Sarah May Siderius – Physiotherapist | Ottawa, ON

Sarah May Siderius is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at The Ottawa Hospital - Rehabilitation Centre in Ottawa, ON, Sarah is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Sarah focuses on 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. Sarah serves adults.

Sarah May Siderius completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Queen's University (Graduating Class of 2004). With extensive clinical experience, Sarah is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Sarah has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Sarah's practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Ottawa community through proactive physiotherapy. Sarah employs a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Sarah has a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Sarah offers consultations in English, French.

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

Common Musculoskeletal

• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Aching, sharp pain, a feeling of the knee 'giving way', or difficulty fully bending or straightening your knee.
• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Hip problems that interfere with your mobility, sleep, and daily comfort, which can be effectively managed with physiotherapy interventions.

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.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Exercises and advice to manage the impact of gout on your joints, improve mobility, and reduce the likelihood of long-term joint damage.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Individualized exercise programs and pain management strategies tailored for psoriatic arthritis to help reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Physiotherapy as an important part of a multidisciplinary team approach to managing rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory joint conditions (e.g., ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis), helping to minimize disease impact and maximize quality of life.

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 can assess your needs.

• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: Utilizing traction techniques to create space within the spine, reduce nerve irritation, improve disc hydration, and alleviate back or neck pain.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: A comforting physiotherapy modality that helps to soothe tight muscles, decrease pain perception, and improve the flexibility of soft tissues.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: The application of specific wavelengths of light energy (cold laser) by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and accelerate tissue repair and regeneration at a cellular level.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Employing different types of electrotherapy to support your rehabilitation goals, including promoting tissue healing or improving motor control.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Using therapeutic ultrasound as an adjunct treatment to help reduce pain, decrease inflammation, break down scar tissue, and accelerate the repair of injured soft tissues.
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): The application of focused acoustic waves (Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy) by a trained Physiotherapist to treat chronic tendon issues (e.g., plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, Achilles tendinopathy), calcific tendinosis, and other persistent musculoskeletal conditions.

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

• Through personalized physiotherapy at Sarah's clinic, common concerns like difficulty getting out of a chair or bed due to stiffness or pain are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of understanding how to prevent future flare-ups and manage their condition long-term. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like going on birdwatching outings in various terrains.
• Many find that feeling like my joints are just 'wearing out' and getting harder to move significantly impacts their ability to working on detailed woodworking projects in their shop without hand pain. Sarah helps patients target achieving personal fitness goals that once seemed out of reach with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from that persistent ache in my lower back that just won't quit and achieved the ability to manage symptoms independently if they occasionally recur under the skilled care of Sarah. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as challenging myself with indoor or outdoor rock climbing with a new lease on life.
• When trouble performing repetitive tasks at work without pain is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing carrying a backpack or shoulder bag comfortably, physiotherapy with Sarah can help you work towards a greater sense of body confidence and trust in their physical abilities. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.

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

Sarah practices at The Ottawa Hospital - Rehabilitation Centre, situated in the Elmvale Acres, Hawthorne Meadows, Billings Bridge neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near National Defence HQ (Pearkes Building) and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

In physiotherapy, manual therapy encompasses a range of 'hands-on' interventions. Your Physiotherapist may use these techniques to help reduce your pain, increase joint movement, relax tight muscles, or improve the mobility of your nerves. Common approaches include joint glides, sustained pressures, specific soft tissue massage, and, when indicated, joint manipulations. It's a key part of helping your body move better.

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.

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

Some temporary post-treatment soreness can be normal, much like after a good workout. However, if your pain significantly worsens, if you develop new concerning symptoms, or if the discomfort doesn't settle down within a day or two, please call us. Your Physiotherapist would want to know so they can offer guidance and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan. Open communication is key to your successful recovery.

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/extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement of physiotherapy services. It is strongly recommended that you check with your insurance provider before your first appointment to understand their specific requirements.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

Physiotherapy should not be painful. While you might experience some discomfort or a stretching sensation, especially initially, it shouldn't be distressing. Your Physiotherapist will adjust treatments to ensure your comfort.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

The number of sessions needed varies greatly depending on individual factors. Your Physiotherapist will provide a better estimate after your initial assessment and will adjust the plan as you progress.

Is physiotherapy covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

OHIP generally does NOT cover physiotherapy services in private outpatient clinics. 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. Check your private insurance coverage as many plans offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

What are The Ottawa Hospital - Rehabilitation Centre's operating hours?

The Ottawa Hospital - Rehabilitation Centre is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Some practitioners may offer Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. However, hours can vary, so please call the clinic or check their website for the most up-to-date information.

The Ottawa Hospital - Rehabilitation Centre
505 Smyth Rd.
Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M6

Phone: (613) 737-7350

Sarah May Siderius 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: XXX97

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=1969d5f1-8d02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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