Tracey Baruch – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Tracey Baruch is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario in Toronto, ON, Tracey Baruch is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Tracey Baruch focuses on 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. Tracey Baruch serves a diverse range of patients.

Tracey Baruch completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Western University (Graduating Class of 1994). With extensive clinical experience, Tracey Baruch is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Tracey Baruch has a particular interest and further training in areas such as General Physiotherapy Practice and general physiotherapy.

Tracey Baruch's practice philosophy centers on a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Tracey Baruch offers consultations in English.

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

Joint Pain

• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Inflammation (tendinitis) or, more commonly, degeneration (tendinosis/tendinopathy) of tendons, leading to localized pain that typically worsens with activity or loading of the tendon.
• 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.

Back Neck Pain

• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): A range of neck and related symptoms including pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and sometimes arm pain or cognitive difficulties, following a rapid acceleration-deceleration injury to the neck, most typically from a motor vehicle accident.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Nerve compression symptoms due to a narrowing (stenosis) of the spinal canal or the small openings where nerves exit the spine (foramina), most commonly in the lumbar (lower back) or cervical (neck) regions.
• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Back or neck pain that often radiates into an arm or leg, potentially with numbness, tingling, weakness, or burning sensations, due to a spinal disc problem (herniation, protrusion, or bulge) compressing or irritating a nearby nerve root (radiculopathy). Sciatica specifically refers to radicular pain down the leg.

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. Tracey Baruch can assess your needs.

• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Cold therapy techniques applied by your therapist to effectively alleviate acute pain, reduce inflammation, and manage muscle soreness or spasm.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: The application of high-frequency sound waves by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to promote deep tissue heating, increase local blood flow, reduce pain, and facilitate the healing process in soft tissues like muscles, tendons, or ligaments.
• 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.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: Utilizing therapeutic laser to enhance tissue regeneration, reduce pain signals, and manage inflammation as part of your comprehensive physiotherapy care.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: A comforting physiotherapy modality that helps to soothe tight muscles, decrease pain perception, and improve the flexibility of soft tissues.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Application of various forms of electrical stimulation, such as Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) for muscle strengthening and re-education, or Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) to assist with movement, as prescribed by your Physiotherapist.

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

• Living with recovering from a concussion and dealing with lingering symptoms like dizziness or headaches doesn't have to be your norm. Tracey Baruch applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards a return to intimacy without the fear of pain or discomfort, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of participating in light recreational activities like bowling or mini-golf.
• When feeling unsteady on my feet or experiencing dizziness and balance problems is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing managing their personal care routines independently, physiotherapy with Tracey Baruch can help you work towards restoring normal movement patterns essential for everyday tasks. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• For those whose post-operative stiffness and weakness that's slowing down my recovery has made managing shopping trips and carrying bags without excessive fatigue or pain seem like a distant memory, Tracey Baruch's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward getting back to hiking, running, or cycling pain-free and with renewed vigor. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to managing shopping trips and carrying bags without excessive fatigue or pain with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• Are you finding that managing stiffness, tremors, and movement challenges with Parkinson's disease stops you from enjoying maintaining their balance and stability while walking on uneven ground or trails? Tracey Baruch is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve better managing flare-ups with personalized strategies and feeling more in control of their symptoms through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.

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

Tracey Baruch's practice is located at the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario, in the Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Roy Thomson Hall and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Initial assessment appointments are generally longer to allow for a thorough evaluation and discussion, typically lasting between 45 to 60 minutes. Subsequent follow-up treatment sessions are usually shorter, often ranging from 30 to 45 minutes. However, the duration can vary depending on your specific needs, the complexity of your condition, the type of treatment being provided, and the treatment plan designed by your Physiotherapist.

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.

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

It's helpful to bring your health card, any referral letters from other healthcare providers if you were referred, and any reports or images from relevant medical tests (X-rays, MRIs, etc.) related to your condition. If you have private insurance coverage for physiotherapy, please bring your insurance card or policy details for billing purposes. Comfortable attire that allows for easy movement during the assessment is also recommended.

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

Some temporary post-treatment soreness can be normal, much like after a good workout. However, if your pain significantly worsens, if you develop new concerning symptoms, or if the discomfort doesn't settle down within a day or two, please call us. Your Physiotherapist would want to know so they can offer guidance and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan. Open communication is key to your successful recovery.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes, absolutely! Physiotherapy plays a significant role in injury prevention and managing recurring pain. Your Physiotherapist can identify underlying risk factors such as muscle imbalances, poor movement patterns, postural issues, or biomechanical inefficiencies. By addressing these through targeted exercises, education on proper body mechanics, ergonomic advice, and activity modification, physiotherapy can help reduce your risk of initial injury, prevent re-injury, and manage chronic conditions more effectively, keeping you active and healthy.

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 private clinic coverage.

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.

College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario
80 College Street
Toronto, ON, M5G 2E2

Phone: (416) 967-2600

Tracey Baruch 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: XXX99

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=bd46995d-8b02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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