Suzanne Olivia Dales-Murray – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Suzanne Olivia Dales-Murray is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Toronto District School Board in Toronto, ON, Suzanne Dales- Murray is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Suzanne Dales- Murray'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. Suzanne Dales- Murray also provides specialized physiotherapy services for infants, children, and adolescents to address developmental delays, congenital conditions (like torticollis), orthopedic injuries, neurological conditions, and promote optimal motor function and participation.

Suzanne Olivia Dales-Murray completed their degree in Physiotherapy from King's College London (Graduating Class of 1994). With extensive clinical experience, Suzanne Dales- Murray is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Suzanne Dales- Murray has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Pediatric Physiotherapy and Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Suzanne Dales- Murray employs a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Suzanne Dales- Murray empowers patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results; promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Toronto community through proactive physiotherapy. Suzanne Dales- Murray offers consultations in English.

Suzanne Olivia Dales-Murray provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Developmental

• Coordination Challenges / Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) - Supportive Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy to help improve motor skills, balance, coordination, motor planning, and functional task performance for children with DCD or general coordination difficulties, often using a task-oriented or motor learning approach.

Arthritis

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Physiotherapy as an important part of a multidisciplinary team approach to managing rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory joint conditions (e.g., ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis), helping to minimize disease impact and maximize quality of life.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Supportive physiotherapy care for joint recovery and function after gout flares, focusing on restoring range of motion, reducing inflammation, and providing advice on joint protection and lifestyle factors.

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. Suzanne Dales- Murray can assess your needs.

• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Identifying inefficient or compensatory movement patterns that could be contributing to your pain or hindering your physical performance.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Educating you about your diagnosis, expected recovery timeline (prognosis), and the reasons behind your treatment plan to encourage active participation in your healing.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A thorough evaluation by your Physiotherapist to accurately diagnose movement dysfunctions, injuries, and the underlying sources of your pain.
• Pediatric Physiotherapy (Infants, Children & Adolescents): Play-based therapy and age-appropriate exercises designed by a Pediatric Physiotherapist to help children achieve their optimal physical potential, improve motor skills, coordination, strength, balance, and participation in daily activities, school, and play.
• Congenital Muscular Torticollis & Plagiocephaly (Flat Head) Treatment: Early intervention physiotherapy crucial for correcting infant neck posture, promoting symmetrical head and neck movement, and improving head shape, often preventing the need for helmet therapy or more invasive measures.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Detailed analysis of your static and dynamic posture, with tailored exercises, stretches, and advice to help you improve alignment and reduce strain on your body.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Suzanne Dales- Murray, 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 Toronto District School Board, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Suzanne Dales- Murray frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• At Suzanne Dales- Murray's physiotherapy practice, individuals with my child walking on their toes most of the time are guided towards feeling more stable and confident on their feet, especially on uneven surfaces. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as participating in light recreational activities like bowling or mini-golf.
• The journey to a return to intimacy without the fear of pain or discomfort when faced with persistent awful foot pain first thing in the morning, like I'm walking on glass (plantar fasciitis) is made smoother and more effective with Suzanne Dales- Murray's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like dancing the night away at social events and family celebrations.
• Many find that working on getting back to normal after a fracture or other surgery significantly impacts their ability to competing effectively in their curling league games. Suzanne Dales- Murray helps patients target feeling more like their 'old self' before their injury or condition began with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• If post-operative stiffness and weakness that's slowing down my recovery is preventing you from fully enjoying joining in on pickup basketball games at the local court, Suzanne Dales- Murray offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining reduced muscle tension and a feeling of greater physical ease, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.

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

Suzanne Dales- Murray's practice at Toronto District School Board is situated in the Runnymede, The Junction North neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Royal Alexandra Theatre and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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

To make your first appointment as smooth and productive as possible, please consider bringing: your health card, any doctor's referral letter (if applicable), results or reports of any imaging tests (X-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs) related to your current condition, a list of any medications you are currently taking, and your extended health benefits information (insurance card/policy number) for direct billing if available at our clinic. Wearing comfortable clothes is also a good idea.

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 or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement of physiotherapy services. It is strongly recommended that you check with your insurance provider to understand their specific requirements before your first appointment.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your first physiotherapy appointment, which includes a detailed assessment and the development of your initial treatment plan, usually takes about 60 minutes. Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled for 30 to 45 minutes. The exact duration of each session will depend on the nature of your treatment and what your Physiotherapist has planned for that specific visit to best help you progress.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

Physiotherapy should not be painful. While you might feel some discomfort or a stretching sensation as you work to regain movement or strength, especially in the initial stages of treatment, it should not be distressing or harmful. Your Physiotherapist will guide you through each step, modify treatments to suit your comfort and tolerance, and ensure that the overall experience is positive. The ultimate aim is to make you feel better, not worse.

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

OHIP generally does NOT cover physiotherapy services in private outpatient clinics. 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's essential to check your private insurance coverage, as many plans offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

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.

What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

Comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement is best for your physiotherapy appointment – think about what you might wear to a gym or for light exercise. If you're being treated for a lower-body issue (like hip or knee pain), shorts are very helpful. For upper-body issues (like shoulder or neck pain), a tank top or loose t-shirt is suitable so the Physiotherapist can properly examine and treat the area.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

The first physiotherapy session is primarily an in-depth assessment. Expect to spend time talking with your Physiotherapist about your specific issue, its history, and your overall health background. Your therapist will then perform various physical tests to assess your movement, strength, and any areas of concern. The main goal of this first visit is to understand your condition fully so that a tailored and effective treatment plan can be developed collaboratively with you. You might also receive your first set of home exercises or some initial hands-on care to start the healing process.

Toronto District School Board
2 Trethewey Drive, 4th Floor
Toronto, ON, M6N 4A8

Phone: (416) 951-5085

Suzanne Olivia Dales-Murray 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: XXX68

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=93d57f56-9102-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

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