Sarah Dawn Kolbuc – Physiotherapist | Niagara Falls, ON

Sarah Kolbuc is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Greater Niagara General Hospital in Niagara Falls, ON, Sarah Kolbuc is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Sarah Kolbuc addresses 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. Sarah Kolbuc serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Sarah Kolbuc completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 2013). With clinical experience, Sarah Kolbuc is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Sarah Kolbuc has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Sarah Kolbuc empowers 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. Sarah Kolbuc offers consultations in English.

Sarah Dawn Kolbuc provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Post Surgical

• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): Supportive physiotherapy to aid your recovery and help you manage symptoms after back or neck surgery, focusing on education, safe movement strategies, and specific exercises.
• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): Comprehensive shoulder rehabilitation after surgical intervention, following surgeon-specific protocols, to ensure optimal healing, manage pain and swelling, and restore your arm's functional capacity.

Joint Pain

• 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.
• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Joint pain, aching, and functional limitation due to the progressive loss of cartilage, which physiotherapy can help manage through exercise, education, and pain relief strategies.

Arthritis

• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Supportive physiotherapy for individuals with psoriatic arthritis, focusing on managing joint pain and swelling, maintaining range of motion and strength, improving function, and providing advice on activity modification and joint protection.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Tailored exercise programs (including range of motion, strengthening, and low-impact aerobic exercises), pain relief modalities, and education on joint protection techniques and energy conservation for individuals with RA or similar conditions.

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. Sarah Kolbuc can assess your needs.

• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): The therapeutic use of different electrical currents by your Physiotherapist to achieve specific physiological effects, such as improving muscle contraction, reducing atrophy, or enhancing functional movement.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Utilizing targeted electrical currents to help alleviate pain, manage discomfort, and support healing in conjunction with other physiotherapy interventions.
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): Targeted shockwave application to promote tissue regeneration, modulate pain, and improve function in chronic injuries, often with lasting results.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: A progressive program designed to build a strong and stable core, improving your body's foundation for all movements and reducing strain on other structures.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Evidence-based exercise programs designed by your physiotherapist, including instruction and progression, to optimize your recovery and enhance your physical well-being.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Cold therapy techniques applied by your therapist to effectively alleviate acute pain, reduce inflammation, and manage muscle soreness or spasm.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Sarah Kolbuc, 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 Greater Niagara General Hospital, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Sarah Kolbuc frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Don't let recovering from a painful and limiting work-related injury (WCB/CNESST/WorkSafe claim) dictate what you can and cannot do. Sarah Kolbuc offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at improved overall mobility, making it easier to navigate their home and community, helping you reclaim simply enjoying leisurely daily walks around their neighborhood for fresh air and enjoy a more functional life.
• If an awkward gait or limping when I walk is preventing you from fully enjoying getting on and off the floor with ease, Sarah Kolbuc offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining better joint stability during movement and weight-bearing activities, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Sarah Kolbuc can help you move beyond managing stiffness, tremors, and movement challenges with Parkinson's disease. The focus is on getting back their independence with daily activities and personal care, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema or a play.
• Physiotherapy with Sarah Kolbuc can be a transformative turning point for those affected by feeling generally stiff, achy, and less mobile than I used to be. The shared goal is achieving enjoying less stiffness in the mornings and throughout the day, paving the way for you to enjoy cycling longer distances with their cycling club and a more active, vibrant life.

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

Sarah Kolbuc practices at Greater Niagara General Hospital, situated in the Downtown Niagara Falls (Queen St area) neighborhood of Niagara Falls. The clinic is conveniently located near various hotels and is accessible via Niagara Region Transit (NRT). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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 are Greater Niagara General Hospital's operating hours?

Our clinic is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and some practitioners offer Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. However, hours can vary by practitioner and day, so please call our office or check our website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

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 plans, 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.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your first visit, the Physiotherapist will conduct a detailed evaluation to get a full picture of your condition. This usually involves a thorough discussion about your symptoms, how they impact your daily life, any relevant medical history, and your personal goals for therapy. A physical assessment will then be performed to help pinpoint the cause of your problem and assess your physical capabilities. Afterwards, your therapist will explain their findings, collaborate with you to set treatment goals, and outline a proposed plan of care. You'll likely receive some initial advice, exercises, or hands-on treatment to begin your recovery journey.

Greater Niagara General Hospital
5546 Portage Rd.
Niagara Falls, ON, L2G 1J1

Phone: (905) 358-4918

Sarah Dawn Kolbuc 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: XXX67

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=d50706bc-9102-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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