Description
About Smita
Smita Bipinbhai Soni is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Albion Finch Physio & Rehab in Toronto, ON, Smita is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Smita's focus is 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. Smita serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.
Smita Bipinbhai Soni completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Government Physiotherapy College, Ahmedabad (Graduating Class of 2014). With clinical experience, Smita Bipinbhai Soni is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Smita Bipinbhai Soni has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.
Smita employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting; empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results; and a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Smita Bipinbhai Soni offers consultations in English, Gujarati, Hindi.
Common Health Concerns Smita Bipinbhai Soni Addresses
Smita Bipinbhai Soni provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:
Joint Pain
- Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Joint pain, aching, and functional limitation due to the progressive loss of cartilage, which physiotherapy can help manage through exercise, education, and pain relief strategies.
- 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.
Common Musculoskeletal
- Muscle Strains and Tears: A 'pulled' muscle, often occurring during activities like sprinting, jumping, lifting, or sudden changes in direction, causing immediate pain and difficulty using the muscle.
- Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Discomfort felt around the shoulder blade, at the top of the shoulder, or radiating down the arm, making simple tasks challenging.
- Ankle Sprains and Instability: Injuries to ankle ligaments, typically from twisting or 'rolling' motions, leading to pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Can result in recurrent sprains and chronic instability if not properly rehabilitated.
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. Smita can assess your needs.
Smita Bipinbhai Soni's Physiotherapy Services
- Core Stability & Strengthening Training: A progressive program designed to build a strong and stable core, improving your body's foundation for all movements and reducing strain on other structures.
- Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Specific stretches designed by your therapist to target tight muscle groups relevant to your condition, helping to improve your flexibility and reduce your risk of injury.
- 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.
- Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Developing muscular strength and endurance to aid in injury recovery, support affected joints, improve biomechanics, and enhance athletic performance or demanding physical tasks.
- Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Active patient participation through guided, gentle muscle contractions to restore normal joint play, reduce muscle guarding, and improve tissue length.
- Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Skilled hands-on techniques, including gentle joint mobilizations (smooth, rhythmic movements) and, where appropriate and authorized, joint manipulations (quick, precise thrusts) to restore optimal movement, reduce pain, and improve joint function.
Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Smita, 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.
Achieving Your Health Goals with Physiotherapy Care
At Albion Finch Physio & Rehab, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Smita frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- Discover how physiotherapy with Smita can help you move beyond pain in my shins when I try to run or be active (shin splints). The focus is on a greater sense of body confidence and trust in their physical abilities, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as carrying a backpack or shoulder bag comfortably.
- At Smita's physiotherapy practice, individuals with loss of strength in one of my limbs after an injury are guided towards reduced muscle tension and a feeling of greater physical ease. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as getting on and off the floor with ease.
- Dealing with the ongoing challenges of difficulty coordinating my movements, feeling clumsy? Smita works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of a feeling of being 'unstuck' and more supple. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as getting back to cycling for leisure or commuting.
- Tired of that 'pins and needles' feeling that won't go away interfering with peacefully paddling their kayak or canoe on the lake for hours? Smita uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve enhanced ability to participate in social and community events and regain your freedom of movement.
Your personalized physiotherapy plan, developed with Smita, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.
Clinic Location & Accessibility
Smita practices at Albion Finch Physio & Rehab, situated in the South Steeles, Silverstone, Humbergate, Jamestown neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Yonge-Dundas Square and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions about Physiotherapy in Toronto
- 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. Always check your private/extended health insurance plans, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.
- What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?
- Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows the Physiotherapist to easily access and assess the area being treated, and permits you to move freely for any exercises or movements. For example, shorts are ideal for knee, hip, or ankle issues, while a tank top or loose t-shirt works well for shoulder, neck, or upper back problems. Athletic wear or gym attire is generally a good choice. You may also be provided with a gown if needed.
- 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 Albion Finch Physio & Rehab or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.
- Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?
- For your first visit, please bring your provincial health card (e.g., Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) card, if applicable for any publicly funded programs or simply for identification), any relevant medical information such as a doctor's referral note (if you have one), reports from recent imaging (like X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound scans), and a list of your current medications. Also, if you plan to use private health insurance, bring your insurance card or policy details. Finally, wear or bring comfortable clothing suitable for assessment and movement.
- 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.
- What are Albion Finch Physio & Rehab's operating hours?
- Albion Finch Physio & Rehab is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and some practitioners offer Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. However, hours can vary by practitioner and day, so please call the clinic or check their website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.
- What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?
- In physiotherapy, manual therapy encompasses a range of 'hands-on' interventions. Your Physiotherapist may use these techniques to help reduce your pain, increase joint movement, relax tight muscles, or improve the mobility of your nerves. Common approaches include joint glides, sustained pressures, specific soft tissue massage, and, when indicated, joint manipulations. It's a key part of helping your body move better.
- 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.
Clinic Contact & Licensing Information
Albion Finch Physio & Rehab
1620 Albion Road
Toronto, ON, M9V 4B4
Phone: (416) 551-8466
Smita Bipinbhai Soni 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: XXX15
Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=f647140e-0e96-ee11-be37-0022483d058c
Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.