Sushma Kulkarni – Physiotherapist | Guelph, ON

Sushma Kulkarni is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Westwood Physiotherapy and Wellness in Guelph, ON, Sushma Kulkarni is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Sushma Kulkarni's role involves 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. Sushma Kulkarni serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Sushma Kulkarni completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (Graduating Class of 2020). With clinical experience, Sushma Kulkarni is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Sushma Kulkarni has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Sushma Kulkarni's practice philosophy centers around 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; a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Sushma Kulkarni offers consultations in English, Hindi, Kannada.

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

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Commonly known as 'wear-and-tear' arthritis, this condition affects various joints, often worsening with age, overuse, or previous injury, and can significantly impact daily function.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Persistent tendon pain that can interfere with your sports, work, or daily activities, often requiring specific loading programs and advice from a physiotherapist for effective management.

Arthritis

• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Supportive physiotherapy for individuals with psoriatic arthritis, focusing on managing joint pain and swelling, maintaining range of motion and strength, improving function, and providing advice on activity modification and joint protection.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Physiotherapy for ankylosing spondylitis focuses on maintaining spinal mobility and flexibility (especially extension), improving posture, strengthening core and back muscles, managing pain, and providing education on self-management and regular exercise.
• 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.

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. Sushma Kulkarni can assess your needs.

• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Targeted exercises focused on strengthening the deep abdominal, back, pelvic floor, and diaphragm muscles to provide better support for your spine, improve posture, enhance balance, and increase movement efficiency.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Comprehensive exercise plans developed by your Physiotherapist to combat deconditioning, enhance overall physical well-being, and promote an active lifestyle.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Active patient participation through guided, gentle muscle contractions to restore normal joint play, reduce muscle guarding, and improve tissue length.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Application of skilled soft tissue techniques to manage pain, stiffness, and improve function in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Specific stretches designed by your therapist to target tight muscle groups relevant to your condition, helping to improve your flexibility and reduce your risk of injury.
• 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.

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

• Struggling with the frustration of needing help to get moving again after a long period of illness or inactivity? Sushma Kulkarni develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving improved circulation and tissue healing. This is key to helping you get back to doing taking group exercise classes at the community center with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• Don't let pain in my shins when I try to run or be active (shin splints) dictate what you can and cannot do. Sushma Kulkarni offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at a smoother and stronger postpartum recovery, helping you reclaim getting in and out of the car smoothly and without wincing and enjoy a more functional life.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of experiencing discomfort, back pain, or pelvic girdle pain during or after pregnancy? Sushma Kulkarni works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of learning specific exercises that provide ongoing relief and maintain their progress. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as participating in water aerobics or other pool-based exercises.
• The journey to achieving personal fitness goals that once seemed out of reach when faced with persistent trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury is made smoother and more effective with Sushma Kulkarni's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like walking their children to school or the park.

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

Sushma Kulkarni practices at Westwood Physiotherapy and Wellness, situated in the Downtown Guelph, Exhibition Park neighborhood of Guelph. The clinic is conveniently located near Sleeman Centre (Arena) and is accessible via Guelph Transit. Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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

In Ontario, you can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a doctor's referral. This is known as direct access. However, some private health insurance plans may require a referral for coverage, so check your policy before your appointment.

What are Westwood Physiotherapy and Wellness's operating hours?

Westwood Physiotherapy and Wellness is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Some practitioners may offer Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. However, hours can vary, so please call the clinic or check their website for the most up-to-date information.

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

Many private insurance plans cover physiotherapy. Contact your insurer before your appointment to understand your coverage: annual maximum, per-visit limits, co-payments, referral requirements, and direct billing options. If Westwood Physiotherapy and Wellness offers direct billing and your plan allows it, they can bill your insurer. Otherwise, you'll receive a receipt to submit for reimbursement.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your first visit, Sushma Kulkarni will conduct a thorough evaluation, including a discussion of your symptoms, medical history, and goals. A physical assessment will follow, and then Sushma Kulkarni will explain their findings, create a treatment plan with you, and provide initial treatment.

Is physiotherapy covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

OHIP generally does not cover physiotherapy in private clinics. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available in specific situations (e.g., post-hospitalization), but eligibility is limited. Check your private insurance for coverage; many plans offer significant benefits for physiotherapy.

Westwood Physiotherapy and Wellness
Unit #12, 530 Willow Road
Guelph, ON, N1H 7G4

Phone: (519) 341-5161

Sushma Kulkarni 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: XXX31

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=a879406d-ed62-ee11-8df0-000d3a09c756

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