Tracy Darlene Paulenko – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Tracy Darlene Paulenko is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Centre in Toronto, ON, Tracy D Paulenko is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Tracy D Paulenko's role involves 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 D Paulenko serves a diverse range of patients, tailoring treatment plans to meet individual needs and goals.

Tracy Darlene Paulenko completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Toronto (Graduating Class of 1998). With extensive clinical experience, Tracy D Paulenko is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Tracy D Paulenko has a particular interest and further training in areas such as General Physiotherapy Practice and general physiotherapy.

Tracy D Paulenko's practice philosophy centers on a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Tracy D Paulenko adopts a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Tracy D Paulenko offers consultations in English.

Tracy Darlene Paulenko 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): Conditions like 'jumper's knee' (patellar tendinopathy), 'swimmer's shoulder' (rotator cuff tendinopathy), or 'tennis elbow' (lateral epicondylitis) caused by tendon issues that limit your ability to perform specific tasks.
• 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.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Hip problems that interfere with your mobility, sleep, and daily comfort, which can be effectively managed with physiotherapy interventions.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Common back problems that can impact your posture, ability to perform daily activities, and overall mobility, addressed with targeted physiotherapy.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Damage to the body's movement system, including issues like joint inflammation, ligament tears, or muscle overstretching, often requiring physiotherapy for optimal recovery.

Back Neck Pain

• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Symptoms of nerve compression originating from the spine, such as a 'slipped disc' or 'pinched nerve', causing radiating pain, altered sensation, or muscle weakness in a limb.
• 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.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Muscular pain, trigger points, and tension headaches resulting from habitual poor posture, which can be addressed with postural re-education, exercises, and ergonomic advice.

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 D Paulenko can assess your needs.

• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Manual treatments specifically designed to improve joint mechanics, alleviate discomfort, reduce stiffness, and enhance your range of motion in the spine or limbs.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: Detailed physical assessment of your joints, muscles, nerves, and movement patterns to identify the root cause of your symptoms and guide your treatment.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Providing clear guidance on self-care techniques, activity modifications, and beneficial lifestyle adjustments for long-term well-being and injury prevention.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Evaluation of your body's basic movements (like squatting, lunging, reaching) to highlight areas for improvement in stability, mobility, and motor control.
• 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: Hands-on treatment focusing on your body's soft tissues to restore pliability, reduce discomfort, and optimize movement quality.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Tracy D Paulenko, 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 Rehabilitation Institute - University Centre, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Tracy D Paulenko frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• When my child complaining of 'growing pains' that keep them up at night is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing walking up and down several flights of stairs without issue or breathlessness, physiotherapy with Tracy D Paulenko can help you work towards improved coordination for complex movements and fine motor tasks. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• Many find that trying to stay as mobile and active as possible while living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) significantly impacts their ability to easily carrying groceries in from the car in one or two trips. Tracy D Paulenko helps patients target improved overall mobility, making it easier to navigate their home and community with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Tracy D Paulenko can help you move beyond trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury. The focus is on a feeling of being 'unstuck' and more supple, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as participating fully in their martial arts practice, including sparring.
• Tracy D Paulenko frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of facial weakness or drooping on one side (like Bell's Palsy). A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets getting back to hiking, running, or cycling pain-free and with renewed vigor and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like dancing the night away at social events and family celebrations.

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

Tracy D Paulenko practices at Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Centre, situated in the Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Toronto City Hall and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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. Always check your private/extended health insurance plan, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics. Verify your specific eligibility for any public coverage directly with the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

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.

Does Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Centre offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

While we do not offer direct billing at this time, we provide detailed official receipts that you can easily submit to your insurer for reimbursement according to your plan. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. Always confirm your specific coverage details, including any annual maximums, per-visit limits, or deductible requirements, directly with your insurance provider, as plans vary significantly. You are responsible for any portion not covered by your insurance.

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.

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 of physiotherapy services. Check your individual insurance policy before your first appointment.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

The number of physiotherapy sessions required varies greatly from person to person. It depends on several factors, including the nature and severity of your condition, how long you've had the issue (acute vs. chronic), your individual treatment goals, your body's unique response to therapy, and how consistently you are able to follow your prescribed home exercise program and self-management advice. Your Physiotherapist will discuss a proposed treatment frequency and estimated duration after your initial assessment and will continually re-evaluate your progress with you.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Centre treat?

Our Physiotherapists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. This includes, but is not limited to, issues like back and neck pain, joint problems (such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery), sports injuries, and nerve pain. We also have therapists with specialized skills in areas like General Physiotherapy Practice and general physiotherapy. Our treatments often involve manual therapy, Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment, and patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.

Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Centre
550 University Ave.
Toronto, ON, M5G 2A2

Phone: (416) 597-3422

Tracy Darlene Paulenko 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: XXX57

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=1eeabf42-8c02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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