Susan E. Bowman – Physiotherapist | Oakville, ON

Susan E. Bowman is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at ErinoakKids Centre for Treatment and Development in Oakville, ON, Susan is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Susan'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. Susan serves a diverse range of patients, tailoring her approach to meet each individual's unique needs and goals.

Susan E. Bowman completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Western University (Graduating Class of 1996). With extensive clinical experience, Susan is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Susan has a particular interest and further training in areas such as General Physiotherapy Practice and general physiotherapy.

Susan's practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Oakville community through proactive physiotherapy. Susan has a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best possible care. Susan adopts a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Susan offers consultations in English.

Susan E. Bowman provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Back Neck Pain

• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Symptoms resulting from a whiplash injury, which can vary in severity (WAD Grades I-III) and duration, requiring a comprehensive physiotherapy approach for recovery.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: A common cause of persistent back and neck pain due to the cumulative strain of prolonged sitting, standing, or performing tasks in non-ideal positions.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Symptoms like 'neurogenic claudication' – leg pain, cramping, or heaviness with walking or prolonged standing that typically eases with rest or bending forward (flexion).

Sports Injury

• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee / Anterior Knee Pain): A common overuse injury in active individuals and athletes, sometimes referred to as 'runner's knee' or 'anterior knee pain', often related to biomechanical issues in how the kneecap tracks.
• IT Band Syndrome (Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome): Pain, typically sharp or burning, located on the outside (lateral aspect) of the knee, or sometimes the hip. Common in runners, cyclists, and other endurance athletes, caused by irritation or inflammation of the iliotibial (IT) band as it rubs over bony prominences.

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. Susan can assess your needs.

• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Targeted manual methods performed by your Physiotherapist to release tight or overactive muscles, address fascial restrictions, and alleviate pain arising from soft tissue dysfunction.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Hands-on physiotherapy focused on mobilizing restricted joints and soft tissues to promote healing, restore normal biomechanics, and alleviate pain.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): A form of manual therapy that actively involves you in your treatment, utilizing your body's muscular effort to achieve specific therapeutic effects on restricted joints and shortened soft tissues.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Identifying and addressing habitual postures (e.g., from desk work, phone use) or ergonomic factors that may be contributing to your pain or dysfunction.
• 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.
• 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.

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

• If feeling generally stiff, achy, and less mobile than I used to be is preventing you from fully enjoying shoveling snow or raking leaves without aggravating their back, Susan offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining getting back to hiking, running, or cycling pain-free and with renewed vigor, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• With Susan's help, managing needing to improve my breathing patterns or lung capacity to achieve getting back to enjoying life's simple pleasures without physical limitations becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like getting back to golfing 18 holes without their back acting up.
• At Susan's physiotherapy practice, individuals with my baby/child having trouble with their motor skills, like delayed rolling, sitting or walking are guided towards feeling more resilient and less vulnerable to minor strains or injuries. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as managing shopping trips and carrying bags without excessive fatigue or pain.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from facial weakness or drooping on one side (like Bell's Palsy) and achieved feeling a substantial improvement in their mobility and range of motion for easier movement under the skilled care of Susan. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as getting on and off the floor with ease with a new lease on life.

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

Susan practices at ErinoakKids Centre for Treatment and Development, situated in the West Oak Trails, Glen Abbey West neighborhood of Oakville. The clinic is conveniently located near access to GO Stations and is accessible via Oakville Transit. Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy refers to specialized hands-on techniques used by a Physiotherapist to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. This can include joint mobilization (gentle, rhythmic gliding movements), joint manipulation (skilled, high-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts, where appropriate and within the therapist's scope and with your consent), various soft tissue mobilization techniques (like massage, myofascial release, trigger point release), and neural mobilization (gentle techniques to improve nerve movement). The primary goals are to reduce pain, improve range of motion, restore optimal joint mechanics, reduce muscle tension, and enhance tissue repair and function.

Is there parking available at or near ErinoakKids Centre for Treatment and Development?

Yes, there is ample free patient parking available directly in front of and beside the building. Look for the designated patient spots.

Does ErinoakKids Centre for Treatment and Development 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.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

While some physiotherapy techniques might feel uncomfortable or cause a temporary increase in soreness (similar to muscle soreness after a new workout), especially when working on stiff joints or tight muscles, it should not be excessively or intolerably painful. Your Physiotherapist will discuss what sensations you might expect with different treatments and will always aim to adjust the intensity and techniques to ensure you are as comfortable as possible while still achieving therapeutic benefits. Constant communication about your comfort level is very important.

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

No, you do not need a doctor's referral to see a Physiotherapist in Ontario. This is known as direct access. However, some private/extended health insurance plans may 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 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 ErinoakKids Centre for Treatment and Development or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

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 to check your private insurance for coverage of services in private clinics.

ErinoakKids Centre for Treatment and Development
2000 Glenorchy Rd
Oakville, ON, L6M 0X4

Phone: (905) 855-2690

Susan E. Bowman 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: XXX46

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=62bf15b8-8b02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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