Sonika Sharma – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Sonika Sharma is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Scarborough Health Network in Toronto, ON, SONIKA SHARMA is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. SONIKA SHARMA'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. SONIKA SHARMA serves a diverse range of patients.

SONIKA SHARMA completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (Graduating Class of 2014). With clinical experience, SONIKA SHARMA is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. SONIKA SHARMA has a particular interest or further training in areas such as General Physiotherapy Practice and general physiotherapy.

SONIKA SHARMA 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. SONIKA SHARMA offers consultations in English, Hindi, Panjabi, Punjabi.

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

Sports Injury

• Stress Fractures (Activity-Related - Conservative Management/Rehab): A bone injury resulting from an imbalance between bone resorption and bone formation due to repetitive mechanical loading, often seen in runners or athletes who rapidly increase their training.
• Muscle Strains (e.g., Hamstring, Calf, Groin, Quadriceps, Rotator Cuff): Common athletic injuries affecting major muscle groups such as the hamstrings, calves, groin (adductors), quadriceps, or rotator cuff muscles of the shoulder.

Back Neck Pain

• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Symptoms of nerve compression originating from the spine, such as a 'slipped disc' or 'pinched nerve', causing radiating pain, altered sensation, or muscle weakness in a limb.
• 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. SONIKA SHARMA can assess your needs.

• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Assessing your fundamental movement patterns to identify limitations, asymmetries, and potential risk factors for injury or re-injury.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Education on optimal body mechanics and corrective strategies to improve your posture during daily activities, work, and recreation.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): A common physiotherapy treatment for acute injuries, designed to help numb pain, decrease bleeding into the tissues, and minimize secondary hypoxic injury.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: A non-invasive physiotherapy modality that uses sound energy to stimulate cellular activity, enhance circulation, and support tissue recovery from injury or inflammation.
• 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.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: Utilizing therapeutic laser to enhance tissue regeneration, reduce pain signals, and manage inflammation as part of your comprehensive physiotherapy care.

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

• For those whose that grinding or crunching feeling in my knee or shoulder has made simply being able to get through a workday without constant pain interruptions seem like a distant memory, SONIKA SHARMA's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward a significantly reduced risk of falling, enhancing safety and independence. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to simply being able to get through a workday without constant pain interruptions with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• Physiotherapy with SONIKA SHARMA can be a transformative turning point for those affected by recovering from a concussion and dealing with lingering symptoms like dizziness or headaches. The shared goal is achieving a smoother and stronger postpartum recovery, paving the way for you to enjoy running their usual 5k route without knee pain and a more active, vibrant life.
• Struggling with the frustration of a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns)? SONIKA SHARMA develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving a safe and confident return to their favorite sport or recreational activity. This is key to helping you get back to doing tackling home renovation and DIY projects with confidence with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• With SONIKA SHARMA's help, managing frequent headaches that seem to start from tension in my neck or shoulders to achieve being able to play actively with their children or grandchildren again becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like maintaining their balance and stability while walking on uneven ground or trails.

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

SONIKA SHARMA practices at Scarborough Health Network, situated in the Guildwood, Morningside, West Hill neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Royal Ontario Museum and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

It's difficult to say exactly how many sessions you'll need without a thorough assessment, as everyone's situation and recovery path is unique. Some acute conditions might resolve in just a few sessions, while more chronic, complex, or significant issues may require a longer period of care to achieve lasting results. Your Physiotherapist will provide an estimated treatment timeline and plan after your first visit, and this will be revisited as your treatment progresses.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

The primary goal of physiotherapy is generally to reduce pain and improve function, not to cause significant or lasting pain. Some assessment techniques or specific treatments (like deep soft tissue work, joint mobilization, or certain exercises) might cause mild, temporary discomfort or soreness, especially if the tissues being treated are sensitive, inflamed, or very stiff. However, your Physiotherapist will always work within your tolerance levels, communicate clearly about what to expect, and encourage open feedback. If you experience notable or unacceptable pain during treatment, please inform your therapist immediately so adjustments can be made to ensure your comfort.

Does Scarborough Health Network offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

While we do not offer direct billing at this time, we provide detailed official receipts that you can easily submit to your insurer for reimbursement according to your plan. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. Always confirm your specific coverage details, including any annual maximums, per-visit limits, or deductible requirements, directly with your insurance provider, as plans vary significantly. You are responsible for any portion not covered by your insurance.

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

Patients in Ontario can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a physician's referral (this is known as direct access). However, some private/extended health insurance plans do require a referral for reimbursement of physiotherapy services. It is strongly recommended that you check the specific requirements of your individual insurance policy before your first appointment.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at Scarborough Health Network treat?

Our Physiotherapists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. This includes, but is not limited to, issues like back and neck pain (including Cervicogenic Headaches), joint problems (such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery), and sports injuries. We also have therapists with specialized skills in areas like General Physiotherapy Practice and general physiotherapy. Our treatments often involve Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified), Postural Assessment and Correction, and patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

Some temporary post-treatment soreness can be normal, much like after a good workout. However, if your pain significantly worsens, if you develop new concerning symptoms, or if the discomfort doesn't settle down within a day or two, please call us. Your Physiotherapist would want to know so they can offer guidance and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan. Open communication is key to your successful recovery.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

You can expect your initial physiotherapy visit to be around an hour long. This extended time allows for a comprehensive assessment of your condition and a collaborative discussion about your treatment goals. Subsequent follow-up sessions are generally between 30 and 45 minutes, though this can be adjusted based on your individual requirements. Your Physiotherapist will advise on the appropriate appointment length for your specific care.

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 that you check your private insurance for coverage of services in private clinics.

Scarborough Health Network
2867 Ellesmere Road, 3rd Floor
Toronto, ON, M1E 4B9

Phone: (416) 284-8131

Sonika Sharma 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: XXX39

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=0921074a-4889-e911-a983-000d3af42a5a

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