Sarah Malathi Arulchelvam – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Sarah Arulchelvam is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Resident Physiotherapist) (Geriatric Physiotherapy Focus / Seniors' Health). Practicing at Michael Garron Hospital in Toronto, ON, Sarah Arulchelvam is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Sarah Arulchelvam focuses on the unique health needs of older adults, aiming to improve and maintain mobility, strength, balance, manage age-related conditions like arthritis or osteoporosis, reduce fall risk, and enhance overall quality of life and independence. Sarah Arulchelvam serves seniors within the community.

Sarah Arulchelvam completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 2024). With clinical experience, Sarah Arulchelvam is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Sarah Arulchelvam has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Geriatric Physiotherapy / Seniors' Health.

Sarah Arulchelvam demonstrates a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Toronto community through proactive physiotherapy. Sarah Arulchelvam offers consultations in English.

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

Neurological

• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) / Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Rehabilitation: Focusing on restoring movement, balance, and independence after a traumatic or acquired brain injury through evidence-based physiotherapy approaches.
• Functional Neurological Disorders (FND) - Movement Retraining: Physiotherapy as a key component of a multidisciplinary approach for Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder (FND), focusing on movement retraining, normalizing movement patterns that may be abnormal (e.g., tremor, weakness, gait disturbance, dystonia), and improving functional abilities.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Common shoulder problems such as rotator cuff issues (tendinopathy, small tears), impingement syndrome, or adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) significantly affecting arm function and daily comfort.
• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Knee problems that limit your ability to stay active, perform daily tasks, or enjoy your hobbies, for which physiotherapy offers effective solutions.

Arthritis

• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): A type of chronic inflammatory arthritis primarily affecting the spine (especially the sacroiliac joints and vertebrae), leading to pain, stiffness, and potential fusion of vertebrae, which can result in a stooped posture if not managed.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Helping to manage the musculoskeletal aspects of psoriatic disease, working in conjunction with medical management to optimize your physical function and comfort.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Helping you live well with rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory arthropathies through targeted physiotherapy interventions designed to manage symptoms, preserve function, and promote overall well-being.

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 Arulchelvam can assess your needs.

• Home-Based Physiotherapy Visits (Mobile Physio): Convenient and effective physiotherapy care delivered in your home by a qualified Physiotherapist, focusing on your specific goals and challenges.
• Tele-Rehabilitation / Virtual Physiotherapy Consultations: Receiving personalized physiotherapy care online through secure and interactive video sessions with your qualified Physiotherapist, including real-time exercise correction and tailored advice.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Developing muscular strength and endurance to aid in injury recovery, support affected joints, improve biomechanics, and enhance athletic performance or demanding physical tasks.
• 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.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Specific stretches designed by your therapist to target tight muscle groups relevant to your condition, helping to improve your flexibility and reduce your risk of injury.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Specialized workouts to enhance your core strength, stability, and endurance, which are crucial for injury prevention, back health, and efficient performance in daily activities and sports.

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

• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of needing to improve my breathing patterns or lung capacity? Sarah Arulchelvam works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of getting their strength back after surgery or a period of inactivity. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as simply enjoying leisurely daily walks around their neighborhood for fresh air.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Sarah Arulchelvam can help you move beyond frequent headaches that seem to start from tension in my neck or shoulders. The focus is on feeling significantly stronger and more capable in their physical abilities, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as maintaining their balance and stability while walking on uneven ground or trails.
• Tired of that grinding or crunching feeling in my knee or shoulder interfering with working on detailed woodworking projects in their shop without hand pain? Sarah Arulchelvam uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve learning specific exercises that provide ongoing relief and maintain their progress and regain your freedom of movement.
• If recovering from surgery to my hand or wrist is preventing you from fully enjoying simply being able to get through a workday without constant pain interruptions, Sarah Arulchelvam offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining a deeper understanding of their condition and how to manage it proactively for long-term well-being, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.

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

Sarah Arulchelvam practices at Michael Garron Hospital, situated in the Woodbine Heights neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Princess of Wales Theatre and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

Does Michael Garron Hospital offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

While Michael Garron Hospital does not offer direct billing, we provide detailed official receipts that you can easily submit to your insurer for reimbursement. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. Always confirm your specific coverage details, including any annual maximums, per-visit limits, or deductible requirements, directly with your insurance provider, as plans vary significantly. You are responsible for any portion not covered by your insurance.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes, absolutely! Physiotherapy plays a significant role in injury prevention and managing recurring pain. Your Physiotherapist can identify underlying risk factors such as muscle imbalances, poor movement patterns, postural issues, or biomechanical inefficiencies. By addressing these through targeted exercises, education on proper body mechanics, ergonomic advice, and activity modification, physiotherapy can help reduce your risk of initial injury, prevent re-injury, and manage chronic conditions more effectively, keeping you active and healthy.

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.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at Michael Garron Hospital treat?

Our Physiotherapists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes, but is not limited to, issues like back and neck pain, joint problems (such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery), sports injuries, and nerve pain. We also have therapists with specialized skills in areas like Geriatric Physiotherapy / Seniors' Health and general physiotherapy. Our treatments often involve Home-Based Physiotherapy Visits (Mobile Physio), Tele-Rehabilitation / Virtual Physiotherapy Consultations, and patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.

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

It's recommended to wear or bring clothing that allows unrestricted movement and provides easy access for your physiotherapist to examine the body part being assessed or treated. For instance, if you have a knee problem, please wear or bring shorts. For shoulder issues, a sleeveless top or a top with loose armholes is often helpful. The goal is to make the assessment and treatment as effective as possible.

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. Check your private insurance for private clinic coverage.

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. However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement. Check your insurance policy before your appointment.

Michael Garron Hospital
825 Coxwell Ave.
Toronto, ON, M4C 3E7

Phone: (416) 461-8272

Sarah Malathi Arulchelvam 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: XXX34

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=ef64d8e6-e96b-ef11-a670-6045bd5d248c

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