Shannon Slacer – Physiotherapist | Burlington, ON

Shannon Slacer is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at Joseph Brant Hospital in Burlington, ON, Shannon is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Shannon's focus is managing acute and chronic conditions affecting the heart and lungs, such as COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, post-operative cardiac or respiratory recovery, and post-COVID symptoms. This involves breathing exercises, airway clearance, exercise prescription, and education. Shannon serves a significant number of senior patients within the community.

Shannon Slacer completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Queen's University (Graduating Class of 2012). With extensive clinical experience, Shannon is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Shannon has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy.

Shannon employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Shannon utilizes a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Shannon empowers patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Shannon offers consultations in English.

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

Cardioresp

• Post-Cardiac Event Rehabilitation (Supportive Care, e.g., after MI or CABG): Physiotherapy to help individuals safely return to physical activity, improve cardiovascular fitness and endurance, and enhance overall heart health after a cardiac incident or procedure, often in a supervised setting initially.
• Asthma Management (Exercise-Induced & General Support): Helping individuals with asthma, including those who experience exercise-induced asthma, to participate more fully and safely in physical activity and sports.
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Management (e.g., Chronic Bronchitis, Emphysema): Physiotherapy interventions for individuals with chronic bronchitis or emphysema, focusing on improving lung function, reducing breathlessness, and increasing ability to perform daily activities.

Post Surgical

• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): Comprehensive shoulder rehabilitation after surgical intervention, following surgeon-specific protocols, to ensure optimal healing, manage pain and swelling, and restore your arm's functional capacity.
• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: Specialized physiotherapy following knee ligament reconstruction surgery to ensure a successful recovery, minimize complications (like stiffness or muscle atrophy), and facilitate a safe and confident return to activity and sport, preventing re-injury.

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 can assess your needs.

• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A thorough evaluation by your Physiotherapist to accurately diagnose movement dysfunctions, injuries, and the underlying sources of your pain.
• Pulmonary Rehabilitation Programs: A structured physiotherapy program designed to help you manage your chronic lung condition more effectively, improve your physical function, and reduce hospital admissions.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Helping you understand how your posture impacts your musculoskeletal health and providing you with tools for lasting postural improvement and pain relief.
• 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.
• Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy (e.g., COPD, Asthma, Post-Pneumonia, Post-Cardiac Event Support): Physiotherapy management of conditions affecting the heart and lungs, including breathing exercises and retraining, airway clearance techniques (e.g., for mucus), education on self-management, and graded exercise programs to improve endurance, reduce breathlessness, and enhance quality of life.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): A systematic screening process, such as FMS™ or SFMA™ (if your Physiotherapist is certified), to understand how you move and guide preventative or corrective exercise programs.

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

• The journey to a reduction in nerve-related symptoms like tingling or numbness when faced with persistent trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury is made smoother and more effective with Shannon's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like managing shopping trips and carrying bags without excessive fatigue or pain.
• Shannon frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of general muscle strains and pulls from overdoing it at the gym or in the garden. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets getting back to enjoying life's simple pleasures without physical limitations and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like painting or drawing for longer stretches without neck or shoulder ache.
• Struggling with the frustration of feeling 'off-balance' and worried about falling, especially as I get older? Shannon develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving increased flexibility throughout their body, particularly in their back and major joints. This is key to helping you get back to doing maintaining an upright posture while working on their computer for hours with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Shannon's clinic, common concerns like persistent dizziness that isn't a spinning vertigo but makes me feel unsteady are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of a return to intimacy without the fear of pain or discomfort. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like reaching for items on high shelves or in cupboards without shoulder strain.

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

Shannon practices at Joseph Brant Hospital, located in the Aldershot South neighborhood of Burlington. The clinic enjoys a convenient location near the Joseph Brant Museum and is easily accessible via Burlington Transit. Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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 private clinic coverage.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at Joseph Brant Hospital treat?

Physiotherapists at Joseph Brant Hospital 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 general physiotherapy and Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy. Our treatments often involve Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment, Pulmonary Rehabilitation Programs, 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.

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.

Does Joseph Brant Hospital offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Please contact the clinic directly to confirm their direct billing policies with insurance providers. Bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. You are responsible for any portion not covered by your insurance.

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

Temporary soreness or a mild increase in symptoms after treatment is sometimes normal, especially initially. However, significant or sharp pain increase, new or worsening neurological symptoms, or prolonged soreness requires contacting the clinic or your physician for advice.

Joseph Brant Hospital
1245 Lakeshore Road
Burlington, ON, L7S 0A2

Phone: (905) 632-3737

Shannon Slacer 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: XXX24

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=ba057e50-9102-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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