Sharon Levison – Physiotherapist | Ottawa, ON

Sharon Levison is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at University of Ottawa Heart Institute in Ottawa, ON, Sharon Levison is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Sharon Levison specializes in 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. Sharon Levison's approach involves breathing exercises, airway clearance, exercise prescription, and education, serving adults.

Sharon Levison completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McGill University (Graduating Class of 2000). With extensive clinical experience, Sharon Levison is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Sharon Levison has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy.

Sharon Levison's practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Ottawa community through proactive physiotherapy; empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Sharon Levison offers consultations in English.

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

Joint Pain

• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Conditions like 'jumper's knee' (patellar tendinopathy), 'swimmer's shoulder' (rotator cuff tendinopathy), or 'tennis elbow' (lateral epicondylitis) caused by tendon issues that limit your ability to perform specific tasks.
• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Commonly known as 'wear-and-tear' arthritis, this condition affects various joints, often worsening with age, overuse, or previous injury, and can significantly impact daily function.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Neck problems that interfere with your sleep quality, ability to work comfortably (especially at a desk), or perform everyday tasks without pain.
• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Aching, sharp, or deep pain in the hip that may worsen with activity, specific movements, or even at rest.
• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Knee problems that limit your ability to stay active, perform daily tasks, or enjoy your hobbies, for which physiotherapy offers effective solutions.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): A broad term for common injuries affecting muscles, tendons (tendinitis/tendinopathy), ligaments (sprains), joint capsules (capsulitis), and bursae (bursitis), leading to pain, inflammation, and functional limitations.

Post Surgical

• Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): Guidance on hip precautions (if applicable for your surgical approach), a progressive exercise program, and functional retraining after hip surgery to help you achieve your goals.
• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): A progressive exercise program, often combined with manual therapy, designed to gradually restore your shoulder's range of motion, strength, and coordination following your operation.
• Post-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): Specialized physiotherapy after knee joint replacement surgery to help you regain independence, optimize your surgical outcome, and return to desired daily activities and hobbies.
• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): Physiotherapy aimed at restoring movement, strength, and function after surgical repair of broken bones (e.g., Open Reduction Internal Fixation - ORIF, intramedullary nailing), once the fracture site is sufficiently healed and cleared for rehabilitation by your surgeon.

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. Sharon Levison 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.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A complete assessment of your musculoskeletal system to pinpoint issues, set clear rehabilitation goals, and get you started on the path to recovery.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): A form of manual therapy that actively involves you in your treatment, utilizing your body's muscular effort to achieve specific therapeutic effects on restricted joints and shortened soft tissues.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Targeted manual methods performed by your Physiotherapist to release tight or overactive muscles, address fascial restrictions, and alleviate pain arising from soft tissue dysfunction.
• 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.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Educating you about your diagnosis, expected recovery timeline (prognosis), and the reasons behind your treatment plan to encourage active participation in your healing.

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

• Struggling with the frustration of trouble with everyday tasks because of pain or weakness in my hands or grip? Sharon Levison develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving greater ease in performing overhead activities or reaching. This is key to helping you get back to doing actively participating in family outings and vacations without holding others back with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Sharon Levison'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 getting their strength back after surgery or a period of inactivity. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like enduring their daily commute, whether driving or on public transit, without stiffness.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from pain or weakness that's stopping me from enjoying my favorite hobbies and achieved running their usual distance comfortably and with improved form under the skilled care of Sharon Levison. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as peacefully paddling their kayak or canoe on the lake for hours with a new lease on life.
• It's truly rewarding for Sharon Levison to witness patients conquer feeling like my posture is hunched or rounded, causing discomfort and experience regaining full function in an injured area, enabling a return to cherished activities. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in attending their favorite yoga and pilates classes without limitation again.

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

Sharon Levison practices at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, located in the Hintonburg, Civic Hospital, Westboro East neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near CF Rideau Centre and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

How can I book an appointment at University of Ottawa Heart Institute?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (613) 696-7000 during our business hours. Many of our practitioners also offer the convenience of online booking through our website at [Website Address Here]. Our friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable appointment time with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

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 recommended to check your private insurance for coverage of services at a private clinic.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy, delivered by a qualified Physiotherapist, is a science-based profession that focuses on restoring movement and function when someone is affected by injury, illness, or disability. It can also help to reduce your risk of future problems. Your physiotherapist will use techniques such as therapeutic exercise, manual therapy (hands-on treatment), education, and advice, empowering you to manage your health independently and achieve your physical goals.

What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

Comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement is best for your physiotherapy appointment – think about what you might wear to a gym or for light exercise. If you're being treated for a lower-body issue (like hip or knee pain), shorts are very helpful. For upper-body issues (like shoulder or neck pain), a tank top or loose t-shirt is suitable so the Physiotherapist can properly examine and treat the area.

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.

University of Ottawa Heart Institute
40 Ruskin Street
Ottawa, ON, K1Y 4W7

Phone: (613) 696-7000

Sharon Levison 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: XXX70

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=e452c0c2-8c02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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