Shannon Irene Andersen – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Shannon Irene Andersen is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at The Sports Health Experts in Toronto, ON, Shannon Andersen is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Shannon Andersen 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. Shannon Andersen serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Shannon Irene Andersen completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 1998). With extensive clinical experience, Shannon Andersen is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Shannon Andersen has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Shannon Andersen employs a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Shannon Andersen promotes preventative care and long-term wellness for the Toronto community through proactive physiotherapy. Shannon Andersen offers consultations in English.

Shannon Irene Andersen provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Hand Wrist

• 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.
• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Addressing the inflammation, pain, and restricted movement associated with stenosing tenosynovitis of the finger or thumb.

Back Neck Pain

• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Neck, shoulder, and upper back discomfort, often accompanied by headaches or 'brain fog', after a sudden jerking motion of the head, such as in a rear-end collision.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Muscular pain, trigger points, and tension headaches resulting from habitual poor posture, which can be addressed with postural re-education, exercises, and ergonomic advice.
• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Pain, pins and needles, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg resulting from irritation or compression of a spinal nerve, often managed effectively with physiotherapy techniques like McKenzie method or neural mobilization.
• 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).

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. Shannon Andersen can assess your needs.

• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Hands-on physiotherapy focused on mobilizing restricted joints and soft tissues to promote healing, restore normal biomechanics, and alleviate pain.
• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: The application of gentle, controlled mechanical or manual force to distract (stretch) spinal segments, aiming to alleviate pressure on intervertebral discs, nerves, and facet joints.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Using controlled isometric and isotonic muscle contractions, as directed by your Physiotherapist, to address joint restrictions and muscle imbalances effectively.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Application of skilled soft tissue techniques to manage pain, stiffness, and improve function in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): The application of cold packs, ice massage, or other cold modalities by your Physiotherapist to reduce swelling, inflammation, muscle spasm, and acute pain, particularly after an injury.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Specialized manual techniques aimed at restoring normal movement and function to peripheral nerves that may be compressed, adhered, or under tension.

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

• Many patients have found lasting relief from that 'arthritic' pain in my hands, hips, or knees and achieved being able to climb stairs with ease and confidence once again under the skilled care of Shannon Andersen. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as engaging in detailed crafting, sewing, or knitting hobbies for hours with a new lease on life.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Shannon Andersen can help you move beyond that 'pins and needles' feeling that won't go away. The focus is on noticeable strength gains in their limbs, supporting more demanding tasks, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Shannon Andersen's clinic, common concerns like pain and difficulty with overhead movements like reaching into a cupboard are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of effectively managing chronic pain and reclaiming an active lifestyle. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like giving presentations or speaking publicly with confidence and good posture.
• Many find that facial weakness or drooping on one side (like Bell's Palsy) significantly impacts their ability to standing for longer periods, for example, while cooking or at an event. Shannon Andersen helps patients target a noticeable reduction in daily discomfort, making everyday tasks easier and more enjoyable with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.

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

Shannon Andersen practices at The Sports Health Experts, located in the Leaside neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near St. Lawrence Market and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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.

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. It is strongly advised to check your private insurance for coverage of private clinic physiotherapy services.

Is there parking available at or near The Sports Health Experts?

Paid parking is available in the parkade adjacent to our building. Limited free street parking may also be found in the vicinity, but please check local signage for restrictions.

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.

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.

Does The Sports Health Experts offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

While we do not offer direct billing at this time, we provide detailed official receipts that you can easily submit to your insurer for reimbursement according to your plan. Please bring your insurance card/information and always confirm your specific coverage details with your insurance provider, as plans vary significantly. You are responsible for any portion not covered by your insurance.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

Your initial physiotherapy appointment is a comprehensive assessment. Your Physiotherapist will start by discussing your medical history, the details of your current symptoms or injury, your concerns, and what you hope to achieve with physiotherapy (your functional goals). This is followed by a thorough physical examination, which may include evaluating your range of motion, strength, posture, balance, and specific movement patterns, as well as performing special tests relevant to your condition. Based on these findings, your therapist will provide a clinical impression or diagnosis, discuss a personalized treatment plan with you, and often begin some initial treatment or provide education and a home exercise program to get you started.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

Physiotherapy should not be an ordeal of pain. 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 for an acute injury or chronic stiffness, it's rarely 'painful' in a distressing or harmful way. Your Physiotherapist will guide you through each step, modify treatments to suit your comfort and tolerance, and ensure that the overall experience is positive. The ultimate aim is to make you feel better, not worse.

The Sports Health Experts
45 Wicksteed Avenue, Suite 240
Toronto, ON, M4G 4H9

Phone: (416) 423-9999

Shannon Irene Andersen 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: XXX30

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=7af29d4b-8c02-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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