Susan Fink – Physiotherapist | Cambridge, ON

Susan Fink is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Altum Health in Cambridge, ON, Sue is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Sue addresses 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. Sue serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Susan Fink completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 2002). With extensive clinical experience, Susan Fink is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Susan Fink has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Sue's practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Cambridge community through proactive physiotherapy; empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Susan Fink offers consultations in English.

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

Post Surgical

• Post-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): A structured physiotherapy program to manage post-operative pain and swelling, improve knee flexibility and strength, and re-educate your gait pattern after a TKA or PKA.
• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): Restoring your ability to perform daily tasks, work, and recreational activities by addressing pain, stiffness, and weakness after your shoulder surgery.

Joint Pain

• 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.
• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A chronic condition causing joint discomfort, stiffness (especially in the morning or after inactivity), and impacting your ability to perform daily activities, walk, or engage in hobbies.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Common injuries related to physical activity, sports participation, accidental falls, or overuse from daily or work-related tasks.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: Damage or tearing of muscle fibers, ranging from a mild overstretch (Grade 1 strain) to a partial or complete rupture (Grade 2 or 3 tear), typically caused by sudden forceful contraction, excessive stretch, or direct trauma.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Pain, discomfort, or stiffness in the lumbar spine region, whether it's a sudden onset or a long-lasting issue affecting your daily life.
• 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. Sue can assess your needs.

• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Customized strength training to address specific weaknesses identified in your assessment, helping to correct imbalances, improve movement efficiency, and achieve your physical objectives.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Development of a tailored therapeutic exercise program by your Physiotherapist, focused on your specific rehabilitation needs, strength goals, flexibility improvements, balance, and overall conditioning.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: The use of moist heat packs, paraffin wax, or other heat sources by your Physiotherapist to relax muscles, increase local blood flow, reduce stiffness, alleviate chronic pain, and improve tissue extensibility.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Application of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) or Interferential Current (IFC) for managing acute or chronic pain conditions by modulating pain signals or promoting the release of endorphins.
• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: Utilizing traction techniques to create space within the spine, reduce nerve irritation, improve disc hydration, and alleviate back or neck pain.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: A progressive approach to rebuilding your physical condition, allowing for a safe return to daily activities, work demands, and hobbies you enjoy.

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

• The journey to feeling more positive, capable, and optimistic about their physical health when faced with persistent trouble with a constantly stiff and sore neck, making turning my head a pain is made smoother and more effective with Sue's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like participating in light recreational activities like bowling or mini-golf.
• Living with persistent dizziness that isn't a spinning vertigo but makes me feel unsteady doesn't have to be your norm. Sue applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards getting back their independence with daily activities and personal care, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of joining in on pickup basketball games at the local court.
• Rediscover your ability to getting back to golfing 18 holes without their back acting up without the constant burden of hip pain when I walk, climb stairs, or try to sleep on my side. Sue focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to getting their strength back after surgery or a period of inactivity, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
• Tired of feeling like my posture is hunched or rounded, causing discomfort interfering with giving presentations or speaking publicly with confidence and good posture? Sue uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve a better understanding of ergonomics for their work and home environment and regain your freedom of movement.

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

Sue's practice at Altum Health is located in the Preston Centre, in the Preston Heights neighborhood of Cambridge. The clinic is conveniently located near various plazas and is accessible via Grand River Transit (GRT). Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

I have private health insurance. How does that work with physiotherapy payments?

Many private health insurance plans offer full or partial coverage for registered physiotherapy services. We recommend you contact your insurance provider directly before your first appointment to understand the specifics of your plan. Key things to check are: your annual maximum for physiotherapy, any per-visit limits or co-payments, whether a doctor's referral is required for reimbursement, and if your plan allows for direct billing by the clinic. If Altum Health offers direct billing and your plan allows it, we can often bill your insurer directly for the covered portion. You would then be responsible for any co-payment or remaining balance not covered by your plan at the time of service. Please bring your insurance card and all necessary policy details to your first appointment. If direct billing is not possible, we will provide you with an official receipt that you can submit to your insurer.

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. We strongly advise checking your private insurance for private clinic coverage.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at Altum Health treat?

Our Physiotherapists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes, but is not limited to, issues like back and neck pain, joint problems (such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery), sports injuries, and nerve pain. We also have therapists with specialized skills in areas like Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy. Our treatments often involve manual therapy, exercise prescription, and patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.

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 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), any relevant medical information such as a doctor's referral note (if you have one), reports from recent imaging, 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.

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 can I book an appointment at Altum Health?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (519) 622-5885 during our business hours. Our friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable appointment time with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

Altum Health
101 - 745 Coronation Blvd.
Cambridge, ON, N1R 0B6

Phone: (519) 622-5885

Susan Fink 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=3243d761-8d02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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