Stephanie Gardonio – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Stephanie Gardonio is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Strive Physiotherapy and Sports Medicine in Toronto, ON, Stephanie Gardonio is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Stephanie Gardonio'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. Stephanie Gardonio also provides specialized assessment and treatment for conditions related to the pelvic floor and surrounding region for all genders. This includes issues such as incontinence, pelvic pain, pelvic organ prolapse, sexual dysfunction, and pre/post-natal concerns. Stephanie Gardonio serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Stephanie Gardonio completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Queen's University (Graduating Class of 2009). With extensive clinical experience, Stephanie Gardonio is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Stephanie Gardonio has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Pelvic Health Physiotherapy and Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Stephanie Gardonio's practice philosophy centers on 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 empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Stephanie Gardonio offers consultations in English.

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

Arthritis

• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Helping you regain mobility, reduce discomfort, and improve function in affected joints after a gout episode, as part of your overall gout management plan.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Helping you live well with rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory arthropathies through targeted physiotherapy interventions designed to manage symptoms, preserve function, and promote overall well-being.

Pelvic Health

• Constipation / Bowel Dysfunction (Pelvic Floor Related): Physiotherapy interventions provided by a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist to improve bowel function through pelvic floor muscle retraining (relaxation and coordination), optimizing toileting mechanics and posture, biofeedback, and lifestyle/dietary advice.
• Urinary Incontinence (Stress, Urge, Mixed - Men & Women): Addressing bladder control problems and improving continence with the help of a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist, focusing on restoring pelvic floor muscle function.

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. Stephanie Gardonio can assess your needs.

• 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.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Guided stretching routines and flexibility exercises prescribed by your Physiotherapist, aimed at improving your range of motion, reducing muscle tightness or stiffness, and enhancing overall movement quality.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Progressive resistance training programs designed by your Physiotherapist to improve muscle performance, support joint health, and enhance functional capacity for daily life or sport.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Structured physical activities and exercises aimed at helping you safely regain strength, stamina, and confidence in your body's abilities, tailored to your current level.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Customized exercise plans designed to help you recover from injury, manage chronic conditions, improve physical performance, and achieve your functional goals safely and effectively.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Utilizing targeted electrical currents to help alleviate pain, manage discomfort, and support healing in conjunction with other physiotherapy interventions.

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

• Patients often come to Stephanie Gardonio feeling defeated by feeling like my posture is hunched or rounded, causing discomfort. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving getting their strength back after surgery or a period of inactivity and resuming playing fetch with their dog in the park for an extended time becomes a realistic and attainable goal.
• At Stephanie Gardonio's physiotherapy practice, individuals with an old ankle sprain that never seems to fully heal and still feels weak are guided towards reduced swelling and inflammation in injured areas. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as hitting the slopes for a full day of skiing or snowboarding in winter.
• The journey to improved ability to lift and carry objects correctly and safely when faced with persistent facial weakness or drooping on one side (like Bell's Palsy) is made smoother and more effective with Stephanie Gardonio's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like being able to kneel or squat down to play with pets or children.
• It's truly rewarding for Stephanie Gardonio to witness patients conquer that grinding or crunching feeling in my knee or shoulder and experience a deeper understanding of their condition and how to manage it proactively for long-term well-being. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in peacefully paddling their kayak or canoe on the lake for hours again.

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

Stephanie Gardonio practices at Strive Physiotherapy and Sports Medicine, situated in the Davisville North neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near the US Consulate and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Absolutely! Home exercises are a vital part of your rehabilitation journey and empower you to take an active role in your recovery process. Your Physiotherapist will carefully select and teach you exercises specific to your needs. These exercises help to reinforce what's done in the clinic, manage your condition effectively, and ensure you continue progressing towards your goals even when you're not in a session.

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 insurance coverage, as many plans offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

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 is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy, delivered by a qualified Physiotherapist, is a science-based profession that focuses on restoring movement and function when someone is affected by injury, illness, or disability. It can also help to reduce your risk of future problems. Your physiotherapist will use techniques such as therapeutic exercise, manual therapy (hands-on treatment), education, and advice, empowering you to manage your health independently and achieve your physical goals.

Is there parking available at or near Strive Physiotherapy and Sports Medicine?

Ample free parking is available directly in front of and beside the building. Look for designated patient spots.

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

Bring your health card, any doctor's referral letter (if applicable), imaging test results, a medication list, and your extended health benefits information for direct billing (if available). Wear comfortable clothing.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

Physiotherapy should not be painful. You might feel some discomfort or stretching, but it should not be distressing. Your Physiotherapist will adjust treatments to ensure your comfort.

Strive Physiotherapy and Sports Medicine
1604 - 2300 Yonge Street
Toronto, ON, M4P 1E4

Phone: (416) 486-4776

Stephanie Gardonio 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: XXX97

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=d99aa307-9002-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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