Shaughna Lynn McDonald – Physiotherapist | Ottawa, ON

Shaughna Lynn McDonald is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at Action Potential Rehabilitation in Ottawa, ON, Shaughna McDonald is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Shaughna McDonald's focus is assisting individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life after neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. Shaughna McDonald serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Shaughna Lynn McDonald completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Robert Gordon University (Graduating Class of 2018). With clinical experience, Shaughna McDonald is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Shaughna McDonald has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Neurological Physiotherapy.

Shaughna McDonald's practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Ottawa community through proactive physiotherapy. Shaughna McDonald adopts a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Shaughna McDonald offers consultations in English.

Shaughna Lynn McDonald provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: Physiotherapy for concussion recovery, focusing on symptom management, restoring normal function, and preventing long-term complications through evidence-based interventions.

Vestibular Balance

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Effective, non-invasive treatment for positional dizziness and vertigo using specific head and body movements performed by a trained Vestibular Physiotherapist.
• Vestibular Hypofunction (Unilateral or Bilateral): Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for inner ear balance problems, involving customized exercises that promote central nervous system compensation and adaptation to the weakened vestibular input.
• Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD / 3PD): Vestibular rehabilitation therapy, including habituation exercises, sensory re-weighting, and balance training, often as part of a multidisciplinary approach (which may include medication or CBT), for managing the symptoms of PPPD/3PD.
• General Balance Deficits and Increased Fall Risk: Difficulty maintaining stability during standing, walking, or changing positions, which may be due to various factors including age-related changes, neurological conditions, musculoskeletal weakness, sensory impairments, or medication side effects, often leading to an increased risk of falls.

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. Shaughna McDonald can assess your needs.

• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Developing control, strength, and endurance in your core musculature for improved functional performance, pain reduction, and prevention of re-injury.
• 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.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Personalized programs incorporating various stretching techniques (e.g., static, dynamic, PNF) to alleviate stiffness, increase tissue extensibility, and promote better posture.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: A variety of hands-on methods such as therapeutic massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and active release style techniques to reduce muscle tension, break down scar tissue, improve circulation, and enhance tissue flexibility.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Customized exercise plans designed to help you recover from injury, manage chronic conditions, improve physical performance, and achieve your functional goals safely and effectively.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: A progressive approach to rebuilding your physical condition, allowing for a safe return to daily activities, work demands, and hobbies you enjoy.

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

• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of recovering from a painful and limiting work-related injury (WCB/CNESST/WorkSafe claim)? Shaughna McDonald works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of feeling more positive, capable, and optimistic about their physical health. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as participating in water aerobics or other pool-based exercises.
• Don't let a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns) dictate what you can and cannot do. Shaughna McDonald offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at a safe and confident return to their favorite sport or recreational activity, helping you reclaim getting on and off the floor with ease and enjoy a more functional life.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from managing stiffness, tremors, and movement challenges with Parkinson's disease and achieved a significantly reduced risk of falling, enhancing safety and independence under the skilled care of Shaughna McDonald. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as handling their job that involves frequent standing, walking, or bending with a new lease on life.
• Shaughna McDonald believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If trouble performing repetitive tasks at work without pain is hindering your ability to safely meeting the lifting requirements at their workplace, a personalized plan focusing on increased flexibility throughout their body, particularly in their back and major joints can make all the difference.

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

Shaughna McDonald practices at Action Potential Rehabilitation, located in the Nepean (Centrepoint, Tanglewood, Craig Henry) neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near the Canadian War Museum and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, 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 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 for your appointment, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement. It is strongly recommended that you check with your insurance provider before your first appointment to understand their specific coverage requirements.

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 Action Potential Rehabilitation or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession dedicated to helping people of all ages improve their movement, function, and overall well-being. A registered Physiotherapist uses evidence-based techniques like targeted exercise, hands-on manual therapy, and personalized education to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of injuries, pain conditions, and physical impairments affecting your muscles, bones, joints, nerves, and even your cardiorespiratory system. It can help you reduce pain, increase mobility and strength, recover from surgery, prevent future injuries, and enhance your quality of life.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at Action Potential Rehabilitation treat?

Our Physiotherapists 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 neurological physiotherapy. Our treatments often involve manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, and patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial and integral component of most physiotherapy treatment plans. Your Physiotherapist will prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals. These exercises are designed to complement your in-clinic treatment, help you manage your symptoms effectively between sessions, accelerate your recovery, and empower you with tools for long-term self-management. Your active participation in your home program is key for optimal results.

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.

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

Physiotherapy services in private outpatient clinics are generally not covered by OHIP. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available in specific situations such as 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 that you check your private/extended health insurance plan, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

Action Potential Rehabilitation
300-2081 Merivale Road
Ottawa, ON, K2G 1G9

Phone: (613) 680-6400

Shaughna Lynn McDonald 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: XXX06

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=d4171276-8fa7-e811-816d-480fcff4f671

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