Scott Austin Richards – Physiotherapist | Ottawa, ON

Scott Austin Richards is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Holistic Wellness Physiotherapy in Ottawa, ON, Scott Richards is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Scott Richards's focus is 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. Scott Richards serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Scott Austin Richards completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of British Columbia (Graduating Class of 2015). With extensive clinical experience, Scott Richards is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Scott Richards has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Scott Richards employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Scott Richards maintains a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Scott Richards offers consultations in English.

Scott Austin Richards provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Conservative physiotherapy management for trigger digit, which may include splinting to rest the tendon, specific tendon gliding exercises, activity modification advice, modalities to reduce inflammation, and education to prevent recurrence.
• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Specialized physiotherapy for conditions affecting the intricate structures of the hand and wrist, such as fractures (e.g., Colles', scaphoid), tendon lacerations or ruptures (e.g., flexor/extensor tendon repairs), ligament sprains/tears (e.g., skier's thumb, TFCC injuries), repetitive strain injuries, or arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis). Includes both conservative management and post-operative rehabilitation.

Back Neck Pain

• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Often age-related changes leading to pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots, causing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs with walking (neurogenic claudication in lumbar stenosis) or in the arms/hands (cervical stenosis).
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Discomfort, aching, stiffness, or muscle fatigue in the back or neck arising from sustained or awkward postures during daily activities, prolonged work (e.g., desk work, computer use), or sleep.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Injuries to ankle ligaments, typically from twisting or 'rolling' motions, leading to pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Can result in recurrent sprains and chronic instability if not properly rehabilitated.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: Injury to muscle tissue that limits your strength, range of motion, and ability to perform specific movements or activities, requiring careful rehabilitation.
• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Aching, burning, sharp pain, or a 'pins and needles' sensation in the wrist, thumb, or hand region, sometimes waking you at night.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Aching, soreness, or sharp pain experienced in the neck, which may include muscle spasms, trigger points, or reduced flexibility.

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. Scott Richards can assess your needs.

• 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.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Progressive resistance training programs designed by your Physiotherapist to improve muscle performance, support joint health, and enhance functional capacity for daily life or sport.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Assessing your fundamental movement patterns to identify limitations, asymmetries, and potential risk factors for injury or re-injury.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Personalized programs incorporating various stretching techniques (e.g., static, dynamic, PNF) to alleviate stiffness, increase tissue extensibility, and promote better posture.
• 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.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Structured physical activities and exercises aimed at helping you safely regain strength, stamina, and confidence in your body's abilities, tailored to your current level.

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

• Physiotherapy with Scott Richards can be a transformative turning point for those affected by clicking, popping, or pain in my jaw (TMJ issues) when I eat or talk. The shared goal is achieving waking up feeling more refreshed with considerably less pain and stiffness, paving the way for you to enjoy participating fully in their martial arts practice, including sparring and a more active, vibrant life.
• When feeling like my posture is hunched or rounded, causing discomfort is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing simply enjoying leisurely daily walks around their neighborhood for fresh air, physiotherapy with Scott Richards can help you work towards a return to intimacy without the fear of pain or discomfort. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• For those whose widespread muscle pain and fatigue that my doctor thinks might be fibromyalgia has made engaging in detailed crafting, sewing, or knitting hobbies for hours seem like a distant memory, Scott Richards's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward a significantly reduced risk of falling, enhancing safety and independence. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to engaging in detailed crafting, sewing, or knitting hobbies for hours with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• Scott Richards frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of pain and difficulty with overhead movements like reaching into a cupboard. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets improved performance in work-related physical demands and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like feeling energetic enough to engage in social activities in the evenings.

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

Scott Richards practices at Holistic Wellness Physiotherapy, situated in the Barrhaven (Longfields, Chapman Mills, Half Moon Bay) neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near Rideau Hall and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Physiotherapist in ON?

In Ontario, you typically do not need a doctor's referral to see a physiotherapist. This is known as direct access. However, while a referral isn't legally required to book an appointment, some extended health insurance plans may require a physician's referral for coverage of physiotherapy services. It's crucial to check with your insurance provider before your first appointment to understand their specific requirements for reimbursement.

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.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Initial assessment appointments are generally longer to allow for a thorough evaluation and discussion, typically lasting between 45 to 60 minutes. Subsequent follow-up treatment sessions are usually shorter, often ranging from 30 to 45 minutes. However, the duration can vary depending on your specific needs, the complexity of your condition, the type of treatment being provided, and the treatment plan designed by your Physiotherapist.

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

It's not uncommon to experience some temporary soreness or a mild increase in symptoms after certain physiotherapy treatments, especially in the initial stages or if you're starting new exercises. This usually subsides within 24-48 hours. However, if you experience a significant or sharp increase in pain, new or worsening neurological symptoms (like numbness, tingling, or weakness), or if your soreness lasts longer than expected, it's important to contact Holistic Wellness Physiotherapy or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at Holistic Wellness Physiotherapy treat?

Our Physiotherapists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including but not limited to 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 Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy. Our treatments often involve manual therapy, exercise prescription, and patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.

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.

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

The Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) generally does NOT cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available through specific programs (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. Most Ontarians will need to rely on private or extended health insurance coverage for physiotherapy services in private clinics. It is strongly recommended that you check your private insurance policy for details on coverage.

Holistic Wellness Physiotherapy
8-34 Highbury Park Drive
Ottawa, ON, K2J 6K8

Phone: (613) 720-1788

Scott Austin Richards 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=21ff16ed-9202-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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