Tara Sandra Petitclerc – Physiotherapist | Sudbury, ON

Tara Sandra Petitclerc is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Resident Physiotherapist). Practicing at Summit Physiotherapy and Performance in Sudbury, ON, Tara is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Tara's approach focuses on 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. Tara serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Tara Sandra Petitclerc completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Ottawa (Graduating Class of 2024). With clinical experience, Tara Sandra Petitclerc is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Tara Sandra Petitclerc has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Tara's practice philosophy centers on empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results; promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Sudbury community through proactive physiotherapy; and a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Tara Sandra Petitclerc offers consultations in English, French.

Tara Sandra Petitclerc provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Hand Wrist

• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Specialized physiotherapy for conditions affecting the intricate structures of the hand and wrist, such as fractures (e.g., Colles', scaphoid), tendon lacerations or ruptures (e.g., flexor/extensor tendon repairs), ligament sprains/tears (e.g., skier's thumb, TFCC injuries), repetitive strain injuries, or arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis). Includes both conservative management and post-operative rehabilitation.
• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Addressing the inflammation, pain, and restricted movement associated with stenosing tenosynovitis of the finger or thumb.

Back Neck Pain

• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Pain and muscle tension related to ergonomic factors at work or home, muscle imbalances, and suboptimal body mechanics or movement habits.
• 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).

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. Tara can assess your needs.

• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): A common physiotherapy treatment for acute injuries, designed to help numb pain, decrease bleeding into the tissues, and minimize secondary hypoxic injury.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Employing different types of electrotherapy to support your rehabilitation goals, including promoting tissue healing or improving motor control.
• 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.
• 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.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: The application of specific wavelengths of light energy (cold laser) by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and accelerate tissue repair and regeneration at a cellular level.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: Superficial heat application carefully monitored by your therapist to promote relaxation, pain relief, and enhance the effectiveness of other treatments.

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

• At Tara's physiotherapy practice, individuals with an old ankle sprain that never seems to fully heal and still feels weak are guided towards greater confidence when walking, standing, or navigating challenging environments. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as tackling home renovation and DIY projects with confidence.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Tara's clinic, common concerns like that persistent ache in my lower back that just won't quit are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of improved coordination for complex movements and fine motor tasks. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like being able to carry their baby or toddler without straining their back or arms.
• Tara frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of general muscle strains and pulls from overdoing it at the gym or in the garden. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets greater ease in performing overhead activities or reaching and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like enjoying long, challenging hikes on weekends again.
• If clicking, popping, or pain in my jaw (TMJ issues) when I eat or talk is preventing you from fully enjoying going on enjoyable fishing or camping trips again, Tara offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining waking up feeling more refreshed with considerably less pain and stiffness, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.

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

Tara practices at Summit Physiotherapy and Performance, situated in the Downtown Sudbury, Minnow Lake, Ramsey Lake Area neighborhood of Sudbury. The clinic is conveniently located near Mackey Building (City Hall Annex) and is accessible via GOVA Transit (Greater Sudbury Transit). 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 Summit Physiotherapy and Performance 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 is Summit Physiotherapy and Performance'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 (or one business day) 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 (no-shows) without sufficient notice. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your 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 Summit Physiotherapy and Performance or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

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 *do* require one for reimbursement of physiotherapy services. Check your individual insurance policy before your first appointment.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial component of most physiotherapy treatment plans. Your Physiotherapist will prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals. These exercises are designed to complement your in-clinic treatment, help you manage your symptoms effectively between sessions, accelerate your recovery, and empower you with tools for long-term self-management. Your active participation in your home program is key for optimal results.

Summit Physiotherapy and Performance
115 - 1984 Regent Street
Sudbury, ON, P3E 5S1

Phone: (705) 988-0945

Tara Sandra Petitclerc 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: XXX58

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=2db4d418-c66e-ef11-a671-6045bd5d248c

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