Shelby Lam – Physiotherapist | Markham, ON

Shelby Lam is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Markham Stouffville Hospital in Markham, ON, Shelby Lam is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Shelby Lam's focus is providing comprehensive assessment and treatment for a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal injuries, pain conditions, and movement dysfunctions to help patients of all ages restore function, manage pain, and improve their quality of life. Shelby Lam serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Shelby Lam completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Toronto (Graduating Class of 2018). With clinical experience, Shelby Lam is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Shelby Lam has a particular interest or further training in areas such as General Physiotherapy Practice and general physiotherapy.

Shelby Lam demonstrates a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals; and a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Shelby Lam offers consultations in Cantonese, English.

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

Back Neck Pain

• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Nerve compression symptoms due to a narrowing (stenosis) of the spinal canal or the small openings where nerves exit the spine (foramina), most commonly in the lumbar (lower back) or cervical (neck) regions.
• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Back or neck pain that often radiates into an arm or leg, potentially with numbness, tingling, weakness, or burning sensations, due to a spinal disc problem (herniation, protrusion, or bulge) compressing or irritating a nearby nerve root (radiculopathy). Sciatica specifically refers to radicular pain down the leg.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Discomfort, aching, stiffness, or muscle fatigue in the back or neck arising from sustained or awkward postures during daily activities, prolonged work (e.g., desk work, computer use), or sleep.
• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): A range of neck and related symptoms including pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and sometimes arm pain or cognitive difficulties, following a rapid acceleration-deceleration injury to the neck, most typically from a motor vehicle accident.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Muscle Strains and Tears: Damage or tearing of muscle fibers, ranging from a mild overstretch (Grade 1 strain) to a partial or complete rupture (Grade 2 or 3 tear), typically caused by sudden forceful contraction, excessive stretch, or direct trauma.
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Common shoulder problems such as rotator cuff issues (tendinopathy, small tears), impingement syndrome, or adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) significantly affecting arm function and daily comfort.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Common back problems that can impact your posture, ability to perform daily activities, and overall mobility, addressed with targeted physiotherapy.

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): A chronic condition causing joint discomfort, stiffness (especially in the morning or after inactivity), and impacting your ability to perform daily activities, walk, or engage in hobbies.

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. Shelby Lam can assess your needs.

• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: A specialized physiotherapy treatment that uses a traction table or manual techniques to gently decompress spinal structures, relieve pressure, and promote healing.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Hands-on treatment focusing on your body's soft tissues to restore pliability, reduce discomfort, and optimize movement quality.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: The use of moist heat packs, paraffin wax, or other heat sources by your Physiotherapist to relax muscles, increase local blood flow, reduce stiffness, alleviate chronic pain, and improve tissue extensibility.
• 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.
• 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.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Manual treatments specifically designed to improve joint mechanics, alleviate discomfort, reduce stiffness, and enhance your range of motion in the spine or limbs.

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

• If that persistent ache in my lower back that just won't quit is preventing you from fully enjoying pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty, Shelby Lam offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining getting back their independence with daily activities and personal care, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• Are you finding that working on getting back to normal after a fracture or other surgery stops you from enjoying dancing the night away at social events and family celebrations? Shelby Lam is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve a noticeable reduction in daily discomfort, making everyday tasks easier and more enjoyable through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.
• Physiotherapy with Shelby Lam can be a transformative turning point for those affected by persistent dizziness that isn't a spinning vertigo but makes me feel unsteady. The shared goal is achieving restoring normal movement patterns essential for everyday tasks, paving the way for you to enjoy feeling energetic enough to engage in social activities in the evenings and a more active, vibrant life.
• At Shelby Lam's physiotherapy practice, individuals with numbness, tingling, or weakness in my hands, arms, feet, or legs are guided towards less reliance on pain medication, trusting more in their body's ability to heal and function. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as playing in their competitive volleyball league again.

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

Shelby Lam's practice at Markham Stouffville Hospital is situated in the Markham Village, Old Markham Village neighborhood of Markham. The clinic is conveniently located near Toogood Pond Park and is accessible via York Region Transit (YRT) / Viva. Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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.

How can I book an appointment at Markham Stouffville Hospital?

You can book an appointment by calling the clinic directly at (905) 472-7373 during business hours. Shelby Lam may also offer online booking options through the hospital's website; check for availability. The friendly reception team will assist you in finding a suitable appointment time.

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

In Ontario, you can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a doctor's referral (direct access). However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for coverage. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

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

OHIP generally does NOT cover physiotherapy services in private outpatient clinics. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available in specific situations (e.g., post-hospitalization, for certain demographics) but with strict eligibility and potential waitlists. Check your private insurance for coverage, as many plans offer significant benefits for physiotherapy in private clinics. Always verify your eligibility with OHIP directly.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

The number of sessions needed varies depending on your individual condition and recovery progress. Shelby Lam will provide an estimated timeline after your initial assessment, which may be adjusted as treatment progresses.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial part of most physiotherapy treatment plans. Shelby Lam will provide exercises tailored to your needs to complement in-clinic treatment and accelerate your recovery.

Does Markham Stouffville Hospital offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Please contact Markham Stouffville Hospital directly to inquire about their direct billing policies with private insurance providers. Bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment to confirm coverage and any out-of-pocket costs.

Markham Stouffville Hospital
381 Church St., PO Box 1800
Markham, ON, L3P 7P3

Phone: (905) 472-7373

Shelby Lam 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: XXX72

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=bac91054-12b2-e811-816f-480fcff4f671

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