Shuang Fan – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Jessica is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Humber River Hospital in Toronto, ON, Jessica is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Jessica focuses on addressing 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. Jessica serves adults.

Jessica completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 2008). With extensive clinical experience, Jessica is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Jessica has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Jessica's practice philosophy centers on a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting; and promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Toronto community through proactive physiotherapy. Jessica offers consultations in English and Mandarin.

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

Common Musculoskeletal

• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Discomfort experienced in the hip region, groin, outer hip, or buttock, potentially stemming from joint inflammation (bursitis), muscle strains, tendinopathy, or conservative management of labral tears.
• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Aching, sharp pain, a feeling of the knee 'giving way', or difficulty fully bending or straightening your knee.
• 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.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Common ankle injuries causing acute pain, persistent swelling, and instability, significantly affecting your ability to walk, run, or participate in sports.

Back Neck Pain

• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Neck, shoulder, and upper back discomfort, often accompanied by headaches or 'brain fog', after a sudden jerking motion of the head, such as in a rear-end collision.
• 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: Pain and muscle tension related to ergonomic factors at work or home, muscle imbalances, and suboptimal body mechanics or movement habits.
• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Sharp, shooting, electric-like, or burning pain that travels along the path of a nerve due to issues with intervertebral discs or other spinal structures.

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. Jessica can assess your needs.

• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Using controlled isometric and isotonic muscle contractions, as directed by your Physiotherapist, to address joint restrictions and muscle imbalances effectively.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Gentle, specific movements and mobilizations designed to address nerve-related pain (like sciatica or carpal tunnel symptoms), tingling, numbness, or restrictions by improving the nerve's ability to glide freely and reducing irritation.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Empowering you with a clear understanding of your condition, its causes, and practical tools for effective self-management and lasting relief.

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

• Discover how physiotherapy with Jessica can help you move beyond recovering from a burn and needing help with scar mobility and movement. The focus is on effectively managing chronic pain and reclaiming an active lifestyle, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as taking group exercise classes at the community center.
• Patients often come to Jessica feeling defeated by recurrent dislocations or a feeling of instability in my shoulder or knee. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving improved breathing mechanics and capacity through postural correction and resuming comfortably cooking and meal prepping for their family becomes a realistic and attainable goal.
• Physiotherapy with Jessica can be a transformative turning point for those affected by pain and difficulty with overhead movements like reaching into a cupboard. The shared goal is achieving improved balance and coordination, leading to safer and more confident mobility in seniors, paving the way for you to enjoy setting up and taking down equipment for hobbies or sports and a more active, vibrant life.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Jessica's clinic, common concerns like one leg feeling shorter than the other, causing hip or back pain are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of getting back to hiking, running, or cycling pain-free and with renewed vigor. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like maintaining their balance and stability while walking on uneven ground or trails.

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

Jessica practices at Humber River Hospital, situated in the Downsview Central neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Meridian Hall and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

The first physiotherapy session is primarily an in-depth assessment. Expect to spend time talking with your Physiotherapist about your specific issue, its history, and your overall health background. Your therapist will then perform various physical tests to assess your movement, strength, and any areas of concern. The main goal of this first visit is to understand your condition fully so that a tailored and effective treatment plan can be developed collaboratively with you. You might also receive your first set of home exercises or some initial hands-on care to start the healing process.

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.

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

In Ontario, you can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a physician's referral (direct access). However, some private/extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement. 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 children/youth, seniors, or through Community Physiotherapy Clinics/Family Health Teams), but eligibility is strict. Check your private insurance for coverage.

How can I book an appointment at Humber River Hospital?

You can book an appointment by calling the clinic directly at (416) 242-1000 during business hours. The reception team can assist you in finding a suitable appointment time.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at Humber River Hospital treat?

Our Physiotherapists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes back and neck pain, joint problems, sports injuries, and nerve pain. We also have therapists with specialized skills in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy. Our treatments often involve manual therapy, exercise prescription, and patient education.

Humber River Hospital
1235 Wilson Ave.
Toronto, ON, M3M 0B2

Phone: (416) 242-1000

Shuang Fan 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: XXX27

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=35859fb3-8f02-e811-813f-480fcff40721

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