Wendy Gayle Hancock – Physiotherapist | Burlington, ON

Wendy Gayle Hancock is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Pelvic Health Focus). Practicing at Fit For Life Physiotherapy in Burlington, ON, Wendy is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Wendy provides specialized assessment and treatment for conditions related to the pelvic floor and surrounding region for all genders. This includes issues such as incontinence, pelvic pain, pelvic organ prolapse, sexual dysfunction, and pre/post-natal concerns. Wendy serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Wendy Gayle Hancock completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 2004). With extensive clinical experience, Wendy is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Wendy has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Pelvic Health Physiotherapy.

Wendy's practice philosophy centers on empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Wendy adopts a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Wendy offers consultations in English.

Wendy Gayle Hancock provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Pregnancy Postpartum

• C-Section Scar Management and Abdominal Recovery: Supporting optimal healing and restoring core and abdominal function following a Caesarean delivery, addressing issues like scar tightness, numbness, or a feeling of disconnection.
• Postpartum Pelvic Floor Dysfunction (e.g., Incontinence, Pain, Prolapse): Helping new mothers recover optimal pelvic floor function, manage pain, and safely return to exercise and daily activities in the postpartum period.
• Diastasis Recti (Abdominal Muscle Separation) Assessment & Rehabilitation: Assessment and targeted exercise programs prescribed by a Physiotherapist to help manage and improve abdominal muscle separation postpartum, focusing on deep core muscle activation, safe movement strategies, and gradual progression.
• Pregnancy-Related Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP) / Low Back Pain / Sciatica: Musculoskeletal pain commonly experienced during pregnancy affecting the sacroiliac (SI) joints, pubic symphysis (SPD), low back, hips, or causing sciatica-like radiating leg pain due to hormonal changes, increased load, and altered biomechanics.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Discomfort felt around the shoulder blade, at the top of the shoulder, or radiating down the arm, making simple tasks challenging.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Common injuries related to physical activity, sports participation, accidental falls, or overuse from daily or work-related tasks.

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 can assess your needs.

• Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy (Assessment & Treatment - Internal exams where authorized/applicable and with consent): Specialized assessment and treatment by a trained Pelvic Health Physiotherapist for conditions affecting the pelvic floor muscles in men and women, such as urinary/fecal incontinence, pelvic pain (e.g., chronic pelvic pain, endometriosis-related pain, prostatitis symptoms), pelvic organ prolapse, and sexual dysfunction. May include internal examination with your informed consent where appropriate and authorized.
• Perineal & Pelvic Pain Rehabilitation: Holistic physiotherapy care for dysfunctions of the perineal and pelvic region, including chronic pelvic pain syndromes, pain after childbirth (e.g., perineal tears, episiotomy), post-surgical recovery (e.g., prostatectomy, hysterectomy, endometriosis surgery), and issues related to bowel/bladder function or sexual pain (dyspareunia, vaginismus).
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A complete assessment of your musculoskeletal system to pinpoint issues, set clear rehabilitation goals, and get you started on the path to recovery.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Education on optimal body mechanics and corrective strategies to improve your posture during daily activities, work, and recreation.
• Biofeedback for Pelvic Floor Muscle Retraining: Using specialized electronic monitoring devices (biofeedback) to help you gain better awareness and voluntary control over your pelvic floor muscle activity (contraction, relaxation, endurance).
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Identifying inefficient or compensatory movement patterns that could be contributing to your pain or hindering your physical performance.

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

• Wendy frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of that 'pins and needles' feeling that won't go away. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets enjoying cycling or swimming regularly without pain or limitation and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like getting on and off the floor with ease.
• With Wendy's help, managing a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns) to achieve a smooth and confident transition back to their work duties becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty.
• Patients struggling with recovering from a painful and limiting work-related injury (WCB/CNESST/WorkSafe claim) can find dedicated and compassionate support from Wendy. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving resuming gardening, hobbies, or household tasks without strain or discomfort, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as participating in community events and social gatherings more actively.
• It's truly rewarding for Wendy to witness patients conquer swelling in my arm or leg, possibly lymphedema, after surgery or treatment and experience building the necessary muscle support for their joints, reducing the risk of re-injury. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in feeling energetic enough to engage in social activities in the evenings again.

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

Wendy practices at Fit For Life Physiotherapy, located in the Tyandaga, Aldershot North neighborhood of Burlington. The clinic is conveniently located near Aldershot Village and is accessible via Burlington Transit. Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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.

What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows the Physiotherapist to easily access and assess the area being treated, and permits you to move freely for any exercises or movements. For example, shorts are ideal for knee, hip, or ankle issues, while a tank top or loose t-shirt works well for shoulder, neck, or upper back problems. Athletic wear or gym attire is generally a good choice. You may also be provided with a gown if needed.

What are Fit For Life Physiotherapy's operating hours?

Fit For Life Physiotherapy is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and some practitioners offer Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. However, hours can vary by practitioner and day, so please call the clinic or check their website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

Your initial physiotherapy appointment is a comprehensive assessment. Your Physiotherapist will start by discussing your medical history, the details of your current symptoms or injury, your concerns, and what you hope to achieve with physiotherapy (your functional goals). This is followed by a thorough physical examination, which may include evaluating your range of motion, strength, posture, balance, and specific movement patterns, as well as performing special tests relevant to your condition. Based on these findings, your therapist will provide a clinical impression or diagnosis, discuss a personalized treatment plan with you, and often begin some initial treatment or provide education and a home exercise program to get you started.

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.

Fit For Life Physiotherapy
4 - 18 Plains Road West
Burlington, ON, L7T 0B3

Phone: (905) 333-3488

Wendy Gayle Hancock 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: XXX32

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=3dd34af1-8d02-e811-813c-480fcff44541

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