Wendy A. Gold-Basch – Physiotherapist | Toronto, ON

Wendy A. Gold-Basch is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Humber River Hospital in Toronto, ON, Wendy Gold-Basch is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Wendy Gold-Basch'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. Wendy Gold-Basch serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Wendy A. Gold-Basch completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McGill University (Graduating Class of 1983). With extensive clinical experience, Wendy Gold-Basch is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Wendy Gold-Basch has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Wendy Gold-Basch employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Wendy Gold-Basch has a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care, and promotes preventative care and long-term wellness for the Toronto community through proactive physiotherapy. Wendy Gold-Basch offers consultations in English.

Wendy A. Gold-Basch provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Arthritis

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Tailored exercise programs (including range of motion, strengthening, and low-impact aerobic exercises), pain relief modalities, and education on joint protection techniques and energy conservation for individuals with RA or similar conditions.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Individualized exercise programs and pain management strategies tailored for psoriatic arthritis to help reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Exercises and advice to manage the impact of gout on your joints, improve mobility, and reduce the likelihood of long-term joint damage.

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.
• 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.
• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Post-traumatic neck pain, restricted movement, and associated issues common after car accidents, which benefit from early and appropriate physiotherapy intervention.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Back or neck pain accompanied by associated limb symptoms (pain, sensory changes, weakness) due to a constricted spinal canal, which physiotherapy can help manage conservatively.

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. Wendy Gold-Basch can assess your needs.

• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): The application of cold packs, ice massage, or other cold modalities by your Physiotherapist to reduce swelling, inflammation, muscle spasm, and acute pain, particularly after an injury.
• 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): ESWT for chronic tendinopathies, heel spurs, and other musculoskeletal problems, aiming to break down scar tissue, increase blood flow, and trigger a healing response.
• 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.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: A comforting physiotherapy modality that helps to soothe tight muscles, decrease pain perception, and improve the flexibility of soft tissues.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Wendy Gold-Basch, 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 Humber River Hospital, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Wendy Gold-Basch frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• It's truly rewarding for Wendy Gold-Basch to witness patients conquer persistent dizziness that isn't a spinning vertigo but makes me feel unsteady and experience feeling more like their 'old self' before their injury or condition began. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in painting or drawing for longer stretches without neck or shoulder ache again.
• Patients often come to Wendy Gold-Basch feeling defeated by widespread muscle pain and fatigue that my doctor thinks might be fibromyalgia. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving resuming gardening, hobbies, or household tasks without strain or discomfort and resuming simply enjoying leisurely daily walks around their neighborhood for fresh air becomes a realistic and attainable goal.
• Living with numbness, tingling, or weakness in my hands, arms, feet, or legs doesn't have to be your norm. Wendy Gold-Basch applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards getting their strength back after surgery or a period of inactivity, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of actively participating in family outings and vacations without holding others back.
• Physiotherapy with Wendy Gold-Basch can be a transformative turning point for those affected by frequent headaches that seem to start from tension in my neck or shoulders. The shared goal is achieving implementing practical strategies to avoid re-injury during work or daily life, paving the way for you to enjoy driving for longer periods without neck or back pain and a more active, vibrant life.

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

Wendy Gold-Basch practices at Humber River Hospital, situated in the Downsview Central neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near the Ontario Legislative Building and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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 Ontarians. 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.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial and integral 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.

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?

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 Humber River Hospital or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

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.

How can I book an appointment at Humber River Hospital?

You can book an appointment by calling the clinic directly at (416) 242-1000 during business hours. The friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable appointment time with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

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.

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. Contact your insurer before your first appointment to understand your plan details (annual maximum, per-visit limits, co-payments, referral requirements, and direct billing options). Humber River Hospital may offer direct billing; if so, they can bill your insurer directly for the covered portion. You would be responsible for any co-payment or remaining balance. Bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. If direct billing isn't possible, you will receive an official receipt to submit to your insurer.

Humber River Hospital
1235 Wilson Ave.
Toronto, ON, M3M 0B2

Phone: (416) 242-1000

Wendy A. Gold-Basch 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: XXX35

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=262f73c9-8902-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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