Stuart J. Hopcraft – Physiotherapist | Burlington, ON

Stuart J. Hopcraft is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Sports Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at Burlington Physiotherapy & Sports Medicine Centre in Burlington, ON, Stuart J. Hopcraft is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Stuart J. Hopcraft specializes in the assessment, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries. Care is tailored to help athletes of all levels, from recreational to elite, return to their sport safely, optimize performance, and prevent future injuries. Stuart J. Hopcraft serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Stuart J. Hopcraft completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 2000). With clinical experience, Stuart J. Hopcraft is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Stuart J. Hopcraft has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Sports Physiotherapy.

Stuart J. Hopcraft employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting; a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Stuart J. Hopcraft offers consultations in English.

Stuart J. Hopcraft provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Post Surgical

• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): A progressive rehabilitation program after surgery to fix a broken bone, helping you regain full use of your arm or leg and return to your normal activities.
• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: Specialized physiotherapy following knee ligament reconstruction surgery to ensure a successful recovery, minimize complications (like stiffness or muscle atrophy), and facilitate a safe and confident return to activity and sport, preventing re-injury.
• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): A carefully managed and individualized physiotherapy program to help you regain confidence in your spine, improve functional capacity, and prevent future issues after spinal surgery.
• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): A progressive exercise program, often combined with manual therapy, designed to gradually restore your shoulder's range of motion, strength, and coordination following your operation.

Sports Injury

• Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome): Inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue (periosteum) around the tibia, which requires rest, activity modification, and specific physiotherapy interventions for recovery.
• Stress Fractures (Activity-Related - Conservative Management/Rehab): Localized bone pain that typically worsens with activity and is relieved by rest, often accompanied by tenderness to touch over the affected bone.
• IT Band Syndrome (Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome): Sharp or burning pain on the outer side of the knee that often starts gradually and worsens with continued activity, sometimes radiating up the thigh or down the leg.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Weakness, a feeling of the ankle 'giving way' repeatedly, or persistent pain after an initial sprain, indicating a need for targeted physiotherapy to restore stability and function.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): A broad term for common injuries affecting muscles, tendons (tendinitis/tendinopathy), ligaments (sprains), joint capsules (capsulitis), and bursae (bursitis), leading to pain, inflammation, and functional limitations.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Aching, sharp, or persistent pain located in the lower back, which may sometimes extend into the buttocks or legs, limiting your comfort.
• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Aching, burning, sharp pain, or a 'pins and needles' sensation in the wrist, thumb, or hand region, sometimes waking you at night.

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. Stuart J. Hopcraft can assess your needs.

• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Ultrasound therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, often used to prepare tissues for manual therapy or exercise, or to manage acute and chronic soft tissue injuries.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: A comforting physiotherapy modality that helps to soothe tight muscles, decrease pain perception, and improve the flexibility of soft tissues.
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): A non-invasive, evidence-based treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing, reduce pain, and promote tissue regeneration in stubborn soft tissue conditions that haven't responded to other therapies.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Cold therapy techniques applied by your therapist to effectively alleviate acute pain, reduce inflammation, and manage muscle soreness or spasm.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): The therapeutic use of different electrical currents by your Physiotherapist to achieve specific physiological effects, such as improving muscle contraction, reducing atrophy, or enhancing functional movement.
• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: A specialized physiotherapy treatment that uses a traction table or manual techniques to gently decompress spinal structures, relieve pressure, and promote healing.

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

• Rediscover your ability to engaging in detailed crafting, sewing, or knitting hobbies for hours without the constant burden of knee pain, especially when going up/down stairs or after a run. Stuart J. Hopcraft focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to a feeling of being 'unstuck' and more supple, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
• Struggling with the frustration of recovering from a concussion and dealing with lingering symptoms like dizziness or headaches? Stuart J. Hopcraft develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving improved ability to lift and carry objects correctly and safely. This is key to helping you get back to doing participating in water aerobics or other pool-based exercises with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• The journey to successfully avoiding or delaying the need for more invasive treatments or surgery when faced with persistent recovering from a painful and limiting work-related injury (WCB/CNESST/WorkSafe claim) is made smoother and more effective with Stuart J. Hopcraft's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like using garden tools effectively and without pain.
• When aches and pains that I'm pretty sure are from my bad posture at my desk is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty, physiotherapy with Stuart J. Hopcraft can help you work towards enhanced recovery from post-surgical procedures with fewer complications. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.

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

Stuart J. Hopcraft's practice at Burlington Physiotherapy & Sports Medicine Centre is situated in the Maple, Dynes neighborhood of Burlington. The clinic is conveniently located near Downtown Burlington and is accessible via Burlington Transit. Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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

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.

What is Burlington Physiotherapy & Sports Medicine Centre's appointment cancellation policy?

We understand that schedules can change unexpectedly. To ensure we can accommodate all our patients efficiently, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer the time slot to other patients who may be waiting for care. A fee may be charged for late cancellations (less than 24 hours' notice) or missed appointments without sufficient notice. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your appointment.

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.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

While some physiotherapy techniques might feel uncomfortable or cause temporary soreness, it should not be excessively painful. Your Physiotherapist will discuss what to expect and adjust techniques to ensure your comfort.

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

Some temporary post-treatment soreness is normal. However, if your pain significantly worsens, you develop new symptoms, or discomfort doesn't subside within a day or two, please contact the clinic.

Burlington Physiotherapy & Sports Medicine Centre
25-2025 Upper Middle Road
Burlington, ON, L7P 4K1

Phone: (905) 335-5115

Stuart J. Hopcraft 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: XXX32

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=7f70d0c8-8c02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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