Shaera Rahim – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Shaera Rahim is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Geriatric Physiotherapy Focus / Seniors' Health). Practicing at Arthritis Society in Toronto, ON, Shaera Rahim is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Shaera Rahim 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. Shaera Rahim serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Shaera Rahim completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Toronto (Graduating Class of 2020). With clinical experience, Shaera Rahim is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Shaera Rahim has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Geriatric Physiotherapy / Seniors' Health.

Shaera Rahim employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting; empowering 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. Shaera Rahim offers consultations in Bengali, English.

Shaera Rahim provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Arthritis

• 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.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Specific exercises (e.g., McKenzie exercises, stretching, postural exercises) and strategies to help individuals with ankylosing spondylitis maintain function, reduce stiffness, and prevent long-term spinal changes.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Physiotherapy to address residual joint stiffness, pain, swelling, and functional loss after an acute gout attack has subsided, or to help manage musculoskeletal impairments and tophi-related issues associated with chronic gout, always in conjunction with appropriate medical management for urate control.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): An inflammatory arthritis that can affect some people with psoriasis (a skin condition), causing joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and sometimes affecting tendons (enthesitis) and ligaments. Can affect small or large joints, often asymmetrically, and sometimes the spine.

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.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Discomfort experienced in the hip region, groin, outer hip, or buttock, potentially stemming from joint inflammation (bursitis), muscle strains, tendinopathy, or conservative management of labral tears.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Discomfort, limited range of motion, and persistent tension in the cervical spine (neck), often related to posture, an injury, stress, or sleeping position.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Acute or chronic pain originating from various musculoskeletal sources, such as a pulled muscle (strain), inflamed tendon, or irritated bursa.

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. Shaera Rahim can assess your needs.

• Home-Based Physiotherapy Visits (Mobile Physio): Bringing expert physiotherapy services to you when clinic visits are challenging, ensuring continuity of care and personalized attention in your familiar surroundings.
• 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.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: An in-depth examination to fully understand your specific condition, allowing your Physiotherapist to create an effective and personalized rehabilitation plan.
• 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.
• Tele-Rehabilitation / Virtual Physiotherapy Consultations: Providing physiotherapy assessment, diagnosis, treatment guidance, education, exercise prescription, and self-management strategies remotely via secure video conferencing technology.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Providing clear guidance on self-care techniques, activity modifications, and beneficial lifestyle adjustments for long-term well-being and injury prevention.

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

• Shaera Rahim frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of difficulty with fine motor skills like buttoning shirts or writing due to hand pain. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets feeling significantly stronger and more capable in their physical abilities and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like keeping up with their team during our weekly soccer match.
• With Shaera Rahim's help, managing loss of strength in one of my limbs after an injury to achieve a better ability to cope with the physical stresses of daily life becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like swimming laps at the pool for fitness and relaxation.
• Rediscover your ability to taking long photography walks to capture nature or cityscapes without the constant burden of soreness and tightness in my Achilles tendon, especially after exercise. Shaera Rahim focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to feeling less fatigued during physical activities and throughout the day, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
• For those whose trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury has made managing shopping trips and carrying bags without excessive fatigue or pain seem like a distant memory, Shaera Rahim's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward reduced muscle tension and a feeling of greater physical ease. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to managing shopping trips and carrying bags without excessive fatigue or pain with greater comfort and renewed confidence.

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

Shaera Rahim's practice at Arthritis Society is located in the Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Polson Pier and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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

In Ontario, you can usually see a physiotherapist directly without a doctor's referral. This is called "direct access." However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for coverage. It's crucial to check with your insurance provider before your appointment to understand their specific requirements.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

The number of physiotherapy sessions required varies greatly from person to person. It depends on several factors, including the nature and severity of your condition, how long you've had the issue (acute vs. chronic), your individual treatment goals, your body's unique response to therapy, and how consistently you are able to follow your prescribed home exercise program and self-management advice. Your Physiotherapist will discuss a proposed treatment frequency and estimated duration after your initial assessment and will continually re-evaluate your progress with you.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

Physiotherapy should not be painful. While you might feel some discomfort or a stretching sensation as you work to regain movement or strength, especially in the initial stages of treatment, your physiotherapist will guide you and modify treatments to suit your comfort level. The goal is to make you feel better, not worse.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Absolutely! Home exercises are a vital part of your rehabilitation and empower you to take an active role in your recovery. Your physiotherapist will carefully select and teach you exercises specific to your needs.

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

OHIP generally does not cover physiotherapy services in private 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 with OHIP and your private insurance provider to determine your coverage.

Does Arthritis Society offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Please contact Arthritis Society directly to inquire about their direct billing policies with private insurance companies. It is advisable to bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment and confirm your coverage with your insurer.

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

Some temporary post-treatment soreness is normal. However, if your pain significantly worsens, you develop new symptoms, or the discomfort doesn't subside within a day or two, contact the clinic immediately.

Arthritis Society
393 University Avenue, Suite 1700
Toronto, ON, M5G 1E6

Phone: (905) 522-5235

Shaera Rahim 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: XXX92

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=d3bb1b24-d04a-eb11-a812-000d3af42c56

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