Shelley Anne Goetze O’Connor – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Shelley Anne Goetze O'Connor is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Inside Out Physiotherapy and Wellness Group in Toronto, ON, Shelley is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Shelley addresses 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. Shelley serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Shelley Anne Goetze O'Connor completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Toronto (Graduating Class of 1989). With extensive clinical experience, Shelley is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Shelley has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Shelley has a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; Shelley promotes preventative care and long-term wellness for the Toronto community through proactive physiotherapy; Shelley employs a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Shelley Anne Goetze O'Connor offers consultations in English.

Shelley Anne Goetze O'Connor provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): A condition where a finger or thumb gets stuck or 'catches' in a bent position, then may snap straight (like pulling a trigger). Caused by inflammation and narrowing of the tendon sheath around the flexor tendon.
• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Focused physiotherapy care for complex hand and wrist problems, often involving custom splinting or orthosis fabrication, manual therapy (joint and soft tissue mobilization), specific exercises to restore dexterity, strength, and range of motion, scar management, and sensory re-education.

Back Neck Pain

• 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.
• 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).
• 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.

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. Shelley can assess your needs.

• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: Therapeutic traction for the cervical (neck) or lumbar (low back) spine, used by physiotherapists to help reduce pain, decompress nerve roots, and improve symptoms associated with conditions like disc herniations, sciatica, or spinal stenosis.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Application of skilled soft tissue techniques to manage pain, stiffness, and improve function in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Employing different types of electrotherapy to support your rehabilitation goals, including promoting tissue healing or improving motor control.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: A non-invasive electrotherapy modality aimed at reducing pain, muscle guarding, or swelling, and sometimes used for muscle strengthening, as part of your physiotherapy treatment.
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): The application of focused acoustic waves (Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy) by a trained Physiotherapist to treat chronic tendon issues (e.g., plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, Achilles tendinopathy), calcific tendinosis, and other persistent musculoskeletal conditions.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: Application of therapeutic heat to prepare tissues for exercise, manual therapy, or stretching, or to manage chronic muscle soreness and joint stiffness.

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

• For those whose feeling 'off-balance' and worried about falling, especially as I get older has made standing for longer periods, for example, while cooking or at an event seem like a distant memory, Shelley's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward improved joint health and a slowing of degenerative processes through better biomechanics. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to standing for longer periods, for example, while cooking or at an event with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• Physiotherapy with Shelley 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 a safe and confident return to their favorite sport or recreational activity, paving the way for you to enjoy dancing the night away at social events and family celebrations and a more active, vibrant life.
• The path to recovery from experiencing discomfort, back pain, or pelvic girdle pain during or after pregnancy and achieving a renewed sense of vitality and enthusiasm for daily activities for using garden tools effectively and without pain often starts with expert guidance. Shelley, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of pain and difficulty with overhead movements like reaching into a cupboard? Shelley works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of better managing flare-ups with personalized strategies and feeling more in control of their symptoms. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as easily carrying groceries in from the car in one or two trips.

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

Shelley practices at Inside Out Physiotherapy and Wellness Group, located in the Annex, North Midtown, Yorkville neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Nathan Phillips Square 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?

Your first physiotherapy appointment, which includes a detailed assessment and the development of your initial treatment plan, usually takes about 60 minutes. Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled for 30 to 45 minutes. The exact duration of each session will depend on the nature of your treatment and what your Physiotherapist has planned for that specific visit to best help you progress.

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.

Is there parking available at or near Inside Out Physiotherapy and Wellness Group?

Paid parking is available in lots near the clinic. Street parking is also available, but please check local signage for restrictions and time limits.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at Inside Out Physiotherapy and Wellness Group treat?

Our Physiotherapists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including back and neck pain, joint problems (arthritis, post-surgical recovery), sports injuries, and nerve pain. We also offer specialized services in orthopedic and musculoskeletal physiotherapy. Treatments often involve manual therapy, electrotherapy, and exercise prescription.

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

No, you do not need a doctor's referral to see a physiotherapist in Ontario. However, some extended health insurance plans may require a referral for coverage; check your policy details.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

The number of sessions needed varies depending on your condition, its severity, your goals, and your response to treatment. Your physiotherapist will provide an estimate after your initial assessment and will continually re-evaluate your progress.

Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?

Please bring your health card, doctor's referral (if applicable), imaging reports (X-rays, etc.), medication list, and insurance information for direct billing (if available). Wear comfortable clothing.

Inside Out Physiotherapy and Wellness Group
1200 Bay Street, Suite 502
Toronto, ON, M5R 2A5

Phone: (416) 925-0050

Shelley Anne Goetze O'Connor 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: XXX47

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=cfee1772-8a02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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