Sandra W. Yue – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Sandra W. Yue is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at UHN Toronto Rehab (University Centre) in Toronto, ON, Sandra is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Sandra assists 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. Sandra serves a diverse range of patients, tailoring her approach to meet each individual's unique needs and goals.

Sandra W. Yue completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Queen's University (Graduating Class of 1996). With extensive clinical experience, Sandra is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Sandra has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Neurological Physiotherapy, ensuring she remains at the forefront of advancements in this specialized field.

Sandra employs a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Sandra promotes preventative care and long-term wellness for the Toronto community through proactive physiotherapy. Sandra has a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best possible care. Sandra offers consultations in English.

Sandra W. Yue provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Vestibular Balance

• Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD / 3PD): A common cause of chronic dizziness that can be helped with specific physiotherapy strategies aimed at desensitizing the brain to provocative stimuli and normalizing reliance on sensory inputs.
• General Balance Deficits and Increased Fall Risk: Physiotherapy aimed at improving your balance, coordination, lower limb strength, reaction time, and confidence to reduce your risk of falling and enhance safe mobility in your home and community.

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.

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): Inflammation (tendinitis) or, more commonly, degeneration (tendinosis/tendinopathy) of tendons, leading to localized pain that typically worsens with activity or loading of the tendon.

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. Sandra can assess your needs.

• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Specialized manual techniques aimed at restoring normal movement and function to peripheral nerves that may be compressed, adhered, or under tension.
• 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.
• 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.
• Balance Training & Falls Prevention Programs: Targeted exercises and strategies designed by your Physiotherapist to improve your stability, coordination, lower limb strength, and body awareness (proprioception), thereby reducing your risk of falls, particularly beneficial for older adults or individuals with balance impairments.
• 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.
• Neurological Rehabilitation (e.g., Stroke, MS, Parkinson's, Acquired Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury): Evidence-based neurological rehabilitation focused on harnessing neuroplasticity, motor learning principles, and task-specific training to help regain lost skills and adapt to new ways of moving.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Sandra, 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. Sandra frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• The path to recovery from difficulty getting out of a chair or bed due to stiffness or pain and achieving getting back to hiking, running, or cycling pain-free and with renewed vigor for managing the physical demands of their job without constant pain often starts with expert guidance. Sandra, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.
• With Sandra's help, managing awful foot pain first thing in the morning, like I'm walking on glass (plantar fasciitis) to achieve being able to climb stairs with ease and confidence once again becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like shoveling snow or raking leaves without aggravating their back.
• Don't let sharp pain shooting down my leg, feeling a lot like sciatica dictate what you can and cannot do. Sandra offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at a noticeable reduction in daily discomfort, making everyday tasks easier and more enjoyable, helping you reclaim performing self-care tasks like hair washing or reaching their back and enjoy a more functional life.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from persistent dizziness that isn't a spinning vertigo but makes me feel unsteady and achieved greater confidence when walking, standing, or navigating challenging environments under the skilled care of Sandra. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as engaging in volunteer work that might have physical demands with a new lease on life.

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

Sandra practices at UHN Toronto Rehab (University Centre), situated in the Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Meridian Hall and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

While some physiotherapy techniques might feel uncomfortable or cause a temporary increase in soreness (similar to muscle soreness after a new workout), especially when working on stiff joints or tight muscles, it should not be excessively or intolerably painful. Your Physiotherapist will discuss what sensations you might expect with different treatments and will always aim to adjust the intensity and techniques to ensure you are as comfortable as possible while still achieving therapeutic benefits. Constant communication about your comfort level is very important.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy, delivered by a qualified Physiotherapist, is a science-based profession that focuses on restoring movement and function when someone is affected by injury, illness, or disability. It can also help to reduce your risk of future problems. Your physiotherapist will use techniques such as therapeutic exercise, manual therapy (hands-on treatment), education, and advice, empowering you to manage your health independently and achieve your physical goals.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, in almost all cases, you will receive a customized home exercise program. These exercises are carefully chosen by your Physiotherapist to specifically target your issues and help you achieve your functional goals faster and more effectively. Performing them as recommended is very important for your progress and for maintaining the improvements you make during your clinic visits.

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 coverage of services in private clinics.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your first physiotherapy appointment, which includes a detailed assessment and the development of your initial treatment plan, usually takes about 60 minutes. Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled for 30 to 45 minutes. The exact duration of each session will depend on the nature of your treatment and what your Physiotherapist has planned for that specific visit to best help you progress.

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.

Does UHN Toronto Rehab (University Centre) offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Please contact the clinic directly to inquire about their direct billing policies with private insurance companies. It is recommended that you bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment and confirm your specific coverage with your insurance provider prior to your visit.

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

Phone: (416) 597-3422

Sandra W. Yue 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: XXX98

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=09e99edc-8b02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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