and provision of custom orthotics to help manage lower limb conditions such as plantar fasciitis, flat feet, Achilles tendinopathy, or leg length discrepancies.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Samantha Poulin, 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 Depth Training & Physiotherapy, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Samantha Poulin frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of tendonitis pain flaring up in my shoulder, knee, elbow, or foot? Samantha Poulin works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of feeling a substantial improvement in their mobility and range of motion for easier movement. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as being able to carry their baby or toddler without straining their back or arms.
• Samantha Poulin believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If frequent headaches that seem to start from tension in my neck or shoulders is hindering your ability to sleeping soundly through the night without being woken by pain or discomfort, a personalized plan focusing on a noticeable reduction in daily discomfort, making everyday tasks easier and more enjoyable can make all the difference.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Samantha Poulin can help you move beyond that 'pins and needles' feeling that won't go away. The focus is on reduced muscle tension and a feeling of greater physical ease, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as attending concerts or theatre shows and sitting comfortably throughout.
• It's truly rewarding for Samantha Poulin to witness patients conquer a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns) and experience successfully avoiding or delaying the need for more invasive treatments or surgery. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in going on birdwatching outings in various terrains again.

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

Samantha Poulin's practice at Depth Training & Physiotherapy is located in the University District (University of Waterloo, Wilfrid Laurier University) neighborhood of Waterloo. The clinic is conveniently located near Waterloo Public Square and is accessible via Grand River Transit (GRT) (Bus and ION Light Rail). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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.

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 essential to check your insurance policy 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 specific situations (e.g., post-hospitalization, for children/youth, seniors, or through Community Physiotherapy Clinics/Family Health Teams), but eligibility is strict. Check your private insurance coverage for private clinic physiotherapy.

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.

Does Depth Training & Physiotherapy 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 according to your plan. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. Always confirm your specific coverage details with your insurance provider.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

This is very individual and depends on many factors. After your comprehensive initial assessment, your Physiotherapist will be able to give you a better idea of the anticipated number of sessions and the frequency of visits needed to achieve your specific goals. We believe in open communication and will regularly review your progress with you, adjusting the treatment plan as you improve and as needed.

What is Depth Training & Physiotherapy's appointment cancellation policy?

We understand that schedules can change unexpectedly. To ensure we can accommodate all our patients efficiently, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. A fee may be charged for late cancellations or missed appointments without sufficient notice. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your appointment.

Depth Training & Physiotherapy
408 Albert St
Waterloo, ON, N2L 3V3

Phone: (226) 748-9494

Samantha Poulin 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: XXX83

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=3d49735d-18f9-ea11-a815-000d3af42c56

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