Tracy Allison Blake – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Tracy Allison Blake is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at University of Toronto, Department of Kinesiology & Physical Education in Toronto, ON, Tracy Blake is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Tracy Blake's focus is 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. Tracy Blake serves a diverse range of patients.

Tracy Allison Blake completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 2004). With extensive clinical experience, Tracy Blake is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Tracy Blake has a particular interest and further training in areas such as General Physiotherapy Practice and general physiotherapy.

Tracy Blake'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. Tracy Blake offers consultations in English.

Tracy Allison Blake provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Back Neck Pain

• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Often age-related changes leading to pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots, causing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs with walking (neurogenic claudication in lumbar stenosis) or in the arms/hands (cervical stenosis).
• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Neck, shoulder, and upper back discomfort, often accompanied by headaches or 'brain fog', after a sudden jerking motion of the head, such as in a rear-end collision.

Sports Injury

• IT Band Syndrome (Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome): Pain, typically sharp or burning, located on the outside (lateral aspect) of the knee, or sometimes the hip. Common in runners, cyclists, and other endurance athletes, caused by irritation or inflammation of the iliotibial (IT) band as it rubs over bony prominences.
• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee / Anterior Knee Pain): Knee discomfort frequently experienced by runners, cyclists, and those involved in activities with repetitive knee bending, which physiotherapy can effectively manage through exercise and biomechanical correction.
• Ligament Sprains (e.g., ACL, MCL, PCL, Ankle Ligaments): Injuries like a 'twisted ankle', 'knee ligament injury', or 'shoulder separation' (AC joint sprain) sustained during athletic activity or accidental falls.
• Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome): Inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue (periosteum) around the tibia, which requires rest, activity modification, and specific physiotherapy interventions for recovery.

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. Tracy Blake can assess your needs.

• Therapeutic Heat Application: Superficial heat application carefully monitored by your therapist to promote relaxation, pain relief, and enhance the effectiveness of other treatments.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Using therapeutic cold to manage the initial stages of an injury (e.g., sprains, strains) and control inflammatory responses, helping to limit tissue damage.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: A non-invasive light therapy used in physiotherapy to treat various musculoskeletal conditions, promote faster healing, reduce pain, and modulate inflammation without generating heat.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Tracy Blake, 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 University of Toronto, Department of Kinesiology & Physical Education, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Tracy Blake frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• If sharp pain shooting down my leg, feeling a lot like sciatica is preventing you from fully enjoying going on enjoyable fishing or camping trips again, Tracy Blake offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining more comfortable and efficient movement when transitioning between positions (e.g., sit to stand), often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• Patients struggling with an awkward gait or limping when I walk can find dedicated and compassionate support from Tracy Blake. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving less reliance on pain medication, trusting more in their body's ability to heal and function, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as playing in their competitive volleyball league again.
• The journey to a smooth and confident transition back to their work duties when faced with persistent widespread muscle pain and fatigue that my doctor thinks might be fibromyalgia is made smoother and more effective with Tracy Blake's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like handling their job that involves frequent standing, walking, or bending.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of difficulty coordinating my movements, feeling clumsy? Tracy Blake works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of effectively managing chronic pain and reclaiming an active lifestyle. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as comfortably cooking and meal prepping for their family.

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

Tracy Blake's practice is located at the University of Toronto, Department of Kinesiology & Physical Education, situated in the University of Toronto, Harbord neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Princess of Wales Theatre and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Please inquire regarding specific accessibility needs for our clinic. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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/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.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy, delivered by a qualified Physiotherapist, is a science-based profession that focuses on restoring movement and function when someone is affected by injury, illness, or disability. It can also help to reduce your risk of future problems. Your physiotherapist will use techniques such as therapeutic exercise, manual therapy (hands-on treatment), education, and advice, empowering you to manage your health independently and achieve your physical goals.

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 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 for any publicly funded programs or simply for identification), any relevant medical information such as a doctor's referral note (if you have one), reports from recent imaging (like X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound scans), 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.

Is there parking available at or near University of Toronto, Department of Kinesiology & Physical Education?

Paid parking is available in the parkade adjacent to the building. Limited free street parking may also be found in the vicinity, but please check local signage for restrictions.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your first visit, the Physiotherapist will conduct a detailed evaluation to get a full picture of your condition. This usually involves a thorough discussion about your symptoms, how they impact your daily life, any relevant medical history, and your personal goals for therapy. A physical assessment will then be performed to help pinpoint the cause of your problem and assess your physical capabilities. Afterwards, your therapist will explain their findings, collaborate with you to set treatment goals, and outline a proposed plan of care. You'll likely receive some initial advice, exercises, or hands-on treatment to begin your recovery journey.

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/extended health insurance plan, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

University of Toronto, Department of Kinesiology & Physical Education
100 Devonshire Pl
Toronto, ON, M5S 2C9

Phone: (416) 978-3436

Tracy Allison Blake 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: XXX53

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=de82890b-8e02-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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